Margate begin their 2025/26 Isthmian South-East campaign this Saturday at Hartsdown Park as they welcome league newcomers Jersey Bulls to Kent.
After a gruelling pre-season, both sides enter the new campaign full of optimism. Margate will be aiming to go one better this season after last year’s heartbreak in the play-off semi-final. For the visitors, it’s a historic occasion as they embark on their first-ever season at Step Four, following a dream 2024/25 that saw them earn promotion via the play-offs.
Margate wrapped up pre-season with a challenging away fixture against National League South side Dover Athletic, narrowly losing 3-1. Despite the defeat, it capped a strong pre-season that included impressive victories over Dulwich Hamlet (2-0) and Concord Rangers (5-0).
Jersey Bulls also enjoyed a positive build-up to the season, recording two emphatic wins — 2-0 against St Clement and a 9-1 triumph over Vale Recreation. They began their competitive campaign last weekend with a commanding 5-0 win over Erith & Belvedere in the Extra-Preliminary Round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Margate fans will be encouraged by the news that TT Walters, Harrison Hatfull, and Kai Garande have all returned to training and are in contention to feature on Saturday. Brandon Davey is also available for selection despite his red card last week — his suspension applies to the club’s next friendly fixture, not the league opener.
Saturday marks the first-ever meeting between Margate and Jersey Bulls, and we look forward to welcoming everyone associated with the Bulls to Hartsdown Park.
Please note the earlier kick-off time of 1pm, with gates opening at 11:30am.
Tickets can still be purchased in advance by clicking here.
