Trott looking for capital gains

Margate go into the final game of the regular season tomorrow with a chance of catching AFC Wimbledon or Billericay for a play-off place, but relying on a slip up by either, writes Steve Wells.

With Gate on 71 points, the Dons are on 72 points with a goal difference that is three better than Margate’s, while Billericay are on 74 points with a goal difference that is five worse (than Margate’s).

Billericay require just a point at home to inconsistent Leyton to secure their play-off place, while Wimbledon face tricky trip to East Thurrock, where a draw might not be enough if Margate take all three points at Hendon.

The Blues have shown some return to form despite the embarrassing draw away at Slough, and are currently ranked five in the form table have taken 12 from a possible 18 points.

But Gate will be without influential midfielder Jay Saunders who serves the second of his three match ban. Pat Sappleton could return to the side after his one match ban and injury, but Charlie Mitten (dead leg) looks almost certain to miss out, and long-term absentees Steve McKimm and Paul Abbott also out.

Hendon are possibly playing for the last time at Claremont Road and will be looking to celebrate what has been a remarkable turn-around during the season.

From looking near certainties for relegation half way through the season, the Greens are now one of the division’s form sides having accrued 11 from a possible 18 points. Having said that, their recent fixtures have been played mainly against mid-table opposition.

Hendon will be without suspended duo Hamie Busby and Dean Green who face three and four match bans respectively.

When the two sides met just before Christmas, Margate ran out 4-1 winners.

Looking forward to the game, Margate player-boss Robin Trott told www.margate-fc.com  :“I’ve watched Hendon play. They’re sort of like Ashford but they’ve got two strong lads up front and they’re awesome going forward and we’ve got to deal with that first. It’s no good going there and losing, we’ve got to go there and win.”

Visit Margate’s website: www.margate-fc.com

Hendon v Margate
Ryman Premier League
Saturday 28^th April 2007
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Claremont Road, Brent Cross, London NW2 1AE