Guernsey were looking to get their Isthmian South campaign off to a positive start but, much like their last visit to Ramsgate, they lost to a late goal.

Tony Vance’s side were up against it after falling behind to a fifth minute goal headed in by Taylor after good work on the right wing from Loynes.

The Green Lions struggled to get in to their stride in first half and failed to create any clear-cut chances despite having plenty of possession. Dave Rihoy’s left-footed strike was the best chance of the half but it was well gathered by Luke Watkins in the Ramsgate goal.

Guernsey rode their luck at times, and Tardif had to be at his best to prevent Ramsgate extending their lead. They had a golden opportunity double their lead in first-half stoppage-time from the spot, but Chris Tardif saved Taylor’s penalty low to his left.

Ramsgate started the second half brightly and nearly went two up just minutes in, almost a carbon copy of the first half goal, Loynes again whipped in a dangerous cross but this time Guernsey cleared their lines.

Guernsey’s workrate was superb in the second half with Rihoy, Craig Young and Kyle Smith all working tirelessly to try and create a chance. Tony Vance looked to his bench to make the break through with both Robbie Legg and Marc McGrath coming on.

Legg gave Guernsey the spark they were looking for. He looked hungry to make an impact and it was positive play from the young forward that led to the equaliser. He earned his team a corner, delivered inviteingly by Young and flicked on by Heaume with the ball flicking off the near post on its way in.

In the dying minutes of the game, the home side won a corner, the initial delivery was cleared but with just minutes left on the clock a lucky deflection fell to the feet of Taylor who fired the Rams back in front, with the assitant referee ignoring GFC’s appeals for an offside.

Guernsey’s next game is on Wednesday evening when we welcome Cray Wanderers to Footes Lane with a 19:45 kick off.