Oldham Athletic have fought back from two goals down to reach half time level with League One strugglers Gillingham.

The Gills needed a late show to beat Coventry City last time out, but made a fast start at the Priestfield as John Marquis picked up the ball and ran at the Oldham defence before his low strike found the bottom corner.

Marquis doubled his side's lead on 14 minutes when he capitalised on Brian Wilson's mistake in the heart of the Latics' back line before unleashing another low drive that keeper Paul Rachubka could keep out.

Oldham were given the chance to pull a goal back from the penalty spot moments later after Danny Philliskirk was bundled over in the area by Bradley Dack.

Philliskirk saw his 20th-minute spot kick saved by Stuart Nelson, but Liam Kelly was on hand to tuck home the rebound.

Within moments, the visitors were back on level terms when ex-Leeds United forward Dominic Poleon rifled a shot into the roof of Nelson's net.

Gillingham almost retook the lead on 32 minutes when Josh Pritchard's strike was saved by Rachubka.

Michael Jones then saw his own effort stopped by Nelson as the Latics tried to snatch a half-time advantage.