Concerned Ward in desperate race for replacement goalkeeper

Thursday 13th August 2009

RAMSGATE boss Jim Ward says he has a goalkeeping crisis ahead of their mouth-watering opening day clash against Fleet Town on Saturday, writes Stephen McCartney.

Number one goalkeeper Shaun Alliston has injured his hand during training and concerned Ward is desperate to find a replacement on loan as he doesn’t want to throw eighteen-year-old Brett Mills in for the Ryman League Division One South opener.

“I’m trying to bring someone in quickly, but there’s nobody out there,” Ward told www.kentishfootball.co.uk ahead of the Southwood Stadium showdown.

“I’ve got young Brett, the boy’s only 18 but it’s hardly fair to chuck him in. I’ve been on the phone to try and bring someone in for a month, but that hasn’t materialised yet, so I’m a bit desperate at the moment.

“I’m not talking about playing Brett, it’s not fair on the lad.

“If I’ve got a chance of getting somebody I will sign somebody. If there’s anybody out there? Get in touch!

Looking forward to locking horns with Andy Sinton’s Fleet side, Ward is confident that relegated Ramsgate have enough in their locker to get their campaign off to a winning start.

“Even though we have won one game in pre-season, I’m pleased with the squad,” said Ward.

“I’m nice and positive, you’re apprehensive but you’re positive at the same time with the way we’re going to go so yes, I can’t wait for the real stuff to start.

“Fleet are one of the favourites without a doubt, so it will be lovely to get off to a good start on Saturday.”

And he added: “It’s early days. I’m more concerned about my set of players than anybody else’s. We’ve worked on set pieces in the last two sessions. Our fitness is good, we are where we should be at this time of the year.

“I’m pleased with the squad I’ve got; my budget dictates where I am but I’m not worried about that. We are where we are. We’re fine. We have got to get off to a good start.

“If I can get into those play-off’s I’ll be delighted. That’s the target this year.”

Ward briefly spoke about his side’s trip to Whyteleafe next Tuesday, saying, “I don’t know much about Whyteleafe. I know last time we were in the division I think we won and it was very difficult.”

Visit Ramsgate’s website: www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk

Ramsgate v Fleet Town

Ryman League Division One South

Saturday 15th August 2009

Kick Off 3:00pm

At Southwood Stadium, Prices Avenue, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 0AN