U23's Put Three Points On The Board

By Paul Meade

Margate U23’s started their home games of the season entertaining Lordswood FC.

They were looking to bounce back from last weeks’ 2-0 away defeat at Deal Town and to continue from last season’s unbeaten home record.

The first half was a very even affair with both teams holding firm in defence with little scoring opportunities.

Lordswood should have scored in the 39th minute when a mix up in the Gate defence allowed opposition striker a free shot from eight yards but somehow, he dragged it wide of Blake Winters far post.

Despite some late half chances for The ‘Gate, the first half would end 0-0.

The second half became a much more positive attacking game with both teams striving for the opening goal.

Margate had the better of these and two fierce drives from Pitman and forced fine saves from the ‘keeper.

The ‘Gate should have taken the lead in the 68th minute when another great long-range effort from Mattas Kabelis could only be parried straight at Jude Buchanan, but his first time shot went over the bar.

Margate were beginning to dominate and the introduction of Reece Greig, Iman Alam, Danny Martin, Reuben Fagg, and Fabian De Oliveira all made a positive impact.

It was good link up play down the right that was played into Woody Pitman’s feet and his sharp left foot drive was drilled home on 72 mins for a well-deserved first goal.

This spurred on Lordswood who’s immediate response almost caught out young ‘Gate keeper Winters as a direct shot from kick off hit the bar.

The very lively and tricky Iman was causing problems down the left and his excellent run into the box on 82 mins ended with him being fouled leaving the ref in no doubt to award a penalty.

Loui Mirza stepped up and calmly sent the keeper the wrong way for Margate’s second.

Lordswood did think they had dragged themselves back into the game in the 88th minute but a fine one handed save by Winter pushed this effort around the post to keep a clean sheet and thoroughly deserved 2-0 win.

The young Margate side now entertain Chatham at home next Friday evening.

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