Margate boss Mark Stimson questions their festive Isthmian Premier schedule – with Gate without a game on Saturday before busy period of three matches inside six days

Boss Mark Stimson has questioned Margate’s festive schedule.

Isthmian Premier strugglers Gate are without a competitive clash this Saturday but then have three matches inside a week, starting with a 1pm Boxing Day game at Cray Wanderers.

Stimson said: “I’m not quite sure why we’re not playing on Saturday. Then, players can spend more time with their families [over Christmas].

“But you have to go along with the rules and, hopefully, we can get more points.”

The division’s only weekend encounter sees Hornchurch - Stimson’s former club - host Canvey Island.

Stimson would be interested to know who within the Isthmian League decided the festive calendar and why managers aren’t asked for their thoughts on such matters.

He added: “It’s absolutely crazy.

“Whoever decided that, I would like to know who they are. I would also like to know why managers aren’t asked.

“Hornchurch are playing Canvey Island on Saturday now. That helps get more spectators, as well.

“It’s tradition to play on Boxing Day, isn’t it? Sometimes, in life, common sense isn’t used enough.

“If you want to have another game (as well as playing on Saturday), then that can be Boxing Day.

“But, for me, 3pm on a Saturday is football.”

A late goal denied Margate a first win under Stimson at home to fellow strugglers Kingstonian last weekend - although they did earn their first point since the 55-year-old took the helm at Hartsdown Park with a 2-2 draw thanks to second-half strikes by Tyrone Sterling and Steve Cawley.

“The first half was quite cagey,” Stimson reflected. “We hit the woodwork and had one cleared off the line but we cleared one off the line, as well. Unfortunately, minutes into the second half, we fell behind.

“But credit to the players. They replied