Ramsgate cancel their pre-season friendly at Maidstone United with ‘several players carrying knocks’

Ramsgate have cancelled a pre-season friendly for the second time this summer.

The Rams have pulled out of tomorrow night’s match at Maidstone, citing injuries.

It came after a young side lost 5-1 at Isthmian Premier Dover on Saturday, Alfie Paxman the scorer.

“Unfortunately, due to several players carrying knocks, we have decided to cancel Tuesday’s friendly away to Maidstone United,” said a club statement.

“This will allow the players time to recover for Friday’s home friendly vs Elmstead.

“We would like to apologise to all fans who were planning on attending the game.

“The decision has not been taken lightly, and has been made with the wellbeing of the squad in mind after a difficult start to pre-season.

“We would also like to apologise to Maidstone United and their staff and wish them good luck for the forthcoming season.”

Just over a week ago, Ramsgate called off their opening friendly against Kennington following the resignation of new manager Tony Russell after only 25 days.

Popular predecessor Ben Smith returned as interim boss, overseeing a 3-2 win over Bearsted last Tuesday.

Ramsgate have since announced the signings of two players who won Isthmian South East under Russell at Cray Wanderers five years ago.

They are centre-half Jay Leader and left-back Tom Carlse, the latter returning to the club after ending the 2022/23 season at Southwood when Jamie Coyle was in charge.