Lewes (H) - 1st April 2023

By Josh Cole

Margate return to Hartsdown Park as they begin the final month of the 2022/23 Isthmian Premier League season with the visit of play-off chasing Lewes.

Margate shocked the league leaders by performing an incredible comeback from 2-0 down at half-time to win 3-2 away at Hornchurch. A header from Sam Blackman opened the scoring for the ‘Gate in the 50th minute before two fantastic strikes from Ben Greenhalgh in the 64th and 85th minute respectively, completed the comeback. That victory put the Blues 12 points clear of the drop zone, a crucial gap with only five games remaining.

Lewes are chasing a play-off place as they sit 7th, four points off Enfield, who occupy that crucial final play-off place. Lewes were able to put pressure on Enfield as they beat Potters Bar 2-1 at The Dripping Pan last time out, however Enfield maintained the four-point gap with a vital away win at Herne Bay.

Margate are likely to still be without Defender Harry Hudson who continues to recover from a swollen ankle, whilst Ade Cole continues to struggle with a back injury. Manager Reece Prestedge may be able to welcome back Taylor Fisher to the squad as he continues to recover from injury. Harrison Hatfull continues to be missing with cracked ribs sustained in the 1-0 home defeat to Aveley.

The ‘Gate have played the Rooks 13 times since October 2012 with the ‘Gate winning three, the Rooks winning seven and three ending in draws. In recent history, Lewes have the upper hand, as Margate haven’t beaten their counterparts since August 2019, a four-game winning streak including the last time Lewes visited Hartsdown Park, ending in a 6-2 victory for the visitors on the 9th October 2021.

Earlier this season, the ‘Gate travelled to The Dripping Pan but were sent back to CT9 with zero points after Lewes won 2-0 with goals from Coleman (29th minute), and former Margate striker Joe Taylor (90th minute).

Margate’s last five matches include two wins against Potters Bar (0-1), and Hornchurch (2-3) but three losses in between the two victories at the hands of Canvey Island (5-2), Bognor (1-0), and Aveley (0-1). The visitors come to Hartsdown Park in fine form, winning four out of their last five matches against Enfield (1-0), Brightlingsea (2-0), Folkestone (1-2) and Potters Bar (2-1), however they fell to a 2-0 defeat to Canvey Island.

If you can’t make it to Hartsdown Park, then don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Head over to our official Twitter @margatefc_ for match updates live from 2:15pm onwards!

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