By David Hansen
Margate Women return to the road this weekend as they travel to Greenwich to face Long Lane in another South East Counties Women’s Football League clash at Kidbrooke Playing Fields. The hosts will be searching for their first league victory of the season, while Margate look to bounce back and secure their third win of the campaign.
Long Lane have endured a tough start to their season, collecting just a single point so far – a 2-2 draw against Betteshanger Welfare. Defeats to Tonbridge Angels, Tunbridge Wells Foresters, and King’s Hill (twice) have left them looking to find some consistency as the campaign progresses.
The ‘Gate head into the fixture following a 4-1 defeat away to league leaders Tonbridge Angels. Despite the scoreline, George Adams’ side were competitive for much of the match before tiring late on, allowing the hosts to extend their lead. Margate did find the net through Abbie Greetham, who struck shortly after the interval to briefly reduce the deficit.
The last meeting between these two sides came five years ago, when Margate recorded a memorable 13-0 victory at Hartsdown Park in September 2020 in the Division One East. Three current Margate players – Becca Slevin, Shannon King, and Nicole Adams — were among the scorers that day.
Manager George Adams continues to manage several injury concerns, opening up opportunities for Lily Ring, Sophie Manning, and Katie George, who have all impressed for the Development side this season.
There is positive news, however, as Alesha Beach returns to the squad after missing last weekend’s match due to concussion protocols. Her availability provides a timely boost as Margate look to get back to winning ways.
