Ward hopes 2007 will be another successful year for Rams - EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Ramsgate manager Jim Ward is currently in negotiations with four new players as he aims to finish this season in the Ryman Premier League play-off positions, writes Stephen McCartney.

The Rams enjoy a very lucrative festive period with Staines Town visiting Southwood Stadium on Saturday before the mouth watering “Battle of Thanet” on Boxing Day.

“Very difficult isn’t it?” Ward said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk as he prepares his side for the calm before the storm on Saturday.

“They’re one of the form teams in the league so we have to be right at it to get three points on Saturday.”

Ward, however, is keeping fully focused on the job in hand as minds could sway to the home showdown with Margate on Boxing Day (1pm).

“My mind is to sign a player for Saturday so that’s where I stand at the moment,” said Ward. “I’m only interested in getting us back up the table as well.”

He revealed: “I’m looking at four players over the county. If I don’t get them this side of Christmas, I may have to wait until after.”

The Scot explained what he is looking for as he looks to bolster his squad.

He said: “A bit more experience, a bit more strength. That’s what we’re looking for.

“No-one will be guaranteed to get in the side, they will have to fight for their place.”

Ward reflected on the past year and a bit and is pleased with what the club has achieved.

“2006 couldn’t been any better than it was, that’s for sure,” he beamed. “Let’s hope 2007 gets us close as last year.

“Last year was probably the best year in the history of Ramsgate Football Club, winning the Ryman League Division One and also getting into the FA Cup first round proper and then ending the year in the play-off positions in the Ryman League premier.

“It’s a magnificent achievement and everyone at Ramsgate Football Club should be patting themselves on the back.

“It’s not just the playing staff, it’s everyone. It’s not just a one man show. The committee, and the people behind the scenes, it’s been a remarkable achievement for a club like us.

“It doesn’t stop there. Nobody at this club are to sit on their laurels. We want to move forward again. We want to be competing for the top five positions in the league and have some fun in the play-off’s in April.”

With a fully fit squad, the Rams are relishing the Boxing Day visit of Margate.

Ward added: “The Margate game is fantastic. It will be the highlight of everybody’s Christmas. Everybody is looking forward to it. What else can you say? It’s something you wouldn’t have imagined two years ago.”

www.kentishfootball.co.uk will be covering this match.

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

Ramsgate v Staines Town
Ryman Premier League
Saturday 23^rd December 2006
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Southwood Stadium, Prices Avenue, Ramsgate