Home   Thanet   Sport   Article

Sittingbourne boss Ryan Maxwell accuses Margate of lying to fans after Kent derby postponed due to electrical issues | Gate reject claims, insisting they did everything they could to get the game on

Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell has accused Margate of telling lies after the Kent rivals’ top-of-the-table meeting was postponed.

Gate cited electrical issues when announcing Tuesday night’s Isthmian South East fixture at Hartsdown Park had been called off.

Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell. Picture: Ian Scammell
Sittingbourne manager Ryan Maxwell. Picture: Ian Scammell

Maxwell, writing on X, claimed Margate didn’t want to play due to a player shortage.

“Game off due to Margate having 13 fit players NOT floodlight issues,” he said.

“DON’T lie to fans!! You were offered to have them fixed, reverse the fixture, even play at Herne Bay. Very poor.

“Glad we are proper, Sittingbourne, and respect our fans’ hard-earned money.”

Margate responded in a statement on X, refuting the claims.

“Apologies to our supporters, and supporters of Sittingbourne, who were looking forward to tonight's game,” said Gate.

“Despite rumours suggesting otherwise, we did everything possible to get the game on.

“Significant preparation goes into a match day such as this, this situation is certainly not convenient for us.

“We have an almost fully fit squad, with only two concerns, and the players were prepared, focused and ready to bounce back from Saturday as soon as possible!

“The electrical issues are affecting our floodlights.

“There are floodlights that are partially illuminated.

“However, these do not meet the minimum levels required for the game to go ahead.

“We continue works to rectify the issues, and return full reliable floodlighting.”

The postponement allowed Ramsgate to extend their lead over Sittingbourne at the top of Isthmian South East to five points after winning 3-2 at Littlehampton.

Margate, beaten 2-1 at home by Sevenoaks at the weekend, are a further seven points back in third.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More