Wingate & Finchley’s winless run in the Ryman Premier stretched to five games after the Blues suffered a 2-0 defeat at home to promotion hopefuls Margate.

After a shaky start, the Blues grew into the game and new signing Wayne O’Sullivan curled a shot wide from the edge of the area.

In the second period, Wingate had to defend well against intense pressure from Margate and the visitors should have gone ahead when Tommy Whitnell had a free header saved.

However, the ball was not properly cleared and an Alex Rhodes cross was headed in by John Beales from close range.

Wingate pushed forward in search of an equaliser and O’Sullivan skipped past two defenders before firing over the bar.

The decisive moment came in the final few minutes when a Rhodes wide free-kick flew through the crowded box and went straight into the net to secure a win for the visitors.

The Blues are at home this Saturday as they host Hampton & Richmond.