Daniel Enjoying Margate Spell

It has been a positive start to life at Hartsdown Park for loan signing Kadell Daniel.

The Dover Athletic attacker was Jay Saunders’ first recruit as Margate Manager and the 24-year-old has proven a vital addition already. 

Having scored his first goal for the club during Saturday's win at Brightlingsea Regent, Daniel followed this with his first goal at HDP, securing an important point against Carshalton Athletic.

Speaking after the 1-1 draw in the Bostik League, Daniel could not hide his delight after scoring in the dying minutes of the match.

“I was very happy and relieved with the goal on Tuesday evening, I just felt as a team we deserved something out of that game. Although we know we can play much better."

"Fortunately, I was in the right place at the right time to help keep our little unbeaten run going.”

A cool, instinctive finish and a brilliant back heel, Daniel talked through the finish that delighted Margate fans who stayed until the dying minutes to support their side.

“It was mentioned at half time that when crosses and balls were put in the box they were running through and there was no-one to keep it alive at the back post.”

“So, I just made sure I was there this time. The ball came to me with my back to goal and the quickest route to goal was a back heel.”

Carshalton’s defensive organisation and physicality made it quite the shift but overall, Daniel felt the hosts warranted a draw for their endeavours during the 90 minutes.

“They started very sharp and quick and maybe due to travel issues we were a bit slow to start, and they capatalised on that.”

“Overall, I feel we were in the game for large parts but we just lacked a bit of quality that we have had in past games.”

It will not surprise to supporters to note The Gate’s unbeaten run coincides with Daniels’ signing, and after weeks of improved displays, Daniel makes clear the focus for the squad is to build further momentum.

“We are all enjoying not losing and I think there is a real confidence every game that we can win. Defensively we are solid and going forward we are looking dangerous.”

As confidence breeds amongst the squad, for Daniel personally, it is proving an enjoyable experience at Margate.

“The most important thing is to enjoy my football, and when I have a smile on my face I play my best. I haven’t played much this season so to come to Margate, get valuable minutes and try to help keep Margate safe is a blessing. I thank Jay for the opportunity.”

“I am loving it here, I made a joke with a few of the boys in the car school that we haven’t lost whilst I been here. It was a close call on Tuesday but whilst I’m here I’m going to try my upmost to give it my all and keep it that way.”

Next up, to keep it that, is a tough trip to AFC Hornchurch and Daniel hopes to collect a positive result.

“I don’t know much about Hornchurch but I have all the belief that our team is strong enough in all areas to go there on Saturday and bring back all three points to Hartsdown Park.”

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