Margate suffered a disappointing afternoon at the Green Box Stadium as goals from Sam Hasler and Kareem Isiaka secured the points for Ashford United.
Toby Bower made his debut for the Blues, while Javaun Splatt returned to the starting line-up.
Following the Last Post and a minute’s silence, Ashford threatened first when Harry Seaden tipped a header over following a long throw.
An unusual interruption followed as the referee required treatment and was unable to continue. Margate kit man Frankie stepped in to run the line, allowing the match to resume after a lengthy delay.
The ‘Gate showed some promise in possession but struggled to turn their approach play into clear chances. A spell around the Ashford penalty area ended without a shot as the hosts cleared.
Ten minutes of added time were signalled, and Ashford broke the deadlock during that period when Hasler struck from 25 yards. A subsequent confrontation brought another stoppage and a booking for Connor Wilkins before Margate went into the break behind.
The Blues suffered another setback early in the second half when Joe Tyrie was injured in a challenge, with Mikey Dalton replacing him. David Adewoju also entered the action for Jayden Boulton.
Ashford headed narrowly over from a corner before Isiaka doubled their advantage shortly before the hour with a powerful strike past Seaden.
Margate came close to a response when O’Mara hit the crossbar. Substitute Ryan Huke then almost reached a loose ball inside the box, but the goalkeeper reacted quickly to intervene.
Further changes saw George Nunn and Lewis Chambers introduced, although Ashford continued to threaten and sent a dangerous ball across the six-yard box.
Margate’s afternoon worsened late on when Adewoju received a straight red card after losing possession and bringing down an opponent near the edge of the penalty area.
Ashford subsequently struck the post, with Seaden also making a save. At the other end, Schafer’s run created an opportunity for Splatt, whose effort was saved.
Seven minutes of added time brought no breakthrough for the ‘Gate, who return to Hartsdown Park to face Broadbridge Heath on Saturday 14 November.
Attendance: 537
