United back on FA Cup trail

A first half strike by Sam Adams was enough to give United a 1-0 victory at home to Ramsgate and set up an intriguing first round qualifying clash at home to Guernsey on Saturday September 14.

With new manager John Maggs in the home dugout for the first time, United played plenty of attractive football in the early stages, although Ramsgate pair Dean Hill and Ben Laslett went close with the only real chances during the opening 20 minutes.

But United took the lead against the run of play in the 23rd minute. Matt Darby found Kenny Pogue in space on the right and the striker delivered an inch-perfect cross to give Adams a simple finish.

Jono Richardson then headed just wide for United before Ramsgate carved out their best two moments of the match shortly before the break. Josh Pelling made a good save to deny Andy Miller and Andy Henson cleared off the line from Curtis Robinson.

United were fairly comfortable during the second half and might have even added to their tally. Pogue struck the outside of the post after latching onto an Adams chip, while Sean Kelly’s close range header was superbly saved and two Danny Ellis volleys were palmed away.

It was United’s second win over Ramsgate at The Pilot Field in the space of five days following their come-from-behind 3-1 success in Ryman Division One South on Bank Holiday Monday.

United: Pelling, Henson (Corrigan 69), Richardson, Darby, Judge, Kelly, Crone (O’Connor 62), Ellis, Pogue (Maclean 80), Adams, Olorunda. Subs not used: Woodley, Burbridge. Attendance: 387.