Boss Encouraged By Hythe Display

Mike Sandmann was encouraged by Margate’s display against Hythe Town in the Kent Senior Cup on Tuesday evening.

A handful of first team players lined up alongside the club’s Under 23s squad to make the short trip across the coast.

Two late goals knocked The Gate out the competition and whilst disappointed to be on the wrong end of a 3-1 result, Sandmann found the match productive.

“It was really pleasing to have a good look at a lot of the 23s players and give valuable minutes to a couple of lads who needed it.”

“We ended the match with nine 20-year olds and young Felix who is only 17. Whilst I’m sure the team will be disappointed not to have pushed the tie into penalties, the chance to hand these players a deserved run-out was one we’re glad to have taken.”

Reflecting on the 90 minutes, Sandmann said:

“After the initial 20 minutes, we found ourselves well and truly in the game and Bas produced a great finish to draw us level. It’s always a tough ask for players to jel together, especially when they have just met.”

“But I was really pleased with what some of the 23s players produced and we want to give these young players opportunity to learn and develop and this game did exactly that.”

“The deciding goals came when we were down to 10 men with Jardall picking up an injury and all three subs used and it looked like we were heading to penalties.”

“The boys couldn’t quite hold on, but I still think we took away what we wanted to from the fixture and we wish Hythe all the best in the competition and for the season ahead.”

Attention now turns to a busy Bank Holiday weekend. A double header of tough games wit Margate hosting Tonbridge Angels on Saturday afternoon before a trip to Whitehawk on Monday.

“It’s a challenging opening for us but these are games you want to be a part of as a manager and for the players. We’re trying to utilise and rotate the squad as best as we can so we can sustain the level of performance fans saw in the first half against Corinthians and Brightlingsea.”

“It will be nice to return back home after three away games on the spin. I know a few special things are planned for both players and supporters to enjoy and hopefully it will be an entertaining Bank Holiday weekend and we can add some valuable points to the board in the process.”

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