Ryman League insist fans have to pay to watch rearranged Kent derby

The secretary of Tonbridge Angels have announced that fans will not receive free admission for the visit of Kentish rivals Ramsgate on Tuesday night, writes Stephen McCartney.

The original game at the end of last year was abandoned after 68 minutes due to a waterlogged pitch, with Ramsgate winning 2-0 at the time, but the Ryman League insist fans must pay on the night to watch the rematch.

“I have been in discussions with the Ryman League about the issue of free admission for Tuesday night’s game,” said Mr Charlie Cole.

“I have agreed this course of action with Ramsgate and the following message will appear in the programmes for the games against AFC Wimbledon and Ramsgate fully explaining the Ryman League requirements.

“We have been advised by the Ryman League that it is not possible to allow free admission to the game against Ramsgate.

“We have been instructed by the Ryman League to share the game proceeds with Ramsgate.

“Normal admission prices will therefore be applied for this game, and season tickets accepted.

“Both FA and League rules are clear that in the case of abandoned games, refunds should only be made in the event that the original game is stopped before 45 minutes have elapsed.

“This was not the case in the first game on 30th December, 2006, as this game was stopped after some 68 minutes".

The two Kent sides welcome two sides that are currently in the top four in the table. Third placed side Hampton & Richmond Borough visit Southwood Stadium against a Ramsgate side that are in seventh, but just one point below the play-off zone.

And fourth placed side AFC Wimbledon play Tonbridge Angels that are in tenth place.

Tonbridge Angels have also confirmed that there will NOT be segregation for the game - but advise both sets of supporters to arrive at the ground early to avoid congestion.