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Rams under eighteens follow the first team to seventh heaven

Last Sunday Ramsgate's under eighteens emulated their first team colleagues' seven goal FA Cup victory on the previous day, with a convincing 7-2 win at Homelands against Ashford Town in their opening game of the 2004-2005 MUSH Kent Youth League Under 18 South Division, writes John Vahid. 

Ramsgate took control of the match as early as the eighth minute when industrious midfielder Oliver Donohoe slotted the past past the oncoming Ashford Town goalkeeper.

Within fourteen minutes the visitors doubled their lead, when on-form striker Ross Howells blasted his shot high into the net.

The match was effectively over as a contest in the 25th minute when captain Kieran Morris was put through by new signing Sam Jones to make it 3-0.

Not to be outdone, Jones added a fourth Rams' goal only six minutes later.

Just before the break, Ramsgate's Tim McArthur was upended in the box for which the referee awarded a penalty, but this was blasted wide by Howells.

The second half started in the same mode, although credit must be given to Ashford Town for raising their game to give a more competitive second half performance, with the home goalkeeper pulling off many fine saves.

In the 53rd minute, Ramsgate were awarded a second penalty, but this time Rams goalkeeper Lee Pilcher made no mistake from the spot.

Ramsgate continued to pile on the pressure and it was no surprise when Howells netter his second goal in the 62nd minute.

At this stage Ramsgate slightly eased the pressure, only to allow the ever-battling Ashford side to score two consolation goals in the last ten minutes, either side of a rate goal from Ramsgate left back Andy Hadden, making the final score 7-2 in Ramsgate's favour and placing them at the top of the table after their first game.

Dover Athletic are the visitors to Southwood Stadium this Sunday, 12th September, kicking off at 11.00am. 

Ramsgate: L.Pilcher, C. Verdicchio, A.Hadden, C. Barnett (J. Grainger 65 min), E. Talyor, K. Morris (Capt) (L. Campany 74 mins),T. McArthur, O.Donohoe, R. Howells, B. Summers, S. Jones (L Martin 60 mins).  Subs not used: S. Elliott.