13thaug04

Margate confident despite troubled summer

FOLLOWING last season's demotion from the Nationwide Conference National Division, Margate will be looking for a solid debut in Nationwide South, with a blend of players from last season's Nationwide Conference squad and new players following the departure of last year's first team regulars, writes Steve Wells.

It has been a short pre-season for Margate's management team, but Kevin Raine has expressed his confidence for the new season.

Three victories and just one defeat in four friendlies re-enforces that confidence, and as Gate saw last year, a short pre-season doesn't preclude the side from punching above its weight.

Margate's visitors to Ashford Town's Homelands ground are Bognor Regis Town on the opening day of the new season.

The visitors come into the Nationwide South after finishing 10th in last season's Ryman League Premier Division.

With a selection of former Portsmouth and Brighton players amongst their ranks, The Rocks look likely to be a force to be reckoned with at Nyewood Lane, but may find the going a little tougher away from home.

Their pre-season programme has included defeats to Nuneaton Borough, Moneyfields and AFC Wimbledon, but a creditable draw with Woking.

However, you can never judge a team on pre-season results - but you do, once the ball is kicked at 3:00pm tomorrow.

Margate vs Bognor Regis Town
Saturday 14th August 2004
Nationwide South
Kick Off 3:00pm at Ashford Town FC, The Homelands, Kingsnorth Road, Ashford