Tunbridge Wells Foresters (H) - 8th September 2024

By Steph Meek

Margate FC Women kick off their league campaign this afternoon in what promises to be a thrilling contest against Tunbridge Wells Foresters. 

Both sides will be eager to start their seasons strongly, following mixed results in last weekend's FA Cup action. Margate were narrowly defeated on penalties after a full-time draw against a side from a higher division, while the Foresters stormed through to the next round with an emphatic 10-1 victory.

Despite the contrasting FA Cup results, both teams know each other well and have a history of tightly contested matches. Last season, Foresters had the upper hand in the final league fixture, but Margate will take confidence from knocking their rivals out of the League Cup earlier in the season.

Margate are buoyed by the return of a full-strength squad, with captain Fleur Charman leading the team as they seek to claim their first three points of the season. Promotion is the goal for Margate, and a strong start will be crucial to building early momentum. On the other side, Foresters will be looking to carry their blistering FA Cup form into the league opener.

Manager Steph Meek said: “We've been working extremely hard over the last few months to build strength and depth in every position. Understanding roles and on pitch responsibilities and establishing team camaraderie.”

“I'm really pleased with how the players have adapted to the change in pre-season. We've asked much more of them, and they've delivered. I feel confident going into the league that we have the drive and capacity to push for promotion.”

“We cannot underestimate our opponents, however. They have come into this fixture off the back of a big win which shows they are on form and no doubt boosts their confidence ahead of this afternoon.”

“We're taking it one game at a time, and today is no different. All I ask from the players is that they give everything on the pitch. If we work hard and stay focused, the result will take care of itself.”

With both teams evenly matched in past encounters, this promises to be a closely fought battle. Expect high energy, fierce competition, and a game that could go down to the wire.

Kick-off is at 3pm at Hartsdown Park for any fans wishing to go and watch the Margate Women league opener!

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