Bowers and Pitsea

After an 11-day break, Margate return to action this Saturday hosting Bowers and Pitsea at Hartsdown Park in the BetVictor Isthmian League.

Last weekend’s league game at Leatherhead was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch meaning there has been some time for players including Liam Friend and loanee Jimmy Witt to recover from injury.

Assistant Manager Mike Sandmann will return to the technical area this Saturday, following a one-match suspension.

Manager Jay Saunders will however be without three key personnel with Ben Swift, Noel Leighton and Kadell Daniel all suspended.

There really is very little to separate the two sides currently sitting in 13th (Bowers) and 14th place (Gate) in the League. With a game in hand, Margate lag just three points behind their opposition, making a win this weekend all the more important to assist with The Gate's charge for a higher League position.

Saturday's visitors come to HDP in good form, having gone unbeaten in their last five league outings, they will be looking to record a third win a row following two impressive victories including a 7-0 thrashing of Brightlingsea Regent. 

The Gate meanwhile will be looking to start the month with three elusive points. February proved win-less and Saunders' side will be desperate to record their first league win since beating Haringey Borough 4-2 on Saturday 25 January. 

Previewing the game, Manager Jay Saunders believes his side will have to dig deep to take a further three points from the side they beat 1-0 earlier this season.

“They’ve got some good players and a good togetherness about them. We have to match that and hopefully show some extra quality.”

"Our squad is light at the moment with suspensions and injuries but we will stick together, having back-to-back games at home is positive because we have the boost of our home supporters. They'll be opportunity for players to step up and be counted and six points we want to add to our tally."

Tickets for Saturday's fixture can be purchased in advance via our online Club Shop.

Visitors planning their trip to Hartsdown Park may wish to take a look at our food and drink specials this Saturday by clicking here.

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