Margate begin 2026 by welcoming Ashford United to Hartsdown Park in the latest of Kent derbies for the ‘Gate.
Last Saturday’s 3-1 win away at Herne Bay kept the Blues chances of a play-off push alive, but with very little margin for error, Saturday presents another huge fixture in the calendar for Ben Greenhalgh and his side.
A 35-yard free-kick from the gaffer before two strikes from Sam Blackman saw the ‘Gate put in a professional display at The Crest Stadium. Ashford United, and new manager Craig Stone have had an enjoyable festive period. Throughout December, the Nuts & Bolts lost only one of their five games, an enthralling 5-4 defeat away at league leaders Three Bridges their only defeat.
Tuesday nights superb win away at Jersey Bulls will certainly prove that the ‘Gate are in for a tricky fixture as they look for a first win at Hartsdown Park since our 5-1 thrashing of East Grinstead on 22nd November.
Greenhalgh reshaped his squad this week by allowing Jack Peters to return to Whitstable Town on dual-registration, whilst forward Kieron Agbebi was recalled by Dover Athletic and subsequently loaned back out to Sheppey United.
August’s Bank Holiday Monday game at The Green Box Stadium probably epitomises Margate season so far. A comfortable 2-0 lead was wasted in the second half as they fell 3-2 behind, only for Kane Haysman to rescue a 95th minute draw as the game ended 3-3 in the August sunshine.
The last four games between these two sides have seen two draws and two wins for the ‘Gate, including last seasons 1-0 home win on the final day of the season as the Blues prepared for their play-off shot.
Supporters attending are welcome to enjoy live football on the screens in the Hartsdown Bar before and after today’s game with Villa v Nottingham Forest live from 12:30pm and Bournemouth v Arsenal live from 5:30pm. Pints of Brixton IPA are just £5 throughout the day.
Turnstiles are open at 12:15pm and we look forward to welcoming you to Hartsdown Park for the first time in 2026.
