Margate return to action at Hartsdown Park this Saturday as they welcome high-flying AFC Croydon Athletic, looking to build on their impressive recent run in the Isthmian South-East Division.
The ‘Gate moved up to 6th place in the table on Tuesday evening with a thrilling 4-2 victory over AFC Whyteleafe. That result means Ben Greenhalgh’s side have now lost just once in their last seven league outings – a narrow 2-1 defeat away at Sheppey United last weekend.
Saturday’s visitors, managed by former AFC Wimbledon and Ebbsfleet United striker Danny Kedwell, have made an excellent start to their campaign and currently sit second in the league standings. However, their momentum has slowed slightly after back-to-back setbacks – a home defeat to Jersey Bulls followed by a midweek draw away at VCD Athletic. Before that, the Rams had won five of their previous six games and remain strong contenders in the early promotion race.
The clash will also see two familiar faces return to Kent, with former Margate goalkeeper Amadou Tangara and striker Kadell Daniel now part of the Croydon squad.
Team News
Margate’s injury list is beginning to ease.
- Louie Atkins continued his return to fitness with valuable minutes in Tuesday’s win.
- Max Walsh also featured as a late substitute and edges closer to full sharpness.
- There are doubts over Ronnie Vint, while striker Kieron Agbebi is nearing a comeback following his FA Trophy injury at Westfield.
Previous Meetings
Croydon had the better of the two sides last season, taking four points from the encounters. A 2-2 draw at Hartsdown Park in October was followed by a narrow 1-0 defeat for Margate in the reverse fixture in February.
Matchday Information
- Kick-off: 3pm
- Gates open: 12:15pm
- Fans arriving early can watch Leeds United v Tottenham Hotspur on the big screen in the Hartsdown Bar.
- Supporters in the loyalty scheme can earn double points between 12:15pm and 2pm across the bar and food outlets.
