Margate look to be facing an uphill strauggle to keep their Ryman League Premier Division status.

Gate fielded a new-look side against relegation rivals Waltham Abbey at Hartsdown Park on Saturday, but still suffered a resounding defeat.

The visitors took the lead after 22 minutes when Ricci Crace was on target following a corner.

New Gate keeper Jamie Turner (pictured) saved a penalty early in the second half, before Crace got his second of the afternoon with a superb volley after 64 minutes.

A fine George Chanda solo effort with three mintes left completed a miserable afternoon for Gate.