You get the odd gem in Sunday football and this is their chance to join Ramsgate, says Tim Dixon

RAMSGATE boss Tim Dixon begins his search for gems in an open trial next week.



The Ryman League Division One South club are holding open trials for players who feel they have got what it takes to break into the club’s first team squad or new Ryman Under 21 squads for next season.

A trial match will be held at the Bay Point Club, Ramsgate Road, Sandwich, CT13 9QL next Tuesday, 21 May.

Each player will need to ensure that they bring their own training kit, shin pads and boots and be at Bay Point by 6:30pm for registration before the 7:00pm start.

Anyone interested should text or telephone Tim Dixon on 07595 711 317 or Darren Beale on 07879 995 053.

“We thought we would have an open trial,” said Dixon.  “There have been lots of players emailing the club and we wanted to give these lads a chance collectively and it also gives the opportunity for local players to come forward so we can have a look at them.

“You get the odd gem in Sunday football who gets to a stage in their lives when they think they can play at our standard. Well, here’s their chance.

“With Ramsgate running a Ryman under 21 team next season, this trial will also mean a chance for players to stake a claim for a place in the squad where we can oversee progression to the first team.”

The Rams finished in seventh-place in the Ryman League Division One South table in Dixon’s first season in charge at Southwood Stadium.  They collected 70 points from their 42 games, narrowly missing out on a play-off place by one point.

Champions Dulwich Hamlet claimed the sole automatic place and runners-up Maidstone United were also promoted after beating Folkestone Invicta and Faversham Town at home in the play-offs.

Ramsgate have lost the services of left-back Sam Gore, 24, who has re-located to Eastbourne to study and goalkeeper Deren Hawkes, who was on a long-term loan from League Two champions Gillingham, is certain to return to full-time football.

“I have spoken to all the players from last season and as far as I’m concerned, all of last years’ squad are staying,” revealed Dixon.

“Only player-of-the-year and managers-player-of-the-year Sam Gore has left due to his relocation to Eastbourne and Daren Hawkes has been offered a full-time deal and will confirm his intentions this week.”

Dixon added: “I am obviously talking to a few players, but we don’t need much, just a bit more quality in certain areas and we will be ready for next season.”

Visit Ramsgate’s website: www.ramsgate-fc.co.uk