Prestedge Enjoys Gate Debut

Handed the captain’s armband to help lead The Gate to victory against higher league opposition in the Emirates FA Cup; it was certainly a club debut to remember for Reece Prestedge.

The midfielder was chucked straight into the mix by Manager Jay Saunders, adding some experience to a Margate starting eleven that has been shaken up each week due to a run of injuries across the squad.

Speaking after Saturday’s 3-1 win against Concord Rangers, Prestedge admitted his opening game in a Margate shirt could not have gone much better.

“It is always great to get a win, especially against a higher opposition. The fact it was in the FA Cup too makes it a little bit more special.”

“The home crowd were brilliant too and the atmosphere was great for the whole game, it gave us that extra boost at times.”

Prestedge was handed the captaincy for the tie and thrived in the role dictating play from the middle of the park and added a layer of protection to a defensive back line, playing together for the first time.

“Jay asked me to captain the game on Thursday as Swifty was unavailable due to injury.”

“I have captained a few sides in my career, so it wasn’t new to me, but I was privileged to be handed the responsibility.” 

The Manager played an influential part in securing Prestedge’s services as he made the move from Vanarama National League South side, Welling United to Hartsdown Park.

“I spoke to Jay a few times because I wasn’t happy where I was and would always like to play under Jay again.”

“That was the main factor for making the move, the opportunity to play for a Manager who I’m used to and trust.” 

Prestedge added, “Jay’s record speaks for itself and he’s a very honest manager to play for.” 

With a couple of training sessions and his first 90 minutes with Margate under his belt, Prestedge believes he and his team-mates can push on and keep a good run of form going.

“After Saturday I think it proved that we can compete with top teams not just at this level but at the level above.”

“We are a young squad, but the players want to work hard and want to progress and that’s a good ethic to have.” 

Ahead of this weekend’s trip to Carshalton Athletic, Prestedge predicts a tough game but relishes the opportunity to help make September a winning month for the team.  

 “The win from Saturday will give us a lot more confidence and belief. We go into the game with three consecutive wins and I don’t see why we can’t make it four.”

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