Tonbridge succumbed to a second successive defeat following the poor performance against Staines Town last Saturday with a narrow loss to in-form Chelmsford. The home side were eager to gain revenge on their opponents following the reverse score line earlier in the season. A double from striker Jake Edwards gave City a valuable win, which maintains their slim chance of making the end of season playoffs.

The first half an hour coasted along with very little goalmouth action and both teams still trying to break down their opposition. The Angels looked a little superior, with both Steve Sodje and Brendon Cass having lame efforts saved comfortably. Surprisingly, it took until a minute prior to half time for the first real opportunity to be carved out when Helder Valdez’s stinging low drive produced a dramatic one handed save from goalkeeper Jamie Turner. Moments later, Lee Williams looked to have put Chelmsford in front when his speculative cross drifted dangerously onto the crossbar, much to the relief of the helpless Turner.

The interval served as a wake up call for the home team as they begun with much more purpose about their build up play. It took only three minutes to break the deadlock as Edwards stole in unmarked to coolly slot past the stranded keeper. Tonbridge looked for an equaliser almost immediately as they attacked with new signing Steve McNamara leading the way with his superb pace and trickery causing havoc down the left flank. Steve Sodje had a right foot curler easily saved by the home goalkeeper. Chelmsford then looked to have wrapped up all three points as they doubled their advantage on 54 minutes as Edwards grabbed his second of the afternoon, volleying in from just ten yards. Skipper for the match, Jamie Turner kept the Angels in the match with stunning saves from former Welling player George Lay, Edwards again and Garry Cross. Tonbridge did snatch a consolation goal with only two minutes remaining when Jay May volleyed in from an acute angle after good play by Danny Lye. However, this was not enough as Chelmsford hung on reasonably happily for maximum points to boost their league position.

Report by: Gary Cornwell