Friday, 19 March 2010

Preview: Margate v Carshalton Athletic, 20th March

Carshalton Athletic face their most crucial game to date this Saturday, as their Ryman Premier survival battle steps up a gear when they travel to Margate.

With just three points separating the four clubs in the drop zone, Carshalton will need to draw on all their resources to garner the desired three points they so desperately need.

And with Margate also struggling and just ten games of the season remaining, there will be all to play for when the Robins line up at Hartsdown Park.

Margate - The Form Book
Placed in 21st and two points behind the Robins, Margate have endured a dismal campaign for much of this season.

With one of the worst defenses in the league, conceding nearly two goals a game on average, the Gate have struggled for consistency.

But since Ian O'Connell took over the managerial reigns in March, things have started to look more positive for Margate who are currently on a run of three games unbeaten.

They have picked up wins against Tooting & Mitcham and Billericay Town of late and most recently enjoyed a tenacious draw against high flying Sutton United.

"And Margate Manager Ian O'Connell is understandably impressed with his teams recent run of form.
One thing I believe in as a manager is continuity and I think that comes from playing under Chris Kinnear", he told www.thisiskenttoday.co.uk.

"Some managers like to rotate their team. We have not got the squad to do that anyway but I believe in keeping a winning side," he added.

Margate - Players to Watch
Leroy Huggins is the in form player for Margate at the moment, with the forward scoring three goals in his last three games.

Jamie Turner is a vastly experienced goalkeeper, who is a recent signing for the Gate. Has made over 100 Conference South appearances for Tonbridge Angels between 2005 to 2008.

Lloyd Blackman is a dangerous centre-forward who has scored 13 goals so far this campaign. Formerly of Brentford before injury forced him out of the professional game.

Aaron Lacy is a right sided defender who is particularly dangerous from long throws. The 29 year-old spent six years with Maidstone United.

Wayne Wilson made his debut for Margate against the Robins in 2008, and is prolific with his long range efforts. The 21 year-old midfielder played all but twice last season.

The Stats
Margate
Have one of the worst home records in the Ryman Premier, with just three victories from a possible 17.
Also have one of the worst defences in the league, having conceded 61 goals in total this campaign.
Lloyd Blackman is the 8th highest goal-scorer within the division.

Carshalton Athletic
The Robins will hope to replicate the form they showed in the three solid away draws they secured against Worcester City, Dartford and AFC Hornchurch, back in January.
But they have only won two games away from home all season.
And they are without a win in their past eleven away league fixtures.

For more information visit - www.carshaltonathletic.co.uk