Rams Too Casual At Home - Ramsgate vs. Walton Casuals

Ramsgate attack in the first half

Last weekend I had intended to watch the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round tie between Hemel Hemstead Town and Sutton United. However, after deciding that I didn't fancy dealing with a large crowd and realising I hadn't seen a game by the sea for a little while I opted for the Ryman Division One South match between Ramsgate and Walton Casuals. Both sides were having good seasons, Walton sat at the top of the table while Ramsgate were just outside of the play offs. I have previously visited Walton's Waterside Stadium for an FA Cup qualifier against Selsey four seasons ago.  

Just before kick off at The Southwood Stadium

It is the hosts who have the first meaningful foray in to the penalty area but the winger's touch is heavy and the keeper is able to claim. The Ramsgate keeper is then called in to action for the first time as he saves a half volley after the referee had played a good advantage. A few minutes later, the Ramsgate winger loses his marker with a good turn but his cross is behind all his team mates. They come even closer when a free header is directed straight to the keeper. The Walton centre forward then shows how it is done when he places a far post header past the goal keeper after a deep cross from the right. Casuals then create a second chance when the winger gets to the byline but his cross is hit too hard and it eludes everyone. The home side then get on level with a close range finish. Remarkably the hosts go in to half time in the lead as they score a second just before the break. 

A Ramsgate attack breaks down in the first half

The second half kicks off in extremely blustery conditions and it is again the home side who have the first chance of the half as a deflected effort is claimed by the visiting keeper. Walton then come close as the Ramsgate keeper makes a great save with his feet. The visitors are then given an even better chance to equalise when they are awarded a penalty which also sees a Ramsgate sent off. The penalty is dispatched via the keeper's hand and the post. The Ramsgate keeper then keeps his side level with a great save from header following a Walton corner. Ramsgate then have a few chances of their own with a good free kick and when a Walton defender deflects the ball on to his own post. Walton then retake the lead with just over ten minutes left with a driven effort from the edge of the area. Ramsgate try their best to get an equaliser but Walton hold to keep top spot.

Ramsgate kick towards their fans in the second half

High speed trains to Ramsgate depart from St Pancras and the journey takes just over an hour and a half. Slower trains depart from Charing Cross but this journey takes well over two hours. The ground is then about an half hour walk from the station. As I was at the seaside I popped in to Peters Fish Factory for some excellent fish and chips. Next door to here is The Belgian Cafe which served a range of Belgian beers. Just round the corner from here is The Sovereign which was good for the lunch time kick off. The clubhouse is located outside the ground itself and offered the usual selection of drinks. On my way back to the station I had the pleasure of popping in to The Hovelling Boat Inn which offered several real ales and table service and well worth checking out. 

A cracking programme was produced by Ramsgate for the game. There was the usual mix of match reports and updates from the numerous junior sides.

Another view of the stand.