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CONTENTS
pg 10-11
Honours Shared
Oakley Photosport
AT Photography
Ben Greenhalgh Statement
Player Statements
Interview - Lewis Knight
Interview - Joe Ellul
Margate FC Mens Update
Ramsgate FC Mens Update
Margate Womens Update
Ramsgate Womens Update
Walking Football Focus
Rams Legend - Mickey Williamson
Warren Schulz - All-Star 11
Ramsgate Athletic - Update
Sunday League Spotlight- Lanthorne FC
Football IQ - Futsal Tournament
Margate U23’s - Update
Website Relaunch - Margate FC History
Sunday League - December Overview pg 18-19
EDITORS NOTES
What a month December has been. Both Margate and Ramsgate have been flying high at the top of the table, both looking to secure promotion and playoff positions. Sittingbourne look to be their main rivals, challenging for the title and looking strong.
We had the tense Boxing Day derby between the two Thanet sides, held at Hartsdown Park and with a sell-out crowd of 2500 people
The atmosphere was electric, and we were treated to an outstanding spectacle of non-league football. Roll on Easter for the next derby at the WW Martin Community Stadium.
Russel Goldsmith Publisher
WRITTEN BY DARIUS SARRAFAN
HONOURS SHARED
© 2025 Oakley Photosport
A
93RD MINUTE EQUALISER SPARKED SCENES OF CELEBRATION ON THE BLUE SIDE OF THE ISLE, AS IT RESCUED A HOME DRAW AGAINST RAMSGATE AND THEIR HUGE AWAY FOLLOWING ON DERBY DAY AT HARTSDOWN PARK.
With a substantial gap between the Gate and the top two, the pre-match analysis was that this was a must win for the Blues if they were to be considered serious title contenders. The celebrations that went long into the night, however, demonstrate how much they valued a draw against their neighbours.
The Rams made two changes from the side that beat Lancing in their last game, with Billy Munday and Benny Bioletti coming in from the start.
In front of a sold-out crowd, it was Margate who had the first chance of the game in the third minute. Playermanager Ben Greenhalgh played a through ball, finding Ibrahim Olutade in space. He closed in on goal, but Henry Newcombe stood up well and denied him with a superb diving save.
It was frenetic stuff early on, with the Rams’s passing game being disrupted by a high press from the home side. Newcombe was called into action again in the tenth minute, saving down low from Jordan Ababio after he had cut inside from the right.
Ramsgate began to grow into the game after this though, with some crisp passing and intelligent movement pinning the Gate back inside their own half. Munday shot wide before Alfie Paxman was denied a penalty after he pounced on a short back pass. Referee Kane Dempster pointed for a corner despite contact coming from Wray.
Lee Martin went close in the 25th minute with a left footed strike from the edge of the box that was pushed wide, and the pressure continued to build as Margate were forced further and further back. Tom Clifford went close with a left
footed shot that went just wide of Wray’s far post, before the Gate custodian made a stunning save to deny the same player after TJ Jadama pulled the ball back from the byline in the 40th minute.
The pressure finally told in the first minute of stoppage time at the end of the half, as the Rams ensured they went into the break 1-0 up. A corner was drifted in by Roarie Deacon from the right, and Harry Hudson could only clear as far as Joe Ellul, who took a touch before firing past Wray from fifteen yards to spark wild celebrations in the away end.
The second half started in similar fashion, with Ramsgate looking to extend their lead. A delightful Joe Taylor backheel found Paxman at the byline on the left, but his cutback was just out of reach of a sliding Jadama. Five minutes later, however, Margate were level. A free kick was flighted in from the left touchline, and Lewis Knight’s header was nodded into the roof of the net from close range by Hudson.
Parity didn’t last long though, and the Rams regained the lead two minutes later. Another corner, this time from Paxman, was headed goalwards by Munday and Jay Leader was on hand to flick the ball past Wray in front of the huge travelling Red Army to make it 2-1. It was a brilliant, improvised finish that Joe Taylor would’ve been proud of.
Olutade fired a shot high and wide from the right side of the box as Margate looked to bounce back again, before Bioletti drove past Kai Garande before shooting just wide in the 62nd minute. The game entered a bit of a lull at this point, with Ramsgate ensuring they kept control of the game despite the home side’s best efforts.
With twelve minutes left, Greenhalgh, having given himself a free role in the latter stages, crossed for Olutade to scoop a shot over the bar from ten yards out. Paxman then forced another fine save out of Wray when his powerful shot was kept out at the near post following a lay off by Taylor.
In the third minute of stoppage time, Margate managed to find an equaliser. The ball was played into Max Walsh, and he took a touch before curling a left footed effort towards goal from just outside the box. Newcombe got a hand on it to push the ball onto the post, but the ball agonisingly trickled over the line.
© 2025 Oakley Photosport
Image: AT Photography
“IT WAS A GREAT OCCASION. AS A PLAYER YOU ALWAYS LOOK FOR WHO YOU HAVE GOT ON BOXING DAY AT THE START OF THE SEASON! NOT EXPECTING TO PLAY, AND HAVING PLAYED FOR MARGATE BEFORE, I REALLY ENJOYED THE GAME AND THE BANTER FROM BOTH SETS OF FANS. I THOUGHT THEIR KEEPER MADE SOME EXCELLENT SAVES AT IMPORTANT TIMES TOO.
WE WILL SEE IT AS TWO POINTS DROPPED IN TERMS OF THE RESULT BUT OVERALL THE GAME AND OCCASION - AND FOR A NEUTRAL - WAS A GREAT SHOWCASE FOR FOOTBALL IN THANET.”
HENRY NEWCOMBE - RAMSGATE FC
IMAGES FROM OAKLEY PHOTOSPORT
BOXING DAY DERBY
BOXING DAY DERBY
THANET DERBY STATEMENT
BEN GREENHALGH
THE THANET DERBY AT HARTSDOWN PARK
WAS A BRILLIANT
OCCASION
TO BE A PART OF AND TO HOST AS WELL. IT’S A FIXTURE THAT HAS BEEN HIGHLY ANTICIPATED, ESPECIALLY AS A LEAGUE FIXTURE.
I’ve been lucky that in my time at Margate for the majority of times I’ve been on the winning side, so that was obviously something we were pushing for, that feeling again.
The atmosphere was the best I’ve ever seen in my four seasons and the eruption from the bar end of the ground with our two goals were scenes that will live long in the memory. I am gutted we didn’t get to experience the scenes of taking the three points but a late equaliser left a buzz around Hartsdown park for sure!
The game was always set to be an entertaining one with both teams only having lost one league fixture and we came out of the blocks quicker than we probably ever have, with a breakthrough one-on-one for Ibz in the first few minutes. If it hadn’t been so early on it would be a guarantee for Ibz but it set the tempo for our first 15 minutes. Frustratingly we then had Ben Allen in on goal with no defenders around him, yet the linesman must have been in a very poor position, as watching it back, Ben was three yards onside. After a strong start with the score still being 0-0 our levels dropped slightly, and Ramsgate went on to control the rest of the first half. It seemed as if we had got to half time at 0-0 but their final corner was poorly cleared and then a deflected shot found its way into our net right before half time.
That changed the dynamics of the half time team talk but we knew we would come out firing as we always seem to when playing at home, and we went on to dominate the second half. It was great for Harry to get on the scoresheet on such an occasion, but unlike us this season, we then let in a goal within quick succession from another knockdown from a corner. We continued to knock on the door and more chances fell to us, but it was playing out as we couldn’t convert the chances that we needed to. Max Walsh, who had previously been out with a hamstring injury, came on and showed the quality we know he has and what we have missed to get us the equaliser. As we continued with the final few minutes we remained on the front foot but also were mindful about conceding in the same manner as we had done straight after our first goal.
Honours were even, which probably made a better occasion for the whole of Thanet and the footballing community, but it was great to see how well run the day was by the football club and how much of a success it all was for football in Thanet.
“WE’RE LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE OF THESE OCCASIONS IN THE NEAR FUTURE”
© 2024 Oakley Photosport
PLAYERS THOUGHTS ON THE DERBY
“It was a very good game to be involved in. I really felt the energy from our fans as soon as we came out. They came out in numbers which was great for us players. The game was really end-to-end, but I feel like if we were a bit more clinical, especially in the first half, it could have been a different game. Also, we had the better chances in the game. Overall, we should have taken the 3 points but that’s how football goes sometimes. We play them once more in the league at their place which will be another good game. Now we need to take each game as it comes and keep getting points on the board.”
IBRAHIM OLUTADE MARGATE
“It’s a point in the right direction away from home, in a local derby, against a team that will be challenging come the end of the season.
My take was they come out the blocks well which was combined with us starting quite slow for the first 15-20 minutes. We hadn’t played in 12 days or so and I think it just took us time to find our feet again and get into our stride. Once we did and we finally settled into the game, we started moving the ball around as we usually do, gained control of the momentum of the game and created a number of good chances throughout the half. I think we was worth our lead at half time. At half time the gaffa spoke in the changing room and was happy with the way the game was going once we’d found our feet and we as a team were confident, as we always are, that we had the experience and quality to push for another goal. Unfortunately, we did concede quite early in the half, however we responded very quickly and I think in doing so it really give us that boost and the feeling that it was going to be our day. I think from that point on it was a bit of the same as the later parts of the first half - we created a good few chances, a couple shots dragged inches wide and a few flashed across the goal without that final touch. Then obviously they scored with a couple of minutes left which is extremely gutting in any game, but in a game which is a local derby and is huge to fans it just hits home that little bit more.
Overall yes, we are disappointed we didn’t get the 3 points. I personally go into every game wanting and expecting to win no matter the opposition, that’s why I play. Saying that, I think the way that we drew, and in how late we conceded, it’s easy to look negatively on it and say it’s 2 points dropped. But on the other hand, it’s a point away from home to a team that will be challenging come the end of the season. Credit to Margate to keep going to the very last minute and I’m sure they’ll be happy, and it’s a good point for them as well.
I very much look forward to hosting them at our place at the end of the season, where I am confident we can get the win we nearly got at theirs.
I also want to say a massive thank you to the Ramsgate fans who came in numbers and made a lot of noise, as they always do. They have been unbelievable this season and I want to say their support doesn’t go unnoticed.”
JAY LEADER
PLAYERS THOUGHTS - CONTINUED
“In the end I thought it was a fair result, but if I had to say out of the two, we will be the more disappointed team and just couldn’t quite get it over the line on a few occasions. But that’s football and we bounce back. We all agreed we didn’t play our best football but we all worked our socks off for each other.
As a player it was great to play in as a local lad. It’s my first derby, biggest crowd I’ve played in front of, and I enjoyed every minute of it (until the equaliser). It’s really good to see a packed out stadium on Boxing Day and being local, even when you are playing, you are seeing a lot of familiar faces in the crowd. For example, I’ve got a lot of mates that support Ramsgate and Margate, so up one end you’re getting all the praise and the other I’m getting a bit of stick which is always nice - haha.
Can’t wait for the next one later on in the season at home which will be a good one as well”
BILLY MUNDAY RAMSGATE FC
LEWIS KNIGHT INTERVIEW - FAN FAVOURITE
WE CAUGHT UP WITH LEWIS TO DISCUSS HIS CAREER AND HIS FUTURE AT MARGATE FC
WHAT DREW YOU TO JOIN MARGATE FC?
Initially it was Ben as we played together at concord rangers. He was doing some training and games before pre-season as it was after Covid. He reached out to me and I could tell it was something good to be a part of.
HOW DO YOU FEEL BEING IN THE SAME LEAGUE AS LOCAL RIVALS RAMSGATE FC?
It was obviously disappointing for us to be relegated the season before but for the locals of Thanet I feel it’s a game they can all look forward to and a game which provides more of an edge to it.
SINCE JOINING THE CLUB THE FANS HAVE SHOWN YOU SO MUCH LOVE, HOW MUCH DO YOU FEEL THAT FAN BACKING HELPS YOUR FORM AND PERFORMANCE?
The fans have been brilliant to me. I feel they can see I always give my all for them and the atmosphere they create is brilliant. Having been at a fair few clubs in my career, Margate is one of the clubs with a real close connection between players and fans, and we really appreciate the ongoing support.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON HAVING A PLAYER MANAGER WITH BEN?
It’s great to have a manager who is very young in management terms, so he gets what some of the younger players need in terms of motivation and how players respond to certain things. Me and him have a good relationship on and off the pitch and we constantly demand the best out of each other.
WHO IS THE DJ IN THE CHANGING ROOM? WHO HAS THE BEST/WORST TASTE IN MUSIC?
I’m currently DJ, a few have tried before and failed. Fyn Rutherford was the worst. I’m sure he used to just play the charts each week.
DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL ROUTINE OR SUPERSTITION BEFORE YOU PLAY A BIG GAME?
Way more than I could possible fit into this article..
WHO WERE YOUR IDOLS GROWING UP AND WHO MADE YOU WANT TO BE A FOOTBALLER?
My dad. He was the one who got me into football from a very young age and he’s still a big supporter of me to this day constantly coming to games - home and away.
HOW DO YOU FEEL THE CLUB WILL DO THIS YEAR?
I feel we are in a good position currently in the league with a very young team. Ben, Flan and Els have created a great environment for the players and we shall see what the standings look like come the end of the season.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENT SO FAR AS A GATE PLAYER?
I would say from the season under Jay Saunders, reaching a cup final and just missing out in the playoffs was great to be a part of and something we are all striving to replicate and further.
THERE ALWAYS A JOKER IN THE CHANGING ROOM, WHO IS THE CLASS CLOWN AT MARGATE FC?
Young Jack Peters is very funny, as well as Tom Wray who is away with the fairy’s, typical goalkeeper.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR CAREER BEFORE MARGATE AND YOUR TIME AT MAIDSTONE UNITED AND BILLERICAY?
I have had a different non-league career to a few. I was never at an academy but have worked my way up through the leagues and managed to meet some great people along the way. I was playing for St Albans in the Conference South when Maidstone took a liking to me and signed me. It was a difficult season for me with a lot of injuries and being cut short with Covid but all a learning curve. I went to Billericay the season after that, which again was cut short due to Covid, and that’s when I went to Margate.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO AWAY FROM FOOTBALL IN YOUR FREE TIME?
I like to play golf but if there is one drop of rain then I’m in the club house. My friends call me 9 and in.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR FOOTBALL CAREER, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
I had an injury whilst I was playing for Brentwood, playing under Adam Flanagans dad (much nicer than Adam), which I was told would be difficult to come back from. I had great support around me from my family and managed to get through it.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE BOXING DAY DERBY AND DO YOU THINK IT WAS A FAIR RESULT?
I thought it was a great game to be a part of. The atmosphere was brilliant and a game you wish you was involved in as a player all the time. I feel the result was fair. We may have slightly edged it on chances created, but I feel both teams gave everything they had and cancelled each other out. We were disappointed with the goals we conceded and on another day we go into half time with at least a goal or 2. We will continue to take it game by game and see where that leaves us come the end of the season.
WE’D LIKE TO THANK LEWIS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO TALK TO US ABOUT HIS CAREER AND HIS TIME SO FAR AT MARGATE FC
JOE ELLUL
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
MISSED THE GAME
WE CAUGHT UP WITH RAMS JOE ELLUL TO DISCUSS HIS CAREER AT RAMSGATE FOOTBALL CLUB.
WHAT MADE YOU COME OUT OF RETIREMENT AND REJOIN RAMSGATE? WAS THERE UNFINISHED BUSINESS?
Yeah, I think wanting to retire and move away, once I had settled, I missed it more than I thought I would. Once I spoke to the club it was a no brainer to come back.
HOW DO YOU FEEL THE SEASON IS GOING SO FAR?
The season has probably started better than we had anticipated, especially with not much of a pre-season as well as trying to get the boys to gel quickly, so to have had the start we have had, it’s been enjoyable to be winning near on every week.
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR FOR YOU THIS SEASON?
For me the highlights so far are coming back and hitting form straight away and playing in such a competitive squad, and scoring against Margate was quite nice as well.
WHAT WAS YOUR TAKE ON THE BOXING DAY GAME AND DO YOU FEEL IT WAS A FAIR RESULT?
Boxing Day game, I feel we started quite slow and didn’t look at it, but once we settled we took control of the game and dominated. As the game went on we sat back a little bit too much and stopped playing our football. As for the result, it was a tight game with two very good teams competing. I would say we edged it, especially missing a chance to go 3-1 up, but we will take the point I guess.
CAN YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR CAREER BEFORE RAMSGATE AND YOUR TIME AT MAIDSTONE UNITED AND WELLING?
I started playing Essex Olympian league when I was younger and gradually worked my way up the ladder eventually with me playing national league before heading to New Zealand to play. I have always been a non-league player, and I don’t think there is a better place. Maidstone was a brilliant club and I loved my time there, such a loyal fan base and obviously it made it better winning the league with an incredible squad of players.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO AWAY FROM FOOTBALL IN YOUR FREE TIME?
Well, I have a 12 year old so we spend a lot of time together when I’m not playing. Me and my wife like to take our dogs on long walks now we live in the countryside, and I like to try and play golf, not that it goes to plan often..
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CRITICISM FROM FANS AND THE MEDIA?
I get called all sorts of things and stuff written in the past, but it’s just outside noise. Once I get to go home, I switch off. Football is my job and that’s where it stays, and unless my manager or team mates are criticising me, I don’t care.
YOU ARE DIRECTLY CONNECTED TO THE RAMSGATE YOUTH TEAMS AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF PLAYERS. COULD YOU TELL US A BIT ABOUT WHAT YOUR PART IS IN HELPING THE YOUTH SYSTEM?
When I first came back I was doing sessions with the academy u16s and was just trying to learn whilst living close to the stadium and giving them pointers to help them be better players. Now I have moved closer to Maidstone I can’t get up as much, but they are in good hands with all the coaches at the club.
WHO WERE YOUR IDOLS GROWING UP THAT MADE YOU WANT TO BECOME A FOOTBALLER?
My mum and dad have always been my idols. Every week I was at football with all my brothers watching my dad play football, probably 4 times a week, and when I started to play my mum and dad would be there trying to watch 4 games at once as we all was on different pitches in different age groups.
HOW DO YOU BALANCE YOUR PERSONAL LIFE WITH YOUR PROFESSIONAL COMMITMENTS?
[lol] I don’t balance it. I think my wife would tell you that football is on TV 24/7. I’m always watching it and trying to learn about the game. I’m 36 and still in good shape so can carry on a bit longer but my long-term plan is to manage so anything I can learn and pick up I will.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IS THE KEY TO SUCCESSFUL TEAMWORK ON THE PITCH?
If I’m honest the key to being successful on the pitch is connection between the owner, fans, manager, and players - and all pulling in the same direction. If I’m honest we haven’t fully got that 100% yet, but game by game it’s growing. The boys are backed heavily by James, Seb and Ben, so we have to give it back by competing week in and week out by delivering performances.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE IN YOUR
FOOTBALL CAREER, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
My biggest challenge… I wasn’t always the best footballer technically and having to learn that side of the game was the hardest, as I played low levels for quite a few years and people not believing in me. But I soon learnt to realise that, believe in yourself and anything is possible.
WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE OR MENTOR IN YOUR CAREER?
My biggest influence, I would say was my brothers. We are all quite similar in age and there is 6 of us, so competing day to day about anything and everything made me want to be the best. So, I guess they influenced me to push harder and never say die.
WHO IS THE MOST UNDERRATED PLAYER YOU’VE EVER PLAYED WITH/AGAINST?
Dominic Odusanya for me is one of the most underrated players I think I have played with, who I was with at Maidstone. The kid has got everything and most of all is a good human. By this time next year I expect to see him in the EFL.
DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL ROUTINE OR SUPERSTITION BEFORE YOU PLAY A BIG GAME?
Routing or superstitions, I will be here till the next Margate game reeling them off [lol]. I’m an overthinker but my biggest things are that I can’t be late, it’s my biggest hate. I have to walk out behind Tom or I’ll freak out, and I used to have to get a rub or my mind will lose itself, but I have that under control now.
NEWS UPDATE
BY BEN GREENHALGH
DECEMBER WAS A REASONABLY QUIET MONTH FOR US WITH THE INEVITABLE FIXTURE THAT WAS LOOMING ON THE BACK
OF EVERYONE’S MIND.
We had the first week off, which gave everyone a bit of time to rest for the busy Christmas period that was to come. After getting maximum points from Littlehampton and Steyning, we prepared for the Boxing Day fixture. The club prepared for a sellout crowd, and it proved to be a brilliantly organised occasion for the football community in Thanet.
On the pitch we were very disappointed to not put away our early chances, and I know Ben Allen is still wondering how the lineman gave him offside for such a good chance on his own through on goal. We were pretty confident at the time, but since watching back we’re not sure how they were ever given. Ramsgate went on to dominate the rest of the first half, however it seemed we wouldn’t concede until the final minute of the half. We couldn’t clear the area and the ball deflected past Tom Wray for us to go 1 down. We remained confident seeing as we had already had a few opportunities and we knew shooting into our fans always raises our performances. We earned a set piece out on the wide left and it seemed clear that Ramsgate were trying to avoid us getting into these positions, and it proved positive for us with Knighty heading the ball back across to Harry to nod it home. The scenes were something else. With Max scoring the equaliser at the end, it was great to end December at Hartsdown with a Big buzz, but we felt like we had the opportunities to take all the three points in the end.
A draw was probably a fair result and good for all of Thanet footballing community. We did manage to do one better two days later though and put on a brilliant performance away to East Grinstead. If anything, we were disappointed we didn’t put 5 or 6 past them, but a great clean sheet for Reece Hobbs; and after making six changes it was good to see how effectively the whole squad could be used!
© 2024 Oakley Photosport
“ANOTHER UNBEATEN MONTH AND A GOOD POINTS RETURN BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY GIVING OUR FANS SOMETHING TO CHEER ABOUT, AS OVER THE LAST TWO YEARS I CAN’T SAY THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD FOR FOOTBALL HAS BEEN THAT ENJOYABLE - AND IT’S BEEN A TOUGH ASK FOR OUR FANS TO WITNESS THOSE TIMES. SO TO KEEP EVERYONE THAT LITTLE BIT HAPPIER OVER CHRISTMAS IS THE THANKS THAT WE CAN OFFER FOR ALL FOR THE SUPPORT THEY HAVE GIVEN US SINCE WE TOOK OVER IN THE SUMMER AND PUT THIS NEW GROUP TOGETHER!!”
NEWS UPDATE
JAMES LAWSON RAMSGATE FC OWNER
AN UPDATE FROM RAMS OWNER JAMES LAWSON:
DECEMBER IS ONE OF THE BUSIEST MONTHS AT OUR FOOTBALL CLUB. THE NUMBERS AND SCALE OF WHAT WE OFFER IS HUGE AND WELL KNOWN, BUT PEOPLE AREN’T AS AWARE OF THE WORK THAT GOES ON BEHIND THE SCENES TO MAKE THE CLUB SO SUCCESSFUL.
Over the festive period, we welcomed our 2000th child to our holiday and food programme, passed 30,000 hot meals served, and issued over 1,000 hampers and presents. We also ended up taking more than 200 kids to see the pantomime.
The reality behind these numbers is incredible. Early on 23rd December I met Kerry Langley, who excellently runs our Bromstone HaF programme, to prepare for an audit we had that morning. On site was Ian Heath, unloading a truck load of food and drink that he had just collected on one of his many trips to Bookers.
At the same time, the amazing team in the kitchen at Bromstone, of Ed, Bev and Savinka, were preparing hundreds of packed lunches for the kids visiting the panto. They were also busy preparing Christmas party
food for the children enjoying our activities at Cliftonville and Southwood, as well as a Christmas dinner for all the children at our Newington programme.
The level of activity was simply incredible - and it continued later at Southwood where I met our fantastic media team, led by Roar Video’s Dan Whitehead. They were filming Alfie Paxman and Joe Taylor, who were leading the walking bus of 100 children on route to Granville Cinema.
Whilst all this was going on, we were enjoying a very successful period on the field. We took ten points out of a possible twelve, scoring 15 goals whilst only conceding 2. We also played in front of over 5,000 total fans over this period.
Again, people will not see the countless hours and depth in personnel that goes into achieving these numbers. Sean Hill and Darren Beale spend hours and hours every month analysing video footage, looking for that extra one percent that can make the difference between winning and losing. They review and analyse all this information with Ben, who uses it when making final decisions on team selection.
The month started with our first defeat of the campaign in a match notable for the dismissal of our goalkeeper Tom Hadler. A couple of postponed games meant that his suspension carried over into the Thanet derby, but we are fortunate to have the excellent Henry Newcombe as goalkeeping coach. He played extremely well in both the matches he was called into whilst Tom served his suspension.
Both of our festive home games had crowds of more than one thousand in attendance, which was exceptional given the torrential weather we faced when Deal visited the WW Martin Community Stadium.
These increased crowds really stretch our off-field team. Mid way through the second half of the AFC Croydon game, an exhausted looking Ian Heath stood next to me in the stand still wearing his apron, having prepared around two hundred cheese burgers and chips for our crowd from the stadium kitchen.
At the Deal game, Bill Penn had to finally admit defeat to the weather in his quest for jackpot ticket sales at kick off, as his clothes were so wet they threatened to drag him to the ground! Bill is one of the best salesmen I have ever come across, which I’m sure anyone who has been greeted by him at the stadium entrance with his raffle tickets in hand will concur with!
Another volunteer whose workload has increased exponentially with our increased crowds is our man on the turnstile, Ian Walker. The size of the crowd in the stadium tends to double between 2.45 and 3pm, which means Ian really does have his work cut out when over a thousand attend.
The same can be said for John Emmins in the stadium shop, who had a tremendous Christmas rush and must be seeing red polo shirts in his sleep!
A volunteer who has really risen to the increased crowds is our man on the PA Mick Twyman. Many in the crowd could be forgiven for thinking they are listening to a South American commentator when a Joeeeeee Taaaaaylor goal is announced by Mick!
The month also saw another set of sensational results from our under 16 Kent league side. Many of these lads now also represent Mark Buckingham’s Ramsgate Athletic side in the Kent County Premier division, which is step seven of the non-league football pyramid. The Steamers, as they are known, usually play at the WW Martin Community stadium when the first team are away. The team are very entertaining to watch, and entrance is very cheap - and free for season ticket holders and youth members - so it’s well worth a visit if you cannot travel away.
Image courtesy of AT Photography
MARGATE WOMEN’S TEAM NEWS FROM DECEMBER
AN UPDATE FROM DAVID WOODGATE
Heading into the Christmas period saw us start December with a cup game against Gravesham. Margate started slow but headed into the half-time break 2-1 up with goals from Elsley and Hall.
manager.
The 1st half saw chances created for both teams, and both goalies were on form with some decent saves.
The 2nd half saw a dominant Margate win 7-2 with some decent team and individual goals.
The team then travelled to high flying Tonbridge Angels.
Having had our Christmas drinks the day before, no one knew what to expect.
Margate started the game on the back foot against a well organised attacking Tonbridge. Some decent stops by Urban kept the score level.
On the 30th minute, Elsley took the ball and drove forward, releasing a shot that left the coaches questioning why she hit it from so far out. The ball flew into the top corner, giving Margate the lead
The 2nd half and a change in mentality from the team saw Margate again looking more dominant and controlling the game with some decent efforts.
Heading into the last 10 minutes, you could see the team was getting a little nervous with Tonbridge now stepping up a gear trying to get the equaliser.
Godden put the game beyond Tonbridge’s reach with a back post finish.
In the 65th minute, Maidstone took the lead after some poor defending from Margate, only for the linesman to raise his flag for a very close offside.
This sparked Margate into life and they started taking control of the game.
In the 86th minute Hall broke down the left wing and crossed into the box and a poor clearance from the Maidstone centre-back saw the ball fall to Elsley on the edge of the area, taking one touch she found the bottom corner.
Maidstone piled on the pressure, and a last-minute cross saw Charman direct the header towards her own goal, which forced Urban to show quick reactions to hold the ball well.
Margate Women handed a call-up to 16 year old Davies from the u18s team. Although we’re unable to give her game time on this occasion, it is a step in the right direction for the club.
December saw the Gate continue their fine form and showed the team has the grit and determination to continue into the new year.
“IT’S BEEN A FEW MONTHS OF MIXED EMOTIONS IN MY FIRST ROLE AS THE WOMEN’S MANAGER, BUT I HAVE ENJOYED EVERY MOMENT.
THE SUPPORT FROM THE COACHING TEAM, THE CLUB AND PLAYERS, HAS BEEN BRILLIANT.”
PLAYER OF THE MONTH FLEUR CHARMAN
Photos by Aaron Westgate Photography
RAMSGATE WOMENS UPDATE TEAM
CHLOE WATTS MANAGER
FROM THE LAST TIME WE CAUGHT UP WE FINISHED NOVEMBER SECURING THREE POINTS AGAINST BAYPOINT WITH A 9-0 WIN.
But as December goes for us, we only had one fixture and this we at home vs Lydd Town.
The last time we played Lydd, we made the long travel down to their ground and unfortunately came away beaten, and through that game we saw some injuries which resulted in players having to take time out.
But let’s talk about the reverse fixture! The game where they travelled to us. A game where we took the 3 points and left the game 3-1.
For 80 minutes of the game it was very much end-to-end, going into the final 10 minutes being 1-1, so the game really could have gone either way. There was a spark in them 10 minutes where our ladies were not going to give up without a fight, every pass, every tackle, they gave their all and all worked together to contribute to our final 2 goals, to leave the game 3-1.
Goal scorers for that game were: Gallia Yates, Courtney Spain & Maddie Pennington.
Player of the match for this game was a group selection. It was a game where every player contributed in some way, and gave a spark to the game, and it was something I couldn’t single anyone out for.
Maddie Pennington has now parted ways with the club, and we wish her all the best with her future endeavours.
We now go into our Christmas break, staying in 2nd place within the league, and fighting to stay top end of the table.
HEADING INTO JANUARY WE HAVE A FULL MONTH WORTH OF DIVISIONAL CUP GAMES, SO WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SUPPORTING US IN THE NEW YEAR!
(AWAY) SUNDAY 5TH JANUARY 2025 - HERNE BAY DEVELOPMENT (HOME) SUNDAY 12TH JANUARY 2025 - THE PLOUGH WHITSTABLE (AWAY) SUNDAY 26TH JANUARY 2025 - SELLINDGE
THE IN-BETWEEN XMAS AND NY GAME
WALKING FOOTBALL
RAMSGATE VS BAY CITY STROLLERS
(AKA RAMSGITS)
NO MATTER HOW OLD YOU GET AND HOW MUCH FOOTBALL YOU HAVE PLAYED THINGS STILL HAPPEN THAT SURPRISE YOU.
FIRSTLY, ONLY ONCE A LONG TIME AGO WHEN A STUDENT AT HULL, HAVE I PLAYED IN A GAME WHERE SEEING THE BALL WAS SO DIFFICULT BECAUSE OF THE MIST.
Today anything in the opposition half was either invisible or extremely murky. Secondly, in not too many games do you get such a contrast from a side being so in control of a game and scoring from their first 4 attempts, to a turnaround where they don’t score again in the following hour and concede 3. Such were the happenings at Southwood this morning.
Last year’s game was 13 aside; today we had enough for 16 aside. So, a great effort from both clubs to get so many out playing, with the ages ranging from Russel in his 30’s and taking part in his first Walking Football game, up to quite a few in their 70’s. In the first 20-minute quarter Bay City were on fire and the Ramsgits suffered. The ball was surrendered too easily and opponents not picked up. First up, a ball across our box just evaded a Bay City forward in the centre and up popped Chris LC in acres of space to slot home from a very acute angle. The old master goal scorer really did put it away calmly and skilfully. Then another Bay City goal scoring legend, this time from north of the border found space, worked his way through and finished with aplomb to make it 2-0. Next it was the Bay City youngsters turn to get involved in the goal scoring. Dave picked the ball up 30 - 35 yards from our goal, looked up, saw me off my goal line and chipped it in over my head. As it went straight over my head and hands I should have flipped it over or at least on to the bar, but I couldn’t find the leverage to get high enough or the speed to get back quickly enough. So, if that was good from Dave’s point of view, what followed shortly after was even better. A few yards closer to goal this time but not so central and with much less time, he brilliantly and instinctively curled the ball into the top right-hand corner of the net. Any Walking Football keeper over 60 who kept that out would have been bloody good. So, 4-0 at the end of the first quarter.
After that the men in yellow found a new lease of life and the game became a proper contest. First, after four running offences from the Bay City boys, Richard converted a penalty. The game was 4-1 and that’s how it remained at the end of the second quarter. The tide was beginning to turn: the third quarter saw 2 penalties. Dave’s hit the post and very unluckily for him stayed out while Simon Addley put away another one for us to bring it to 4-2. So, to the final 20 minutes with all to play for. Phil smacked one in for us making it 4-3. Bay City entered their contender for worst ever corner after 2 dangerous ones, but no more goals arrived, despite the hosts best efforts.
A fantastic occasion with both sides at times playing some quality passing football. Bay City just shaded it in terms of having greater mobility in their team and more clinical finishers, but the fact that I think everybody enjoyed it and got some competitive exercise and fresh - if misty – air, made it a thoroughly worthwhile event. So, well done both teams.
Thanks to Ramsgate FC for hiring us the pitch and opening the bar. Massive thanks to Chris Smith for coming along to referee once again, to Russel from the Thanet Football Magazine for guesting as a player for us, and to his photographer Cadan who took some in-game pictures - and of course to Rob C for organising the match. Thanks also to Owen for coming along to support us and to other family members who attended. We can’t wait for the next one.
BY ROB PUGH
WALKING FOOTBALL - CONTINUED
TFM REVIEW
RUSSEL (OWNER TFM) WAS INVITED TO PLAY IN THIS GAME ALONG WITH JESSE BIRDSALL (HOLLYOAKS, FOOTBALLERS WIVES).
Russel’s thoughts: “I was a bit apprehensive when asked to play walking football as a big part of my game is my speed. I thought it would be a lot slower than the conventional game, how I was mistaken. Even though there was an age difference between myself and the other players, the quality of the football and pace of the game was intense. The competitiveness was still there.
It took me a while to adapt my game and the urge to run was always present, but eventually I got into the flow and thoroughly enjoyed playing and getting an insight into walking football.
I’d like to thank Rob Pugh for the invite and I’m sure I will play walking football again in the future.”
Images courtesy of Cadan Photography
MID-SEASON REVIEWS BAY CITY STROLLERS
OVER 50’S
This is only the second season in the league for the over 50’s, which has seen us battling in the top half of the league with the bigger and more established teams - and we go into the Christmas break at the top of the league.
Although we have had some good results, beating the likes of Woodchurch and Range Rovers, and a 14-1 win over Sheppey Warriors, which was a club equalling record, we have had some tough matches; and a couple of games that we should have won at Canterbury and Herne Bay, where we had to settle for two draws as well as a couple of controversial decisions.
After our first season in the league, we lost three key players, but over the summer months our Captain, Dave Beale, has recruited several new players, including two goalkeepers - plus Darren, who can also take up the position of keeper if needed. Dave has also recruited a match day manager, Simon, who is helping immensely with the building of the squad, as well as important team decisions.
Our biggest downfall this season has been our lack of discipline on the pitch where we are conceding too many penalties through running, which has contributed to fifty percent of our goals conceded, and probably cost us the win at Canterbury.
All in all, we are still building as a team and learning from experiences gained from each game.
The over fifties league is becoming more stronger and more competitive with some good teams as well as individual players.
With one game left to play for the first round of the season, we are hoping to seal our position in the top five and compete for one of the top two spots in the second half of the season.
0VER 60’S
A very poor start to the season left us with no points from our first two games, losing at home to Ethelbert Wanderers 2-6 as we were caught a bit cold. To be fair, on the day our opponents did score some exceptional goals. Next up, away to Herne Bay - always a tough game, made more difficult with the strengthening of the Herne Bay squad. An even first half went goalless but three second half goals left us well beaten at 3-0.
We resisted the temptation to change our formation that served us so well last season, to then go on and win our next four matches. 3-2 at home to Canterbury followed by a 2-1 victory away to Ashford. Our best performance however was a 6-2 home win as we completely dominated the then league leaders, Woodchurch. Finally, an assured 5-2 away triumph to Whitstable. On the whole we have got to be delighted with our season to date, with only goal difference keeping us off second place.
OVER 50’S
MICKEY WILLIAMSON
I ALWAYS KNEW THAT I WANTED TO BE A PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALLER EVEN WHEN I WAS AT SCHOOL.
I even wrote to Derby asking if I could go for a trial with them. They wrote back to me saying they would keep me in their minds.
I left school at 15 then started my journey of football with my local club Ashbourne Town, which is only 13 miles away from
It was a good experience as it taught me a lot playing against older players.
I played about 3 years and in that time I went to Bolton Wanderers for a trial, but there were so many people you only played 15 minutes, so nothing came of it.
Then Derby County watched me for a few games and asked me to sign amateur form’s so I said I would play in the A side for a year getting more experience.
The following year they would always have a practice match at the start of the season, first team defence with reserves forwards against reserves defence with first team forwards. After the game the manager Harry Storer said he would like me to sign professional forms. So my dream had come true, it was what I always wanted.
Only thing was, I got injured in the closing minutes and when I went for an x-ray, I had cracked my fibula - so it wasn’t the best start.
MICKEY WILLIAMSON CONTINUED
In all I played 14 first team games.
Even though I remember them all, the one that stands out for me is when I played in the FA Cup 3rd round at Liverpool managed by the great Bill Shankly; and what a starstudded side they were.
Playing in front of the Kop with 46,000 people singing you’ll never walk alone, it was the best experience ever - even though we lost 5-0. It will always stick in my mind.
When I left Derby in1964 I had two offers to go and play in Australia.
It would have been an experience and life changing but we had only been married for a year, so we decided not to go because of leaving both of our families with it being so far away.
We’ll never know what might have been.
Instead in 64/65 we came down to Gillingham and stayed for two years.
In 1966 I came to Ramsgate with Dave Huddart and Terry Stacey who both played at Gillingham.
Les Riggs had just become Ramsgate’s manager as he had just left Gillingham.
So he asked all 3 of us to come down to Ramsgate, so we all signed.
They were in the Southern League then and that was the start of living in Ramsgate - and I’ve been here ever since. We had a very good side in those days, very good players with plenty of experience.
Some very good games, especially when we got to the league cup final against Margate. We had to beat Weymouth away, then we beat Yeovil at home in the semi-final, but fell short in the final after 3 games.
MICKEY WILLIAMSON CONTINUED
I’ve got loads of good memories over the years playing for Ramsgate and with all the players I’ve played with.
I’ve always tried to give my best for the club and for the supporters, who were very good to me.
After I left Ramsgate, I had a spell at Canterbury but things didn’t work out very well, so I left.
Then Sheppey asked me if I would go and play for them, so I went there for a little while.
At the end of the season, I had a phone call from my mate Brian Yeo who played for Gillingham saying that he had become the manager of Folkestone and would I like to be his number two. I was all for it, so I said yes.
Then out of the blue in 1975, Ramsgate phoned me to see if I would be interested in being the next manager which was a no brainer, and I said yes. This was in the old Kent League days.
It was very hard work playing and being manager but very pleasing working with all the local players to try and improve them.
I stayed for 3 years, then I resigned in 1978.
In all, over the two periods, I played 544 games and scored 205 goals, so I had a good career playing for Ramsgate.
When I left Ramsgate, I had a spell at Faversham which I enjoyed very much.
After I finished, I went into being a newsagent - which we had for 25 years and that was hard work, but very enjoyable.
I would like to say a few words about Joe Taylor who broke my goal scoring record of 50 goals in a season in 1968/69.
I spoke to Joe and congratulated him on beating my record and wished him all the best on his next achievement.
Joe will always score goals as you can tell a goal scorer. I said records are there to be broken, and the way he is going he’s going to beat it again and he will also beat my 205 goals.
I wish Ramsgate all the best to try and get promoted this year. I still go and support the Rams as I’m a season ticket holder but I have to go in the stands for a sit down now.
WISHING
JOE TAYLOR
Joe surpassed Mickey Williamson’s record of 50 goals in a season achieved in 68/69 and took him past Mickey’s total of 120 goals for the Rams.
WARREN SCHULZ
WE CAUGHT UP WITH RAMS LEGEND, TO GET HIS TAKE ON THE CURRENT RAMSGATE SQUAD AND ALL THEY HAVE ACHIEVED.
Firstly, I’d like to start by congratulating Ben and his team on an amazing job.
The current squad looks very impressive, they seem to be tight knit with a great dressing room, which is always important. They seem hard to beat, very well organised. The attacking football is very pleasing on the eye, and the way they defend as a team is impressive.
I think Ben has the perfect balance within the squad, local lads and experienced players blending well together. Rams really need promotion this year to push on with this squad.
I wish Ben and the players all the best for the rest of the season, COYR.
WARREN’S ALL-STAR 11 3-5-2
We asked Warren to put together a starting 11 comprised of the current Rams squad and players he played with at his time at Ramsgate to create an all-star 11.
EDD VAHID DEFENDER
TOM HADLER GOALKEEPER
OLLY SCHULZ DEFENDER
TJ JADAMA
JOE ELLUL DEFENDER
LEE MINSHUL MIDFIELD
WARREN SCHULZ
MIDFIELD (CAPTAIN)
ALFIE PAXMAN
MIDFIELD
WELFORD STRIKER
SHAUN
A FEW WORDS FROM MARK BUCKINGHAM RAMSGATE ATHLETIC
Since myself, Jimmy and George were announced as the management team for Ramsgate Athletic back in last week of October 2024, a lot has happened. We started off with the biggest win of the season so far for any team in the league and our goal scoring ability has not stopped; and we find ourselves the highest goal scorers in the league.
This is no surprise to us or the players, as our philosophy is to be exciting on the ball, and that for us is to attack and entertain. After 3 games we found ourselves with a high turnover of players, with an influx of new young exciting players ready to make their first steps into men’s football, alongside some existing excellent young men. From this point this team, these talented young lads, have clicked, and they have not looked back. Results have been good, but the performances have been excellent. With each week passing
the levels are improving and players maturing. As I finish writing this we have just played Peckham Town, winning 4-1 with an average age of just 17 in the squad. This win has made it 5 wins in 9 games.
As a club we have set ourselves a target with what we want to achieve, alongside player development for these local players. Our links with Ramsgate Football club are going to help us build on the foundations we have set and allow us to grow, meaning targets, expectations and chances of playing higher and developing players can rise as well.
The progress in such a small amount of time has been remarkable. We now have players aged 16-19 who have represented Ramsgate 1st team and achieving minutes at that level. Over half the squad are now also dual signed to
Image courtesy of AT Photography
the Ramsgate 1st team squad due to the belief we have in these young lads, but what’s more is that now everyone is talking about Ramsgate Athletic in their own rights. Crowds are creeping up and our profile is building.
Steve and Colin had a dream and an ambition to build a club and team full of exciting young players, preparing them for a long life within non-league or league football, and along the way taking this club as high as they can go. This is not going to stop. We have now built something alongside Ramsgate FC that is unique and a model that I am sure is going to be successful, and I for one cannot wait to see its results.
I will finish on this. We have been described as a bunch of teenagers lost on a school trip arriving to a ground, to a
youthful group of 16-19 years old who are a credit to the club; but after every game the opposition give these young lads the credit and respect they deserve.
LET THE JOURNEY CONTINUE
Mark RAMSGATE ATHLETIC MANAGER
LANTHORNE FC
WE ESTABLISHED LANTHORNE FC IN 2019 AND WITH THAT WE STARTED IN THE BOTTOM DIVISION OF THE THANET SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE, NOT KNOWING WHAT TO EXPECT AS COLLECTIVELY WE HADN’T PLAYED SUNDAY LEAGUE FOOTBALL FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS.
The first season was 75% done and then COVID hit the Country, but we were undefeated. I have no qualms that we would’ve gone the whole season that way also, as the way we had performed that season, the league decided to promote us to Division 1 to test us. But again (not to be big headed) we were far too good for that league also, finishing the league playing 18 games - winning 16, drawing 1 and losing 1 also.
Entering the 2021/22 and our first in the top division in the area, we finished a very respectable 3rd in our first season. After a few mid table finishes and no joy in cups,
another Sunday league team approached me at the end of 2022/23 season telling me they were having to fold, but 5 or 6 players would like to come over to us and merge. After some thought and some being mutual friends with some of our lads, I decided to sign all of them - and what a decision it was.
Entering last season with a very new look squad, I was sceptical but quietly confident of what we could achieve as a squad. After starting the season with a few defeats coming into 2024 in all cups, we went on an unbeaten run for many games, which saw us into the quarter final of the Kent and Challenge cups and the semi-finals of the Premier cup. We hosted current Kent cup champions Market Hotel at Jackey Bakers which was a truly amazing game, even if we were the losing team on the day. 2 late goals from the Munday brothers sent us all the way to penalties which we unfortunately lost out on. But even though we lost, I knew we had a special squad and knew we could achieve something great last year.
After winning in 2 consecutive semi-finals, we got the chance to do a domestic double in the Premier and the Challenge cups, in which we achieved superbly, winning the finals 3-2 and 2-0 respectively, and crowning off the season as double champions and our biggest accomplishments to date.
SUNDAY LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT CONTINUED
LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK TO IT IN 2025 WHERE WE LOOK TO DEFEND BOTH CUPS IN THE BACK END OF THIS SEASON.
A BIG THANK YOU TO SAMMY AND ALL OF THE STAFF AT THE LANTHORNE PUB FOR SUPPORTING US AND LOOKING AFTER US AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY.
Connor Brownlee
LANTHORNE FC MANAGER
Images courtesy of Aaron Westgate Photography
NEW YEAR, NEW YOU?
If you’re looking to surprise and inspire people in 2025, then we offer charity challenges to help you meet your new year goals.
From half marathons and cycling events, to skydives and inflatable obstacle coursessigning up will mean you are making a difference where it is needed the most across our hospitals.
Tackle something you never thought you would this year, and support a great cause.
FUTSAL TOURNAMENT
WRITTEN BY NIK LA’PLAIN
WHEN YOU THINK FUTSAL, WHAT’S THE FIRST THAT COMES TO MIND?
Exciting football played by South American superstars in exotic locations and beautiful sunshine? Possibly, but what you wouldn’t expect is a cold January afternoon in a Birchington school hall.
But that’s exactly what happened, with youth teams taking to the court to play the fast paced five aside game.
Developed in Uruguay in the 1930s as a way to play football indoors, it was the perfect antidote to the winter break. Using a harder, lower bounce ball, the sport aims to encourage more passing and a creative game play with flair.
And that was what we got. All age groups played fast, exciting football, with lots of goals and great skills to blow the post-Christmas blues away. The tournament was made up of teams from Ramsgate FC, Woodnesborough, Baypoint and Football IQ squads, who all played fantastic football.
With a tournament win up for grabs the u7/u8 age groups got us started, playing free flowing football with skills and goals galore. Although young in age, they provided us with football well above their years, with the football IQ team winning the event against a tough Ramsgate Oranges team, coming a respectful second.
Nick Baker who manages the Ramsgate Yellow u8s said “The tournament was really well organised, and all the children looked like they enjoyed it. Even when teams weren’t playing they watched and cheered on everyone else. The atmosphere was so positive”.
“IT’S GREAT FOR YOUTH FOOTBALL TO HAVE THE FACILITIES TO BE ABLE TO PLAY FUTSAL IN A FUN FAST PACED WAY, ALLOWING THE PLAYERS TO SHOW THEIR ABILITIES IN A NEW WAY.”
WOODNESBOROUGH MANAGER JACK TREVELLION
CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 >>>
Finlay who plays for the Ramsgate Yellows backed it up by saying “I loved playing in the tournament, it was different from what I was used to but I can’t wait to play again”.
Next up was the turn of the u9/u10 teams. Unfortunately, a couple of teams were unable to make the event so the Ramsgate Black U9s and Ramsgate Indigo U10s chose to split their teams, allowing the lads more time on the pitch. The games were as expected at this age and were played at breakneck speed. All the players were using the opportunity to try new skills and techniques that the sport allows. The heavier ball meant it stayed on the ground more, increasing dribbling, passing and tackles. Not that a few top corner goals weren’t scored, and the goalkeepers from every team showed us why they are so good at their chosen position, flying through the air, even with a hard wooden floor below them. The event was won by Ramsgate Indigo U10s with the runners up spot going to Woodnesborough Red U9s.
Although there was ultimately only one winner, all the kids enjoyed the event and talked about the tricks, goals, and saves they made during the matches. All will be hoping to go one step further at the next event.
The event was organised by Football IQ, who run an academy out of Ramsgate Football Club. IQ coach Tom Hickman said “The launch of the IQ Futsal tournament was a huge success and saw teams enter from around East Kent. Futsal is a fast-paced sport and is a great way to develop skills that can transfer into football”. He continues “We will be running weekly coaching sessions on Friday evenings during term time and hosting regular tournaments at the IQ sports hubs in Westgate and Birchington”. Football IQ coach and kids’ hero TJ Jadama said he would like to thank all the teams that came along to participate. It was a great event with some great players on display.
So, for a way to get them away from the computer after Christmas and burn of the chocolate calories, I can think of no better way to start the New Year. I am looking forward to watching the players use these news skills in their league games and can’t wait for the next tournament.
UNDER 9/10’S WINNERS
RAMSGATE INDIGO U10’S
RUNNERS UP WOODNESBOROUGH RED U9
UNDER 8’S WINNERS
MARGATE U23’S YOUTH TEAM FOCUS
MARGATE FC U23S ENDED 2024 ON A HIGH, UNDEFEATED IN THEIR LAST 8 LEAGUE AND CUP MATCHES, PROPELLING THEM UP THE SOUTHERN COUNTIES EAST DEVELOPMENT LEAGUE TABLE AND TO A QUARTER FINAL CLASH AWAY TO FAVERSHAM IN THE KENT INTERMEDIATE CUP.
TUR HOXHA MANAGER
CHRIS MILLS COACH
PAUL MEADE COACH
So far this has been a good first half of the season for new manager Tur Hoxha and his coaching team of Chris Mills and Paul Meade.
They have assembled a very young and exciting squad with great assistance from U18 coach and former U23 boss Paul Lamb.
With their remit of creating a professional playing environment to support, develop and progress players to create first team opportunities, they have certainly hit some of those targets. Many past and present have signed first team forms with not only some making the Margate first team squad and some training with Ben and his squad, but others gaining excellent experience with Deal Town FC, Canterbury City FC, Minster FC, Heybridge Swifts FC and Woodnesborough FC.
Due to this progression there’s been a very local positive interest with fans who regularly attend home games, as well as support from Thanet Football Magazine, and most recently being invited by Academy FM radio for an interview to express how U23s are developing.
Thanet as a whole have some fantastic local talent, but the coaching team are fully aware of how difficult it is to make the transition from youth, to U23, to first team, and therefore they not only support with their football development but also the challenges and different expectations on and off the field.
There is certainly a buzz around Hartsdown Park with a very positive rejuvenated first team, U23s development, and youth section continuing to coach the youngsters of the future.
We look forward to an even better 2025 and wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Written by the Margate
Coaching Team
HISTORY OF MARGATE FC
WEBSITE DEDICATED TO THE HISTORY OF MARGATE FOOTBALL CLUB RELAUNCHED
Supporters of Margate Football Club – and football lovers in general who are interested in the sport’s past – are invited to explore a relaunched history website dedicated to the club at https://www.margatefootballclubhistory.com/
The original Margate Football Club History website, painstakingly created by Jeff Trice more than 20 years ago, drew plaudits from across the football world. After a period of inactivity, the site, which is independent of the club, has been updated and enhanced with a small team – that included former Margate FC chairman Gordon Wallis who died in October 2024spending a year working on it.
It includes details of every competitive match played since the club’s formation in the 19th Century until this season. There are also more than 1,100 in-depth player profiles (some of whom also played at the highest level of the sport), reports on memorable matches, special features, galleries of images as well as player and supporter memories.
Learn how Margate became Arsenal’s nursery club in the 1930s or the night England’s World Cup-winning trio of Hurst, Moore and Peters played at Hartsdown Park.
One of the supporters who is working on the new site, Jeremy Jacobs, said: “It is very sad that Gordon did not live to see the launch of the history site but we are sure he would have felt very proud that the club he loved has such a comprehensive chronicle of its rich history.
Work will continue on the site and Margate supporters who have information, memories or memorabilia about the club are invited to contact the website team at: https://www.margatefootballclubhistory.com/contacting-margate-football-club-history/
“IT
SOME OF THE CROWD AT THE HALL BY THE SEA GROUND (DREAMLAND) FOR MARGATE’S MATCH IN MARCH 1913 AGAINST ROYAL HOUSE ARTILLERY CANTERBURY IN THE MARGATE & DISTRICT CHARITY CUP. MARGATE WON 3-2.
SUNDAY LEAGUE NEWS
HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF ALL THE ACTION WEEK BY WEEK FOR MILES & BARR THANET SUNDAY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
WEEK 14 ROUND UP
Red Arrows kept alive their hopes of qualification by beating Monkton 6-2, Steven Godden and Lukasz Olubek both scoring two goals each.
December opened with the latest round of matches in the Chris Sear Memorial Competitions.
In Group A of the Chris Sear Cup, goals from Spencer Cove and Louis Michael gave Lanthorne a 2-0 win against 19th Hole to reach the knockout stages of the competition.
Windmill reached the latter stages in style with a 7-0 win over Lesters Athletic, Sonny Newman hitting a hat trick and two each for Johnny Symaka and Joshua Wood. Another side into the quarter finals are Hussar after a 6-1 win against Frames United, David Greig and Danny McGovern scoring twice each with Steven Ball and Steven Lennon scoring one apiece.
In Group B there were twelve goals as Kings United beat Macies 8-4 to advance to the quarter finals, Danny Martin and Zack Thomas both getting hat tricks. TWS Cramptons confirmed their place in the last eight with a 3-0 win over Counting House, Oliver Sexton getting all three goals.
In the Chris Sear Memorial Shield Group A, FC Inter Westgate maintained their 100% record with a narrow 3-2 win over The Vale, Daniel Draper, Luke Sanderson and Joe Drury all on the scoresheet for Inter Westgate whilst David Crane scored both for The Vale. A hat trick from Paul Jarman and two from Gene Vizzard helped Westgate Social Club to a 5-2 win against Thanet Athletic. A solitary Will Latter goal gave Franklins a 1-0 win against Prince Albert as they recorded their first win to keep their chances of qualifying alive.
In Group B, Shrimpos stay on course to reach the last eight after a 6-1 win against Aussie Arms, Gareth Rushton with a hat trick in the victory. Northwood moved up to fourth in the table after goals from Joseph Jordan and a Michael Moore brace gave them a 3-2 win against Holman Carpentry.
The points were shared in the match between Sandwich Town and Westwood as it finished 1-1, Dan Hamer netting for Sandwich with Marc Beresford getting the Westwood goal.
WEEK 15 ROUND UP
The League on the whole had great success in the Kent Cup last weekend.
TWS Cramptons reached the last 16 of the Kent Sunday Premier Cup after a 3-0 win against Red Lion Dover, Samuel Belsey, Tom McGuirk and Oliver Sexton getting the goals. Windmill were also successful in reaching the last 16 as they beat Druid 4-1 in the Kent Sunday Junior Cup, Sonny Newman scoring twice and one each for Joshua Lowther and Joshua Wood. Lesters Athletic defeated Garden 4-1 in the all Thanet tie in the Kent Sunday Junior Trophy, the goals coming from Jamie Coot, Nathan Fowler, Tate Lee-Ayres and Joseph Tremble. Shrimpos bowed out of the Kent Sunday Junior Trophy as they lost out to a strong Bekesbourne team.
There was only one match in the Premier Division and Kings United took full advantage to extend their lead to six points after a thumping 12-2 win against Frames United, Zack Thomas and Danny Martin both getting four goals each in the victory.
FC Inter Westgate moved up to second place in the First Division after beating Westwood 3-0, Niall Ashmore, George Fright and Joe Drury getting the goals. Westgate Social Club defeated Red Arrows 3-2 to keep in touch with the teams at the top, Dan Howard, Ryan Kennedy and Lee Tregaskes on the scoresheet for Westgate with Brad Kelly and Scott Sweetingham netting for Red Arrows.
A brace from David Crane helped The Vale to a 4-0 win against Aussie Arms to move them up to third in the Second division table, Stephen Buttigieg-Horrigan and Joshua Miles getting the other two goals. A solitary goal from Joe Lawless was enough to give Thanet Athletic the points in their match against Prince Albert.
WEEK 16 ROUND UP
The last weekend before the Festive break saw a watereddown fixtures schedule as several teams had booked the weekend off for their Christmas parties.
The two outstanding Kent Cup ties postponed from the previous week were played but sadly both Macies and Franklins bowed out of their respective Cups. The only match in the Premier Division ended in a 1-1 draw between Counting House and Lanthorne. Harvey Tate opened the scoring for Lanthorne before Liam Roddam equalised for Counting House.
Red Arrows moved up to third in the First Division table after a 4-2 win against FC Inter Westgate, Luke Calder, Steven Godden, Harry Leer and Hadley Williams all getting one goal each whilst Daniel Draper and Lewis Lintern scored for Inter Westgate. Goals from Alex Dickinson, Malcolm Pocock and Danny Wright-Airs earned Westwood a 3-2 win over Westgate Social Club whose goals were both scored by Dan Howard.
Images courtesy of Aaron Westgate Photography
DECEMBER OVERVIEW
Shrimpos moved top of the Second Division in style as they defeated Aussie Arms 11-0, Travis Edwards getting four goals, Semon Murphy grabbed a hat trick with Jimmy Duncan, Gareth Rushton and Jacob Tilbury getting the other goals. Sandwich Town remain unbeaten and end the year in third place after a double from Luke Howe and one from Sheldon Lloyd saw them record a 3-0 win against Prince Albert.
HALF SEASON REVIEW
Kings United would seemingly have one hand on the Premier Division Trophy as they enter the Festive break nine points clear of their closest challengers TWS Cramptons. Last season’s Champions, Counting House, are third in the table ten points off the lead but do have a game in hand. Kings also have the Division’s top scorer in Zack Thomas who has hit 22 goals in ten appearances so far. Lesters Athletic hold the advantage in the First Division as they’re a point clear at the top and have games in hand on those teams sat in second and third, FC Inter Westgate and Red Arrows. Hussar are fourth, four points off the lead but with two games in hand. Westgate Social Club are sat in sixth place but are level on points with Red Arrows in third place. Easy Scaff are ninth on twelve points but are only
four points behind third place. With the second half of the season getting underway in January, there will be plenty of movement in this Division and a very intriguing conclusion in store. Monkton’s Matt Hardy is the Division’s top scorer with 18 goals so far.
Shrimpos sit two points clear at the top of the second division and have a game in hand, they’ve currently not lost this season but are being hunted down. Garden Bar are second and are having a fantastic season after the tough season they endured last campaign. Sandwich Town are third and haven’t lost in the league this season so far. The Vale, Thanet Athletic, Holman Carpentry and Franklins will all feel they’ve got a chance to get into the top three with a decent second half of the season. Shrimpos also have the Division’s top scorer as Gareth Rushton has notched 20 goals in his 10 appearances.
We also have the Chris Sear Memorial Cup and Shield, Challenge Cup, Challenge Trophy and Divisional Cups to conclude in the second half of the season as we build towards what is shaping up to be a very exciting conclusion to the 2024-2025 season.
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