Sutcliffe: "Great To Get An Opportunity"

By Riley Finch

Margate’s youth players earned valuable minutes in our recent defeat to Hythe Town on Tuesday evening.

Despite winning the competition last year, the ‘Gate were denied a second round appearance after a 2-1 defeat to the Cannon’s.

While not the result the ‘Gate would’ve wanted, it was a night to remember for some players in the Youth sides, with three players featuring in the defeat.

17-year-old Rory Sutcliffe said: “I enjoyed it a lot, the main things were to focus on my game, work hard and stay in position.

“Its obviously a big step up from the youth football, its more intense, a bit harder and its more physical. I think I did alright.”

While Sutcliffe was joined in the line-up by fellow youth players George Hunt and a sparkling cameo by Vinnie Bowman, the young midfielder was also with a pool of experienced heads.

“The experienced players are very helpful on the pitch, they tell you where to go and what position to take up.”

After giving the youngsters a chance to impress, manager Reece Prestedge gave high praise to the players who took the step up.

“It’s always good to get praise,” said Sutcliffe.

“It lifts your head and makes you perform better when your being told you’re doing well. It gives you a boost.”

Margate are out of the Kent Senior Cup for this season but the prospect of an FA Cup run is still on the cards for The Gate as they face Chesham United on Saturday.

Sutcliffe and other youth stars are hoping to be in the squad for the fixture after strong displays on Tuesday.

“It’s great to keep my fitness and get my confidence up and score goals while in the youth setup, as well as getting minutes with the first-team.

“It would be good to get a win and to progress as far as we can for the players and the club.”

Sutcliffe is sponsored both Home & Away by Margate Youth this season.

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