Tonbridge generally had the edge, but had to work hard for their victory - Nick Barnes' 38th minute strike making it maximum points in December for Tony Dolby's men. An absorbing contest saw plenty of good football from both sides.

With Lew Watts fit again and a near full-strength squad available, John Beales resumed at right back with Adam O'Neil making way for Ray Powell up front. Dobla named himself to the bench, Danny Lye getting the start in midfield.

Cray were under pressure early on but it was Mikhel Czanner who made the first real save, leaping high to grab Jon Main's lob. Garry Abbott missed a good chance from a corner and Main fired just wide in a good spell for the Wands midway through the first half.

The Angels kept going however, and Cray 'keeper Steve Northwood had to be out quickly to deny Powell - Jay May's follow-up effort being blocked by a retreating defender.

Jamie Wood missed another opening for Cray, blasting over from ten yards, before Tonbridge took the lead. Danny Glozier swung in a cross from the left, Cray couldn't clear it, and the ball found Barnes who rifled it across Northwood into the far corner of the net.

Steve Aris sidefooted wide from a corner early in the second half as both sides continued to play positive football. Barnes was at the hub of most things for Tonbridge while Cray's best play was channelled through the veteran Abbott, who made things difficult for the Angels' defence throughout.

Cray substitute Leigh Bremner set up Abbott from the edge of the box with 15 minutes left, but Czanner was equal to the shot - then Northwood had to be sharp at the other end, beating away a stinging drive from Powell.

The Angels saw out the last ten minutes without serious alarm, securing second spot in the table as reward for a generally solid all-round performance.

Report by: Tony Browne