By Paul Meade
Margate returned to winning ways on Friday night at Hartsdown Park after two recent defeats had severely dented their chances of retaining the Southern Counties East League title.
It could have been an even worse evening as a rejuvenated and more determined Herne Bay had arrived to avenge Margate’s away win early in the season at Winches Field.
Despite The Bay dominating in the physical battles and playing many long balls for their attackers to run on to ,they were able to reduce their opposition to only one real strike on target which forced an excellent save by Blake Page. This enabled the young ‘Gate side to go into the break at half time all square.
HT 0-0
An extremely frustrated half-time team talk along with a reset by the coaching team and players, enabled everyone to identify some areas for improvement.
Margate immediately started the second half at their usual high pace and were rewarded as early as the 47th minute when a shot from Finley Saunders was guided in at the far post by Woody Pitman.
This definitely shocked The Bay and two minutes later and a great run and strike, by Pitman, was blocked at the near post by the ‘keeper.
Margate pressed relentlessly and got their rewards with their second goal in the 51st min after some fine pass and movement between Iman Alam and Reece Greig who’s cut back cross was sublimely met by Fabian De Oliveria, who’s first time low strike went in off the post.
Margate were now in full control of the game and went on to score their third with a fantastic first time volley from Nathan Geddes at the near post from an Alam corner in the 61st min all but sealing the victory.
There were more chances from Greig, Saunders and Pitman but the fourth goal in the 79th min was an own goal deflected into The Bay net after some excellent wing play from Kodie Bristow and De Oliveria, completing a very good second half performance.
FT 4-0
Coach Paul Meade post match comments.
“This was by far the worst first half performance this season and the players were reminded of it at halftime, not starting with the passion and determination and expectations that they have all applied in training and performed at all season so far.”
“The second half was exactly what we required with an excellent response. We moved the ball much quicker, competed in the areas that we had identified were a first half issue, and pressed high causing their defence many problems. And in the end was a very professional second half comfortable victory.”
“Again the support that we get from home fans this season has been nothing short of immense. The players are very appreciative thank you all!”
UP THE ‘GATE
