Two in form sides from either side of Kent meet on Sunday afternoon when Cray Wanderers take on Ramsgate in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round at Hayes Lane.

The Wands go into the game having won their last two matches 5-1, at home to Newhaven in the FA Cup and then away to Chatham Town in the Isthmian League Premier Division last Saturday.

This was Neil Smith’s side’s first league win of the season sealed in impressive style at the leaders with two goals from Frankie Raymond and one from Nyren Clunis, Cameron Thompson & Archie Taylor. The victory moved Cray up to nineteenth with 3 points from six games.     

The Wands lost striker Tom Derry to National League North club Bishop Stortford last week, but they have since brought Gary Lockyer back to the club from Ashford Utd. 

Ramsgate also defeated Chatham 5-1, but in the previous round of the cup, and last weekend The Rams won 3-0 at home to Northwood in the FA Trophy with goals from Medy Elito, Tijan Jadama & Mike West.  

Ben Smith’s team sit in sixth place in the Isthmian League Division One South East with six points from three games played, having also progressed through two qualifying rounds of the FA Cup so far, seeing off Bexhill Utd 4-1 before disposing of Chatham. The Rams were in League Cup action on Wednesday night at home to Ashford Utd losing 4-2, having lead 2-1 at the break. 

Ramsgate have two former Cray players in their ranks in striker Joe Taylor and defender Sinnkaye Christie. Taylor was top scorer at The Wands for three seasons before departing to Lewes in 2021 and is now playing for his home town club scoring seven goals so far this season.       

Entrance for the game is £12 for adults and £6 for concessions with an excellent printed programme at £2. Kick off 3pm. 

Image courtesy of Ozay Booth