Ian Chapman’s side made the short trip over the Sussex/Kent border, to Tonbridge, for our second consecutive away fixture of the season. The Longmead surface was looking immaculate, thanks to the hosts’ recent award winning groundsman!  The home side started on the front foot, as the Hillians struggled to get into the game. In the 7th minute, the Angels should of taken the lead, when Arthur Lee powered a header against the cross-bar, much to his disappointment. The Hillians’ only chance of the first half came on 16 minutes, as Aaron Smith-Joseph fed a ball through to Sam Fisk, who was just dispossessed as he looked to pull the trigger. Tonbridge continued to apply pressure, but Elphick and Charman held firm. This was until the 26th minute, when the dangerous Joe Taylor rounded Josh James, and fired into an empty net. Tom Parkinson suffered a nasty head injury, in the 31st minute, and himself and Elphick collided in the air, with Parkinson later returning, sporting a fine bandage. Josh James was called into action late in the first half, as the Hillians stopper produced a fine save to prevent the prolific, Alex Reid.

HT 0-1.

Ian Chapman introduced Kieron Pamment at half time, and made a slight alteration to the Hillians’ shape, allowing for a greater fluidity about our play. On the 50 minute mark, Pope came within inches of levelling, as Tighe’s quick free-kick fell the the forward, who dragged his effort just wide. Pamment continued to cause problems down the right hand flank, as his dangerous, jinking run and cross almost found the on-rushing Pope and Smith-Joseph, inside the host’s six yard box. However, the Angels managed to hold firm as the Hillians continued to press, showing just why the Kent side will be ‘in and around it’ come the end of the campaign.

FT 0-1.

Gary Charman was awarded the Hillians MOTM, following a great defensive display both in the air and in possession.

Thank you to all you Hillians who made the trip the support the club. We go again on Saturday, as we return to the Green Elephants Stadium!