Margate were denied all three points in the cruellest fashion as they conceded a 97th-minute equaliser to draw 2-2 with Faversham Town at Hartsdown Park on Tuesday evening.
Manager Ben Greenhalgh returned to the starting XI after missing Saturday’s win at Eastbourne due to the birth of his child, while Kane Haysman was named among the substitutes as Margate’s injury list continues to ease.
It was a lively start in drizzly conditions, with Faversham creating two early openings that were confidently dealt with by Tom Wray. Margate responded swiftly as Greenhalgh forced a fine save, leading to a corner that sparked the opening goal. The short corner routine saw Greenhalgh recycle possession and deliver a cross that deflected into the path of Ibrahim Olutade, who netted his first goal since returning from injury.
Margate continued to control proceedings, enjoying plenty of possession and moving the ball with confidence. Emmanuel Oke went close to doubling the lead in the 24th minute with a powerful effort that flew narrowly wide.
As half-time approached, Faversham threatened with a couple of chances from long throws, but Margate stood firm and went into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
The ‘Gate made an ideal start to the second half, doubling their advantage in the 51st minute. A neat exchange between Jack Peters and Greenhalgh allowed the latter to break clear and fire at goal. The Faversham goalkeeper could only parry the effort into the path of Olutade, who reacted quickly to poke home his second of the night.
The unbeaten visitors began to rally and applied sustained pressure. Wray and his defence were called into action repeatedly, producing two brave blocks and an excellent save in quick succession to preserve the lead. However, the pressure eventually told when James Dyer struck from the edge of the box to make it 2-1.
Margate continued to defend resolutely as the clock ticked down and almost sealed victory in the 86th minute. Substitute Kai Garande produced a dazzling solo run, beating three defenders before flashing a low ball across goal that narrowly evaded both the target and Louie Atkins at the back post.
With seven minutes of added time announced, Faversham threw everything forward. Deep into stoppage time, a late free-kick into the Margate box was met by Johan Caney-Bryan, who headed home to snatch a dramatic equaliser and deny Margate all three points.
Margate are back in action on Saturday, making the short trip to Deal Town in the Isthmian South-East Division.
Match Details
Margate XI: Wray, Hatfull, Oke (Walters 79’), Walsh, Hudson, Olutade (Atkins 70’), Greenhalgh, Peters (Haysman 70’), Young, Garande
Subs not used: Husthwaite
Goals:
Olutade (9’, 51’)
Attendance: 407
