First Team manager Steve Lovell described Wednesday’s 3-0 win over National League South side Dover Athletic as “excellent” as he reflected on his first month of pre-season, ahead of this year’s Isle of Thanet Cup.
Despite the experimental nature of friendlies, Rams fans have been treated to some promising performances from their side including a 4-0 win against a Gillingham XI and a 3-2 defeat of recently promoted Herne Bay.
“It’s going very well and we’re improving every game.” Said Lovell.
“The lads are getting fitter every time I see them. They’re playing as a unit, as a group, and progressing very nicely. They have adapted well with the new lads we have brought in who are very good.
“What has pleased me the most is the way the boys have taken on the way Mark(Lovell) and I want to play. We have our methods, our system our ideas and they have bought in to it.
“Proof is results against teams from higher leagues, especially with the excellent performance last night against Dover.
“We like to play football but sometime you have to understand you cant play football and we will have to adapt to the way certain teams play in the season. This is something we will work on over the next couple of weeks on the training ground and by the time the league starts the boys t will be a lot more in tune with each other on the football field.”
While a number have trialed, it is a very familiar look to the team the former Wales international inherited in April. The Rams have lost just two players over the summer with Jacob Russel and Mitch Chapman both joining Cray Wanderers. While to supporters it may seem quiet on the transfer front, Lovell explained he will not be signing players to make up the numbers but remains on the lookout.
“I’m very happy with the current squad. We have competition throughout the side which is important.
“I’m always on the lookout for new players, if they’re the right player. We may add one or two between now and the start of the season.”
The Rams have just two matches and two training sessions remaining before they kick off their Isthmian League South campaign at WW Martin Community Stadium on 13th August with a blockbuster tie against Cray Valley PM.
The annual Isle of Thanet Cup match is always a key date for supporters and kicks off at 3PM at Hartsdown Park on Saturday 30th July before the visit of last season’s champions Hastings United at Southwood of August 6th.
“The last two friendlies against Margate and Hastings will be good test,” said Lovell. “Hastings went up last year so will be a real tough one.
“The main thing is getting the squad out and getting them playing together and crucial minutes on the football field.
“It is important everyone goes in to the season with enough minutes and enough time on the ball to have shown me what they can do.” He concluded.
Season tickets are still available to purchase at just £95 for adults and £60 for concessions while kids and NHS workers can obtain them for free. For more information visit https://www.cognitoforms.com/RamsgateFC/SeasonTicket2223
