Margate produced a composed and professional performance to defeat Ramsgate 2–0 in the First Round of the GoCardless Kent Senior Cup on Tuesday evening, setting up a Second Round home tie against Charlton Athletic.
In front of a lively crowd of 1,600 at the WW Martin Community Stadium, Manager Ben Greenhalgh opted for a blend of experience and youth, giving opportunities to several U23 players alongside established first-teamers. Reece Hobbs was handed the start in goal, with Blu Husthwaite and returning midfielder Henry Young also named in the starting XI. The bench featured promising U23 talents including Finn Saunders, Reece Greig, and Blake White.
Despite the electric atmosphere, the game began quietly with few chances in the opening stages. Margate struck first in the 10th minute, taking advantage of a set-piece opportunity. A well-delivered free-kick from the right was met by Ibrahim Olutade, who calmly steered the ball home to give the Blues the lead.
Ramsgate responded with a brief spell of pressure and thought they had levelled through Kai Garrett, only for the linesman to rule the effort out for offside. Margate regrouped and grew into the game, nearly doubling their advantage when Kane Haysman fired just wide from a tight angle.
TT Walters was next to threaten, stinging the palms of Rams ‘keeper Adrian Prall with a powerful effort. The pressure finally told in the 40th minute when Walters turned provider, delivering a pinpoint cross that was expertly headed home by captain Harry Hudson to make it 2–0.
Margate began the second half with the same attacking intent, with Walters again trying his luck from distance, though Prall dealt with it comfortably. Ramsgate’s best opportunity came in the 64th minute when veteran midfielder Anthony Grant showed strength and composure before sending a low drive narrowly past the far post.
Greenhalgh’s side remained in control and continued to create chances. Haysman looked set to break through once more after a clever pass from the manager himself, only to be denied by a marginal offside call.
The introduction of U23 players Reece Greig and Finn Saunders in the closing stages added energy and excitement, helping Margate see out the final 20 minutes with little threat from the hosts.
It was a confident and disciplined display from the Blues, who now look forward to welcoming Charlton Athletic to Hartsdown Park in the next round.
Margate XI: Hobbs, Walsh, Knight, Hudson, Walters (Saunders 75’), Olutade (Greenhalgh 62’), Husthwaite, Davey, Haysman (Greig 83’), Young, Garande (Hatfull 69’)
Unused Substitutes: White
Goals:
Olutade 10’
Hudson 40’
Attendance: 1,600
