Whitnell returns as Angels draw a blank
Tonbridge
Tonbridge drew 0- 0 with an AFC Wimbledon XI last Saturday.
Angels, playing the first of three home friendlies, were up against the League 1 new boys’ under-21 side.
Tommy Whitnell played his first full game since an operation to repair a fractured cheekbone and eye socket at the end of last season.
There was also a debut for young forward Tashi-Jay Kwayie.
Meanwhile, midfielder Tom Phipp is nearing a comeback from a long-term knee injury.
The former Ebbsfleet and Margate man has trained with the squad for the first time since suffering the injury last September. Manager Steve McKimm told the Tonbridge website: “He came through a good session with the boys.
“I don’t want to overstretch him but I’m looking at a month and a bit’s time, maybe a bit longer.
“We said middle of September but anything else is a bonus.”
Angels host Thamesmead at Longmead tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm) for Jon Heath’s testimonial.
That’s followed by a trip to McKimm’s old club Sutton on Tuesday (7.45pm) and the final friendly at home to East Grinstead next weekend.
Angels start the Ryman League, Premier Division season with a home game against Wingate & Finchley on August 13. McKimm said: “As long as we’re ready against Wingate, that’s the main aim.”
Tonbridge have been drawn away to Folkestone in the first round of the League Cup. The tie will be played in the week of September 12.