Ramsgate began the game in a very lively fashion, with Benni Bioletti causing the Ashford defence a number of problems.
Four excellent chances in the first ten minutes. Three close misses and the fourth magnificently saved by Jacob Russell diving to his right.
Ramsgate could have taken the lead after 12 minutes.
Rhyle Ovenden was adjudged to have fouled a Ramsgate forward and referee Marshall had no hesitation in pointing to the penalty spot. Wes Hennessey’s shot was saved brilliantly by Jacob Russell.

Slightly against the run of play Ashford took the lead in the 27th minute a miskicked clearance by Ramsgate goalkeeper Archie Simmons fell very conveniently to Vance Bola who volleyed the ball straight back into an empty net.

Five minutes later Ramsgate equalised. Once again Bioletti was at the heart of the matter sending across a centre to the far post which Harvey Brand turned into his own net whilst attempting a clearance.

Ramsgate increased their lead in the 38th minute, Wes Hennessey atoning for his penalty miss scoring to give the hosts the advantage at half time.

HT – Ramsgate 2 Ashford United 1

Manager Kevin Watson brought on Tom Carlse at half time and the difference he made was very soon obvious.
Ashford looked much more secure in defence and began to dominate matters.

The equaliser came in the 52nd minute. A long ball out of defence ‘sailed’ into the Ramsgate half. Noah Carney beat the defender for pace and cleverly chipped the ball over goalkeeper Simmons.
The visitors took the lead in the 75th minute Anthony Edgar scoring on his debut.

Another new signing Kymani Thomas was brought on to replace Lanre Azeez.
The game continued with both teams giving the spectators some memorable and, at times, exciting football.
The ‘piece de resistance’ came with, almost, the final kick of the game.
Kymani Thomas received the ball in his own half of the field. He looked up and saw Ramsgate keeper Simmons well off his line and ‘launched’ a kick from around 75 yards which deceived Simmons for Ashford’s fourth goal.
The goal must already be a candidate for ‘goal of the season’.

In the course of 4 days and two matches Ashford United have scored 11 goals and the style of play that is on display now is most exciting.
Star man Noah Carney
Entertainment value *****

Kevin Watsons Players of the match -
Kymani Thomas & Jacob Russell