3rdnov04

Angels aim to bolster squad before trophy tie

TONBRIDGE ANGELS player-manager Tony Dolby has switched his attention to three possible options to add to his forward line prior to Saturday's FA Trophy clash with Ryman League Division One close neighbours Horsham at Longmead Stadium, writes Stephen McCartney.

The player-manager has confirmed one of his targets will be a loan signing, one a trialist and the other may be sealed on a permanent deal.

Dolby has taken this action after discussions with Ryman League Division One side Burgess Hill Town over the proposed transfer of striker Steve Harper, who was also wanted by Hastings, broke down as the club confirmed they no longer wanted to sell the player despite the Angels being prepared to increase their offer.

Speaking on the club's official website, chairman Paul Dainty said: "I have spoken to the Burgess Hill chairman and it is quite clear they now have no intention of selling Steve Harper and that the player has no desire to leave the club.

"We have to accept that and move on and we are now perusing several other options.

"I really hope that we can have one deal sorted before Saturday."

The Angels management will be turning back the clock for the Horsham game.

In conjunction with new away shirt sponsors, John Smith's Brewery, pints of John Smith's Extra Smooth, Fosters and Kronenboutrg 1664 will be available in the bar at a price of £1.20 throughout the day.

Commenting on this unique offer, Dainty added: "When we announced this sponsorship package with John Smith's we did say that there would be benefits for Angels fans.

"John Smith's were keen to "treat" as many fans as possible and this is the ideal way.

"I hope as many supporters as possible pop into the bar on the day and enjoy a drink.

"As always, if you are fortunate enough to look much younger than your age, the management reserve the right to ask for proof of age."

Supplies of the new away shirts have now been delivered and orders can be collected and shirts purchased in the club shop.

Tonbridge have confirmed an official protest was made regarding the performance of the match officials in their 2-1 defeat at Kent rivals Dover Athletic last Saturday.

Dover won the game thanks to two Craig Cloke penalties.

In an statement, the Longmead club said: "What can only be described as dubious and controversial decisions given against the Angels.

"Two controversial penalties were awarded in the first half to Dover, the second of which was given by the linesman without appeal by any Dover player.

"In the second half the Angels were denied a penalty and there was a string of puzzling decisions not least the referee awarding an offside without the linesman flagging."

Meanwhile, Tonbridge Angels' under eighteen's will travel to Coca Cola League side Leyton Orient in the first round proper of the Pepsi FA Youth Cup next Monday, 8th November, kicking off at Brisbane Road at 7:45pm.

Barry Jeffrey's side have defeated Littlehampton Town (6-2) and Chipstead (3-1) away from home, and thrashed Eastbourne Borough 5-1 at Longmead Stadium on Monday.

Sixteen-year-old striker Tom Reeves - wanted by Premiership sides Portsmouth and Chelsea - scored a hat-trick and the win was sealed with strikes from Matt Hollyoak and substitute Kevin Carpenter.

Tonbridge Angels v Horsham
FA Trophy First Round
Saturday 6th November 2004
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Longmead Stadium, Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge