RAMSGATE boss Jim Ward admits a place in the Ryman League Premier Division play-offs might just be beyond Ramsgate’s grasp this season. He says he is not being defeatist, just realistic.

"We have to go on a smashing run between now and the end of the season to make it, and at the moment I can’t see it happening," Ward said, reflecting on the club's 4-1 loss at Ashford (Middx).

"We have got plaudits wherever we have gone this season., having achieved what we have in the last two years, and in all that time I have never taken my foot off the pedal once.

"It may be time to just take stock of things, give the fringe players in the squad a chance to show what they can do, and see if they are good enough to play at this level.

"We are still ambitious and have enjoyed things at this level, and are not prepared to stop here."

Ramsgate have certainly entertained this season, their 32 league games had produced a total 100 goals.

Four defeats in five Ryman League Premier Division games leave them eighth, five points outside the play-off bracket, and all the clubs above them have games in hand.

Ward has drafted in former Gillingham youngster Michael Phillips from Crawley to help boost a squad hit by injuries and suspension.

New leaders Chelmsford visit Southwood on Saturday after going top on Monday night beating Carshalton 5-1.