Despite six goals, three points and continuing to head the National League Under-19 Alliance, Academy boss Tom Parkinson was less than impressed following his side 6-3 home win against Eastbourne Borough. An early goal from Saul Musengeyi set the Angels on their way but this was quickly reversed as poor defending allowed the visitors to take a 2-1 lead. Luke Taylor restored parity just before the break and when Musengeyi was sent through via a fantastic through ball from Aidan Murphy followed by Jacob Lambert stealing the ball from a defender to score it seemed plain sailing once more, but a penalty brought the Sussex side back into the game. Goals from Ned Lewis on 81 and 90 minutes made the game safe but Tom was particularly disappointed with the first half performance.

Dominic Welsh’s Development squad journeyed down to Faversham where they met a much strengthened Abbey School who represent Dover Athletic’s Academy. With no fixtures for either their first or second teams they fielded a mixture from the three squads giving our lads an uphill task from the outset. For the opening 20 minutes, the Angels second string were well in the game but a straight ball through the centre that was well finished gave Dover the lead and the momentum that was not too be reversed and ending with a 4-0 defeat. Credit should be given though that they stuck at the task against a physically bigger, stronger side that left several of the Angels side nursing heavy knocks on the sidelines.

Development 2 were awarded a 3-0 win over Halley College who were unable to field a team.

Man of the Match Awards went to Luke Taylor for the Elite squad and Tyler Richardson from the Development game.

This week’s team of the week consists of: Tommy Seal (2); Luc Hutson (2), Harrison Mayhew (1), Mikey Ryan (2); Leo Deere (1), Tyler Richardson (2), Aidan Murphy (1), Adam Barden (2); Jacob Lambert (1), Ned Lewis (1), Luke Taylor (1).

Harry Hudson and Charlie Martin went on to Croydon to feature in the senior team’s friendly at the Croydon Arena. Harry came on as a 60th minute substitute and put the Angels 2-1 in front after 71 minutes with his first senior goal. Charlie took Jonny Henly’s place between the sticks for the final 15 minutes and can claim a clean sheet as the Angels ran out 4-1 winners.

This coming week the Elite team have an away fixture at Dulwich Hamlet with the Development 2 side travelling to Harris Academy, Falconwood.

Tunbridge Wells Football Club’s Goal of the Month for January was won by Rhys Bartlett, coach to Development 2, for his strike at Canterbury City.

And finally, the now weekly reminder for the Open Trials at Hugh Christie on 19/20 February. If you are yet to apply and want a place at next season’s Academy please sign up via: form.jotformeu.com/92911723517357 or emailing academy@tonbridgeangels.co.uk