Danny Ward is urging the Ramsgate squad to match the two pre-season displays against Margate when the new Ryman League, Division 1 South campaign begins on Saturday week.

Joint- boss Ward said: “The boys have set their standards and have now got to maintain it."

“We need to be more consistent. We were fantastic at times last season but absolutely dire in others.”

Rams led 1-0 from the first leg, before losing the WW Martin Cup double-header on penalties after Gate snatched a stoppage time equaliser.

He added: “We played some lovely stuff in the second tie and also had a goal disallowed which the referee apologised for afterwards.

“Margate’s celebrations at the end showed just how much they wanted it.”

Rams have been boosted by the return of two former players, Tom Chapman and Aaron Millbank.

Chapman has returned after a spell away travelling, while Millbank released by Gillingham, is back at his local club, having spent a spell on-loan two years ago, scoring nine goals in 12 games.

Ward added: “It’s a bonus to have both boys back.

“Tom won’t be available until the start of September, due to a family holiday, while Aaron has recovered from two bad knee injuries. and only lives two minutes from the ground."

Striker Ian Pulman was due to resume training this week after picking up a knee injury in the first game against Margate.

Two players leaving Southwood are Nick Treadwell and Aaron Quain.

Treadwell has rejoined Whitstable

Ramsgate beat Southern Counties East League Rochester United 3-0 on Tuesday night.

last night (Tuesday).

They face Ryman League, Premier Division side Grays Athletic on a 3G pitch at Aveley on Saturday.