Swift Seals Point In Kent Derby

Margate centre back Ben Swift helped salvage a draw as a late header secured a point on the road in the Kent derby at Tonbridge Angels.

The first game for new manager Jay Saunders, a couple of changes were made to the starting eleven in a bid to halt an Angels side on a good run of form, pushing for a play-off place.

The hosts showed their credentials early on with a snap shot effort after only a few minutes narrowly missing the target.

With possession evening posied over the first half of the opening 45 minutes the deadlock was broken when Swift was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area.

The penalty was duly dispatched and Margate a goal down.

The reaction was positive as The Gate looked to respond making the most of the pace offered down the flanks by loan duo Kadell Daniel and Joseph Hungbo.

A change of personnel and formation was made at the break with the introduction of Dave Martin in place of Bradley Stevenson.

The second half started positively for Margate as Captain Liam Friend came close with a header from an in-swinging corner.

During their best attacking spell of the game, Margate had Connor Dymond to thank as his goal line clearance denied The Angels who created a dangerous opening for themselves.

Sid Sollis was added to the mix as Margate threw everything forward in search of an equaliser.

Martin had a golden opportunity making a perfectly timed run to a pinpoint Dymond delivery but his header – whilst on target – fell straight into the arms of the Tonbridge goalkeeper.

As the clock was ticking the equaliser was secured when a. Martin corner was met by Swift, whose header was a strong as his run into the box and the ball smashed into the back of the net.

The Kent derby sparked into life in the final stages of the game with some physical challenges from both sides who ended up taking a point a piece.

Margate: Wells, Dymond, Mills, Rogers, Friend, Swift, Daniel, Robins, Flisher, Stevenson (Martin 46mins), Hungbo (Sollis 64mins). Subs not used: Kallmeier, Barnard, Paxman.

Attendance: 530