Essuman Enjoying Life At Hartsdown

Three appearances, three clean sheets: it’s been a very positive start to life on loan at Margate for young centre back George Essuman.

With a number of injuries and suspensions affecting Manager Steve Watt’s match day selection, the Dover Athletic defender was enlisted, and has settled into the promotion chasing pack seamlessly.

George spoke about the warm welcome he has received from his team-mates and fans at Hartsdown Park.

“I’ve come into a winning team and a team in great spirits and good form, so it’s been as easy transition to come in and help the team win games.”

“The team have been very welcoming and have embraced me well. They’re a good bunch of lads with a lot of hunger and desire to play higher.”

George has slotted into a back five including influential goalkeeper Lenny Pidegley that has looked organised and solid, despite having to reshuffle over recent weeks. Combined with the advice and guidance from former centre-backs Steve Watt and Steve Brown, George is looking to absorb as much learning and experience as he can.

“With the likes of Lenny and Liam supporting you, they’re influential in the team and great characters off the pitch and leaders on the pitch. They talk and command the team so you pick up a name or two when they’re giving instructions to players!”

Being involved with the first team as they hunt for a play-off place is also adding value to George’s loan experience.

“It’s very important to be involved in such a run, as it gives me a confidence boost. To be in a great team with great players makes you want to work that bit harder in training to improve every day to stay at the higher end of the table.”

With seven wins in a row, next up for The Gate is a trip to Needham Market on Saturday afternoon. A tough journey and yet another tough fixture in the Bostik League.

With the mid-week trip to Leiston postponed, George has enjoyed another week settling in at Margate and revealed how motivated and focused the squad is to sustain their impressive form.

“The lads are in great spirits ahead of Saturday. With that being said, training Thursday was still very sharp and intense as the Gaffer, Brownie and Mike do not want us to rest of our laurels.”

“The Gaffer has made it clear that we approach every match, one at a time. We have to defeat the team standing between us and the play offs and fight for our team mates and our position on the league table.”

The Manager’s philosophy is one that is embedded throughout out the team, from senior players to new signings; and it’s one that’s held them in good stead. So, the answer was almost written before George was asked what preparations for Saturday afternoon will be like…

“Same as always!”

It’s proven a winning formula and one that is infectious to anyone who spends time watching the boys play.

“They’ll be plenty of laughs and team bonding on the coach to the game and the moment we step off, it will be game mode ready for the task ahead. Three points and great football for the travelling fans!”

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