Ebbsfleet's Fast Start Ends Tonbridge Angels' Unbeaten League Run

Tonbridge Angels: Frankie Baker (45+3')

Ebbsfleet United: Gene Kennedy (5') Kwesi Appiah (28')

Tonbridge Angels lost for the first time in five league games as Ebbsfleet United, playing only their fourth match of a belated campaign, came from ahead to hold on for a 2-1 win at Longmead. Angels pulled a goal back right on half-time but couldn't find an equaliser.

Ebbsfleet were the sharper side early on. Gene Kennedy volleyed them in front inside five minutes, and Kwesi Appiah headed in a second on 28 to make it 2-0. Angels grew into the game before the break, and Frankie Baker cut inside from the left to beat goalkeeper Will Buse in first-half stoppage time. Bailey Akehurst was booked in between, his fifth of the season, which brings a one-match suspension.

Angels started the second half on top and had chances through Akehurst and substitute Bunmi Babajide, but Ebbsfleet sat deep and looked dangerous on the break. Substitutes Harvey Lintott and Alfie Pavey came on to chase an equaliser, and Lintott had two efforts that went close, but the visitors held out. Manager Alan Dunne praised his players for not giving up, and said the performance asked real questions of a side he expects to be "there or thereabouts" come the end of the season.

It was Angels' first league defeat since 15 August, ending a run of three wins and two draws. They stay 10th in National League South. Their next assignment is a return to FA Cup action against Torquay United, before league business resumes in October. Source: tonbridgeangels.co.uk

Form (last 5 league games): ✓✓✗−✗