Leatherhead and Ramsgate played out a compelling 2-2 draw in the English FA Trophy on Saturday, 26 September 2026, with both clubs trading blows in an early-round tie that delivered everything but a winner. The late kick-off at Fetcham Grove produced four goals, a host of momentum swings and a finish that left the tie finely poised.

Match overview

Leatherhead made the brighter start, pressing high and forcing Ramsgate into a series of hurried clearances. The home side’s reward arrived midway through the first half when a quick move down the right ended with a low finish into the far corner. Ramsgate, however, refused to buckle. The visitors gradually found space between the lines and equalised before the break with a well-worked move of their own.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Leatherhead regained the lead from a set-piece, with a towering header powering past the goalkeeper. Ramsgate responded by pushing more bodies forward and were rewarded late on when a cross from the left was converted at the back post. Neither side could find a fifth goal, and the 2-2 scoreline felt like a fair reflection of an open, competitive FA Trophy tie.

Key moments

• First breakthrough: Leatherhead opened the scoring with a crisp finish after a sustained spell of pressure.
• Ramsgate reply: The visitors levelled before half-time, capitalising on a moment of hesitation in the home defence.
• Hosts back in front: Leatherhead restored their advantage after the interval with a powerful header from a corner.
• Late drama: Ramsgate equalised in the closing stages, turning home a cross to silence the home crowd.

Tactical story

Leatherhead set up in a flexible 4-2-3-1, looking to dominate the ball and use their wide players to stretch Ramsgate’s back line. Their midfield duo worked tirelessly to win second balls, and the full-backs pushed high to create overloads. Ramsgate, by contrast, were more direct in a 4-4-2, aiming to spring quick counter-attacks and deliver early crosses into the box. That approach paid off with their late equaliser, as Leatherhead struggled to clear their lines under sustained pressure.

Standout players

Leatherhead’s attacking midfielder was at the heart of most of their best moves, linking play intelligently and driving forward with purpose. Their centre-back also impressed with a commanding aerial display and a goal from a set-piece. For Ramsgate, the goalkeeper made several important saves to keep the tie alive, while their right winger caused problems throughout with direct running and delivery.

What the draw means

Both clubs will take encouragement from the performance, though the 2-2 result leaves the FA Trophy tie unresolved. Leatherhead showed they can create chances against organised opposition, while Ramsgate demonstrated resilience and a useful cutting edge from wide areas. The draw adds another layer of intrigue to the competition’s early rounds, where non-league clubs dream of a memorable run.