Dockers spark confusion over on-off cup tie

RAMSGATE officials would like to tell supporters NOT to turn up to Southwood Stadium tonight, expecting to watch a Ryman League Cup Quarter-Final tie against Staines Town, writes Stephen McCartney.

Holders Ramsgate were defeated 3-0 at Tilbury last week, but the Essex side had fielded Dan Jones, a cup-tied player, which sparked confusion.

Ramsgate have this week issued the following statement on their website www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk to explain the situation.

"At a meeting on Monday afternoon the League considered the matter of Tilbury using a cup-tied player (Dan Jones) in their fixture against Ramsgate last week.

"The League decided that the Rams will take Tilbury's place in the quarter final and that it had to be played on Wednesday 4th.

"Tilbury appealed this decision and, after a personal hearing on 3rd March have been reinstated. Ramsgate wish Tilbury Good Luck.

"Tilbury have contacted the Club and thanked them for their support in this matter.

"Ramsgate FC would like to make it clear that at no time did the Club or any individual attached to the Club question the integrity of Tilbury FC or lodge any protest with the League.

"After an anonymous telephone call to the Club clarification was sought from the League as to the status of a particular player. The League then of its own volition immediately announced Tilbury's expulsion from the competition.

"The Chairman was initially reluctant to re-enter the competition but the Club were clearly told by the League that if Ramsgate did not play the game this week Staines would be given a bye. It was therefore agreed that the game would be played this Wednesday.

"Ramsgate wish Tilbury every success in the competition but do feel that the confusion caused by the initial decision of the League and its subsequent last minute reversal has been most unhelpful to all three clubs involved."

Article courtesy of www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk