15thapr05

We'll win for Paul

DEFEAT for Margate will condemn Chris Kinnear's side to a second successive relegation but they will dedicate any victory at Eastbourne Borough to former Gate striker Paul Sykes, writes Stephen McCartney.

Both Margate and Folkestone Invicta have decided to play tomorrow following Sykes' tragic death on Tuesday night, collapsing 30 minutes into the Kent Senior Cup semi-final between the two sides at the Westbourne Stadium.

However, Kinnear isn't sure how his players will react to the tragedy when they take to the field at Priory Lane.

"We will be thinking of Paul," said a choked Kinnear.  "The lads will play the best they can and hopefully we can do something to resolve the position we're in."

The Eastbourne Borough manager, Garry Wilson was at the Westbourne Stadium on Tuesday night and has co-operated with his opposite number.

"The next morning their manager phoned up and said what ever we wanted to do they'll go along with.

"He was actually at the game, Garry Wilson, their manager.  Everyone pulls together in a situation like that.  Even if you don't know Paul personally you know how tragic the situation is."

Kinnear hasn't had much time to prepare for the game, as most Kent club's have been devastated by the news.  He added: "It's difficult but as people want to grieve but by saying we will play, they've got to go out and play.

"Hopefully we'll do well and do it for Paul really and see if we can get results now in his name as it were."

Eastbourne Borough v Margate
Saturday 16th April 2005
Nationwide Conference South
Kick Off 3:00pm
Langney Sports Club, Priory Lane, Eastbourne, East Sussex