6thoct05

Thursday 06th October 2005

Ramsgate is the place to be, says Ward
EXCLUSIVE

Ramsgate manager Jim Ward has warned his players they could be suffering from headaches after their FA Cup third qualifying round tie with Ryman Premier League side Walton & Hersham on Saturday, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Ryman League Division One side are only two points behind leaders and Kent rivals Tonbridge Angels, and go into this game confident.

"I know what we are expecting from them," Ward revealed in an EXCLUSIVE interview with www.kentishfootball.co.uk

"Everyone in my side will have a sore neck. I've already told my centre halves to expect to be heading the ball away all day. They do like to knock it long, and to be fair, they're a big side.

"I felt they were very good in midfield and strong at the back and don't let in many goals.

"But we are what we are - we are Ramsgate - and we will give it our best shot."

Ward admits everyone is relishing this FA Cup clash against the side that knocked out AFC Wimbledon in the last round.

"Being confident of winning is always the way I've played my games," said the Scot.

"You can only beat the team that's put in front of you, whether you are playing Sunday mornings or a big FA Cup tie like this.

"We will relish the challenge, it's great for Ramsgate Football Club to be involved in such a big match - no doubt Walton & Hersham feel the same."

Ramsgate go into this game with only one injury (Dean Hill) and with a 1-0 win over second placed Horsham fresh in their minds.

Warren Schulz's ninth minute goal settled a fierce clash on Tuesday night at Southwood Stadium.

"We had a great result," said Ward. "It was a proper Ramsgate performance, no quarter given or asked. You had to stand up and be counted and everyone to a man done that."

With his side sitting nicely in third place in the table, Ward added: "There's a great feeling of entertainment and enjoyment around the place. Ramsgate is certainly the place to be at the moment."

Ramsgate v Walton & Hersham
FA Cup Third Qualifying Round
Saturday 8th October 2005
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Southwood Stadium, Prices Avenue, Ramsgate