Pitching In Isthmian Supporters Predictions 25-26: Ramsgate part two!

We asked supporters of our Pitching In Isthmian League clubs to preview the new season, reflect on the old and predict the final outcome. Their predicted 1-22 will be worked into a final table which you will see just before the big kick off. Duncan is the second Rams fan to give us a view- we’ll be combining his table predictions with the other Ramsgate entrant before we add them both to the final total!

Thinking about last season, what were your highlights?

It's hard to look away from the obvious, which was a title winning season. A total of 109 points and scoring 127 goals made for a season for all to remember. Joe Taylor continuing to be an absolute goal machine was a delight and him finishing off one of the best team goals I've ever seen with a cheeky back heel will live long in the memory. 

When thinking about matches, impressive away results at Deal, in front of nearly 2000 people. Last minute away victories at Erith Town, AFC Croydon and Sevenoaks proved to be so vital and showed our determination to play until the last whistle. At home we were imperious, remaining undefeated until the league was already won. An early season 4-2 victory over Sittingbourne set out our intentions at Southwood, and we continued this trait, winning 14 games at home by a 3 or more goal margin. Personally, a particularly satisfying result was a 4-1 home victory over Merstham, following an ill tempered away match only a few weeks earlier.

And what was the worst moment?

This is a much harder question as there were almost no negatives during the campaign. But again the stand out moment would be against Hythe Town away, the game in which we sealed promotion and the title. For all the joy and jubilant scenes, unfortunately when the 4th and final goal was scored a few minutes from time, goalkeeper Tom Hadler sprinted down the pitch to join the celebrations and proceeded to tear his ACL. Something that required surgery and will take the majority of the 2025/26 campaign to recover from. Bad results happen from time to time but the truly unfortunate injury to not only a fan favourite but a truly lovely gentleman was hard to see.

Which member of your squad was your Player of the Season - and why?

There were so many star players over the course of last season, but time and time again one name kept rising to the top and it was reflected by both the supporters and player's player of the season, step forward Jay Leader. A powerful, dominant but ultimately graceful centre back was nothing short outstanding all season. As well as top notch defensive ability, Jay was able to break the lines into midfield and create any number of headaches for overloaded midfields. He also wasn't shy about a goal or two, totting up 9 throughout the season and adding to an already powerful attacking force. Unfortunately for Ramsgate, Jay has decided to hang up his boots and move to pastures new. We'll have a heck of a job in trying to replace the player and person that we've lost with Jay Leader.

Moving on to your current squad- which players do you think will make a big impact during the 25-26 campaign?

When looking at Ramsgate's squad, we have a potent attacking threat that all fans will be looking to see do their thing. The retainment of attacking trio Jadama, Paxman and Bioletti has been greeted with much enthusiasm, and the acquisition of both Mitchell May and Ryan Kingsford has got supporters salivating. Further signings of the excellent full back Donvieve Jones, centre back Raphe Brown, and Goalkeeper Aiden Prall further strengthen an already strong group. Ultimately, local, fan favourite, and now captain, TJ Jadama will be fascinating to watch this coming season. As hardworking as he is creative, TJ offers so much going forward and leads by example in his effort and determination. I for one can't wait to see TJ take on the Isthmian Premier.

Realistically, how do you think you’ll do this season?

As a newly promoted side, it's always slightly difficult to try and predict how we will fare this coming season. Keen to not stand on their laurels, the club have retained much of last seasons squad, and with the loss of the likes of Joe Taylor, Jay Leader, and Roarie Deacon, have brought in incredibly exciting replacements. The club won't be looking to be dragged into a relegation fight and I feel that a top half finish would satisfy both club and fans alike. We may at times flirt with play off places, but until we've seen the level of competition it's hard to predict if we can realistically challenge.

Which matches are you most looking forward to going to- and why?

We can't really answer "all!" so I suppose I'll have to narrow this down. There are some really good and big clubs at this level, and I can't wait to see us play the likes of St Albans, Billericay and Folkestone Invicta. For me though, there is one team that stands out, and it harkens back to last season. An integral part of our squad last campaign was Lee Martin, a hugely talented and influencial central midfielder with an extraordinary career featuring spells at the likes of Manchester United, Ipswich Town and Millwall. Having helped us to promotion, Lee decided to move to the next phase of his career and this summer was appointed the new manager of Welling United. Fans will be incredibly excited for this reunion, though also hoping that both fixtures don't leave Marts on the winning side on this occasion.

What is your favourite Isthmian away ground?

From experience last season there were a few memorable trips and some truly wonderful grounds. Though tempting to say Hythe, as that was the ground that we sealed the title and promotion, my personal favourite was Holm Park, the home of Sheppey United. The Isle of Sheppey is already a slightly surreal place, and this quaint ground set against the back drop of green fields and windfarms has the appearance of being welded from old tankers and shipping containers. The day itself was ultimately a success, but I remember a great, friendly atmosphere and brilliant views of the play. I can't wait to visit some new venues this season. 

If you regularly travelled away, which ground served the best food?

There's little contest with this one. Without a shadow of a doubt, Burgess Hill Town. Brilliant smash patty burgers and several other stalls dotted around the ground for a variety of other food and drink. Can't wait to go back this season.

Who do you think will finish in the top five?  

Billericay Town, St Albans City, Dartford, Chatham Town, Welling United

If you’re reading this and would like to represent your club, please drop an email to Ian at [email protected] and he’ll be in touch.