Blues Begin Pre-Season With A Draw

Margate started their 2019/20 campaign with a 1-1 draw at home to National League South side Welling United at Hartsdown Park.

The Blues gave starting debuts to all but one of their summer signings as Connor Wilkins missed the game, otherwise Manager Jay Saunders gave his new look side mixed with trialists a good test against a strong Welling United side looking to improve on last season’s National League South play-off defeat.

The Wings also used the fixture as an opportunity to bed in their new signings including former Gate utility player Nathan Green amongst trialists.

In an even first half both sides rarely troubled either goalkeeper until Connor Dymond headed the ‘Gate in front as the two sides headed into the break. Margate fans would have been impressed by their sides first half display especially that of new centre-back pair Ben Swift and Dan Johnson.

Margate remained relatively unchanged for the beginning of the second half, however Welling made several changes, including the introduction of new signing Rob Swaine who joined the club this summer after a spell at Billericay.

Margate soon made several changes giving several trialists a run out as they look to impress Saunders in the hope of being signed for the new season, however it was the visitors who drew level thanks to Rob Swaine’s header.

Neither side could find the winner despite a few chances being created and both sides went away happy with their first outing of the 2019/20 campaign.

Margate return to action on Saturday 13th July as they welcome Faversham Town to Hartsdown Park for their next pre-season friendly

Attendance: 239 .

Margate Squad V Welling United:

Jon Miles

Michael Abnett

Jay Porter

Connor Dymond

Ben Swift ©

Dan Johnson

Chris Sessegnon

Jordy Robins

Noel Leighton

Jack Richards

Adem Ramadan

E Harvey

R Head

J Oliver

G Ashley

I Bignall

R Lewis

Trialists

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