THE BIG KICK OFF: Dolby faces selection headache for Swans' opener

Wednesday 15th August 2007

Tonbridge Angels’ manager Tony Dolby has a depleted squad to choose from for their Ryman Premier League opener on Saturday, writes Stephen McCartney.

Dolby will be without suspended trio, John Beales (defender), Ray Powell (striker) and Scott Kinch (midfielder), for the home clash against Staines Town.

Add to that, injuries to right-sided player, Scott Gooding (knee), striker Adam Greenway (metatarsal), Dolby has limited options.

But Tommy Tyne, a summer signing from Dover Athletic, is expected to be in the squad, having got 45 minutes under his belt for the first time in three weeks during the week.

“We knew they’re would be three out (due to suspension), but to have the amount of injuries we’ve had during pre-season, is a disappointment,” Dolby said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

But Dolby is looking forward to the game - and wants to emulate last season’s flying start.

He said: “I think it’s imperative if we can get off to a good start, it will hold us in good stead.

“I think I’ve done my part by bringing in quality players and improving the squad and now we just need that little rub of the green, keeping injuries and suspensions to a minimum - I’m sure we will have a very good season.”

Dolby has done his homework on their visitors from Wheatsheaf Park.

“I’ve done a little but of homework on them, sent someone to watch their game on Saturday,” he revealed.

“They’re a strong, well organised, with lots of pace,” he warned. “They’ve brought some players from higher divisions the last few weeks and paid £5,000 for Marc Charles Smith, a big lad up front, from (Ryman One South) Leatherhead.

“We don’t fear them that’s for sure, we’re very confident still.”

Following last season’s impressive displays on their Ryman Premier League return, which included striker Jon Main netting a record breaking 44 goals, and beating the likes of AFC Wimbledon and Chelmsford City, expectations are even higher this term.

“I think it’s important I make progression as a manager,” said Dolby. “I have to bring in quality and do better than last year - that’s my goal.”

Dolby is expected to hand left-winger, Ryan Martin and left-back, Kurt Husnu their debuts against the Swans.

“Ryan has been pre-season training at Welling, but he was at Fisher last year,” explained Dolby.

“He’s very direct, quick, tricky, and he whips a lovely ball in.

“Kurt hasn’t played much in the past year to eighteen months, he hasn’t really come from anywhere as such.

“He’s been very good so far, his nowhere near full fitness, he was a professional before, he’s got a lot of quality, a great left-foot and he’s going to bring competition, that’s for sure.”

Visit Tonbridge Angels’ website: www.tonbridgeangels.co.uk

Tonbridge Angels v Staines Town
Ryman Premier League
Saturday 18^th August 2007
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Betterview Longmead Stadium, Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge, Kent TN10 3JW

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