U23's Comfortably Beat Staplehurst Away

By Paul Meade

Margate FC U23’s were on their travels again on Wednesday night, this time away to an out of form Staplehurst side.

On a very boggy pitch with the mist starting to settle this only added to what could still be a very difficult game for the young ‘Gate side.

They started with their high tempo and should have taken the lead after only two minutes when Akeem was sent through one-on-one with the ‘keeper but was saved by an outstretched leg.

Then in the 8th minute a long throw from Handley was flicked into the path of Charlie Meade by Woody Pitman but Meade’s shot was comfortably saved.

This was the perfect start and in the 21st minute, Akeem found himself again one-on-one with the ‘keeper, but was met with the same result, his shot saved.

Margate were in complete control of this game but somehow had not managed to convert their chances.

On the 36th minute Staplehurst left themselves wide open at the back Reece Greig finally broke the deadlock with a long range shot skidding under the opposition ‘keepers right hand to take a well-deserved lead.

The second half was a continuation of the first and a second goal seemed inevitable with constant pressure and shots from Pitman, Meade and Hoxha, but none were converted.

With the introduction of Imam Alam, The ‘Gate increased their forward play and a perfect lofted pass from Conner Wardle found Iman, who’s first touch took him beyond the fullback and calmly slotted home to double their lead.

Staplehurst tried to attack leaving more players forward but outstanding defensive displays from Tom Handley and young centre back Louis Reavill denied any possibility of a comeback.

The game was finally won in the 78th minute with a fierce right foot volley from Reece Greig claiming his second and Margate’s third.

There was enough time left for one more chance from a free kick after Jamie Cam was brought down on the edge of the penalty area, but the free kick was driven into the wall.

Post-match thoughts from manager, Tur Hoxha.

“Solid performance again from the boys, on a very wet grass pitch boys had to adapt to different playing conditions from what we are used to.

“In the half time team talk was to get the next goal as soon as possible, and we did that two minutes in after some great passing football.

“Now we look like a team playing some fantastic football after a difficult start to the season. Every single one of the boys put in a shift and worked their socks off tonight. Great away win massive well done to the boys.”

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