Dolby seeks unbeaten spell to boost promotion push

Tonbridge Angels’ player-boss Tony Dolby said his side were looking to string together a run of results to maintain their promotion push in Ryman League Division One and will be starting by targeting maximum points from today’s home game against Leatherhead, writes Jez Durrant.

Dolby’s men arrested a mini-slump in form seven days ago when they shared the points away from home with Bashley following a goalless draw.

Tonbridge had the better of the game and created more chances but could not convert any to sew up the points.

Brighton & Hove Albion players Lee Carey and Steve May both played for the Angels and the club were in discussions with the Championship outfit this week about extending their tenure.

Dolby told the Kent and Sussex Courier Newspaper that he was pleased with his side’s performance, adding: “We should have won. We went there to win and played quite aggressively but just could not put away our chances.”

The result leaves Tonbridge in third place in the table, four points behind second placed Horsham, who have played two games more than the Angels.

Ramsgate, without a game today, however, look favourites to take the title as they lead the way - five points ahead of Tonbridge.

Dolby said he wasn’t targeting a set number of points to achieve promotion but said: “I don’t necessary have a target in mind. We have a couple more really tough games coming up then our run is a little easier.

“We have got to be looking to maximise out opportunities and go on another unbeaten run that will keep us up there.”

Midfielders Danny Lye an Nick Barnes missed Saturday’s game with Bashley through illness and the latter is due to start a two-match suspension.

Former Welling United defender Lew Watts is still struggling with a hernia injury and is unlikely to feature in the first team for the next few week.

After a prolonged spell out of the side former Fisher Athletic goalkeeper Jerome John returned last week and Dolby said it was good to have his number one stopper back in the team, adding: “JJ is looking fine. He played a reserve game last week and the Bashley game and kept two clean sheets so he must be pretty happy.”

Following today’s game, Tonbridge travel to second from bottom side Newport IOW before hosting Dover Athletic on Tuesday, 28^th February.

Dolby said: “We want at least two wins from our next three games to maintain our current position in the league. That is what is required.

“The attitude among the players is great and the spirit in the camp is really good. Everyone is buoyant and keen to keep on going.”