Margate begin their FA Trophy campaign on Friday evening as they travel to Berkshire to face Ascot United in the 1st Qualifying Round.
Having enjoyed a solid start to the season after being three games unbeaten in the league, as well as progressing to the 1st Qualifying Round with a convincing 4-1 win away at Peacehaven & Telscombe.
Friday night’s hosts have also enjoyed a positive start to the campaign having also reached the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA cup having won two games in the competition.
In their three league games so far, Ascot have won one, drawn one and lost one and have four points so far. Their only league win came on Tuesday evening as they thumped Binfield 4-0 at The Racecourse Ground.
These two sides have just one previous meeting which came in September 2024 when the Blues travelled to Berkshire for an FA Trophy fixture. The ‘Gate fell to a 1-0 defeat in the 2nd Qualifying Round.
Margate will be with Olu who continues to recover from injury, whilst midfielder Lewis Chambers remains a month away from returning.
Connor Wilkins is a doubt after picking up a slight knock in training on Monday evening.
Striker Johan Caney-Bryan has dual registered with SCEFL side Bearsted to gain more minutes as he looks to return to full fitness.
One player that is likely to be in the squad for the first time competitively this season is Mal Belboda as he looks to return from injury quicker than originally first thought. After an impressive first game against Dover in July, Belboda picked up an injury in our 4-2 pre-season win over Sutton Athletic, however he could make his first competitive appearance on Friday evening.
Supporters are reminded that Ascot United operate a cashless stadium. The ‘Gate will be wearing their blue home kit for this fixture.
Kick-off at The Racecourse Ground is scheduled for 7:45pm.
Ground Address
Ascot United Football Club
Winkfield Road
Ascot
SL5 7LJ
