Lloyd Blackman says Saturday’s FA Cup tie comes as a welcome distraction for Ramsgate.

Rams have started the season with back-to-back defeats in Bostik South East, most recently 3-2 at home to Hastings on Saturday.

Head coach Blackman felt they deserved more from the game but was left to rue individual errors.

Ramsgate host Southern Counties East League Premier Division leaders Chatham in the FA Cup preliminary round on Saturday and Blackman said: “Could it be a welcome distraction away from the league? Quite possibly.

“Chatham are a decent side. They invested well in the summer and they’re having a good go in the league.

“James Collins has done a good job so far and it’ll be a tough task but one we’re all looking forward to.

“The lads aren’t disheartened because the performances have been good.

“If we can minimise the mistakes, I’m sure we’ll be back to winning ways.”

Goals from Rory Smith and Tom Chapman put Ramsgate 2-1 up at half-time on Saturday but Hastings left Southwood with the points.

Blackman said: “We should have been three or four clear by half-time.

“It was a punch in the guts to walk away with nothing.”