Hornchurch (H) - 29th October 2022

Margate return to Isthmian Premier Division action at Hartsdown Park on Saturday as they welcome high flying Hornchurch to Kent.

The Blues suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat away at Lewes last weekend, however a win last time out at Hartsdown Park against Canvey Island gives the ‘Gate hope against an in-form Hornchurch who currently sit 3rd in the league standings, however with three games in hand on teams above them.

Ironically, Lewes was also Hornchurch’s previous opposition after the two sides played out a 2-2 draw at the Dripping Pan on Tuesday evening, despite the ‘Urchins leading 2-0 at one stage.

Mark Stimson’s side have only lost twice in the league this season, their last league defeat coming at the end of August when they were beaten 2-1 by Canvey Island.

Margate will be able to call upon Sam Blackman again after he missed last weekend’s defeat through suspension, however Manager Andy Drury will be without Troy Howard (Ankle) and Harrison Hatfull (Dead leg), meanwhile Lewis Knight left to join Enfield Town on Friday for a one-month loan period.

Drury may hand new signing Ethan Kaiser his first start after being an unused substitute away at Lewes last weekend.

The Blues endured a miserable double against Hornchurch last season, losing both fixtures. A 2-1 defeat away in August was followed by a 3-0 home defeat at Hartsdown Park in January. Margate have to go back to March 2019 for their last win against the Essex side, when they won away 2-1, however you have to go back to March 2015 for our last win at home against the ‘Urchins as the Blues ran riot with a 5-1 win.

A reminder that the club is throwing a Halloween themed party in the Hartsdown Bar from 2pm with prizes for the best dressed, as well as other spooky games and activities, as well as face painting.

Kick-off at Hartsdown Park is 3pm, however the ground will be open from 12:30pm showing the Premier League fixture between Leicester and Manchester City.

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