Ramsgate never recovered from the worst possible start at home to Merstham when Ben Laslett’s slip let in Michael Gordon for a simple goal in their Ryman League Division 1 South clash at Southwood.

Seven minutes later Rams suffered from another self-inflicted wound when a collision involving Will Graham and goalkeeper Brett Mills enabled Daniel Bennett to walk the ball into the net.

Sam Jones, pictured, gave Rams hope with a 21st-minute reply from Gary Mickelborough’s cross but though Rams dominated possession in the second half, they were unable to conjure an equaliser.

Picture: Simon Harris