Macaulay Bonne and Scott Malone both benefited from those errors from Dons players, firing the Kent side 2-0 up before Ellis Harrison headed in late on to set up a potentially enthralling finale.
But a red card in stoppage time for Daniel Harvie put paid to any late chances for Graham Alexander’s side.
Here’s how we rated the players at Priestfield.
6. Joe Tomlinson - 6
A busy first-half on the left, but was withdrawn at the break as Alexander threw attackers at the problem Photo: Jane Russell
7. Cameron Norman - 6
Always offered an option on the right flank, and was a part of some good moves going forward Photo: Pete Norton
8. MJ Williams - 5.5
Was one of the players who appeared to lost their heads after Gillingham began to put Dons under pressure. A few shaky moments but led the onfield inquests too Photo: Jane Russell