READ TOO GOOD FOR URCHINS
Angels stay top of the table
ALEX Read was the star of the show as his two goals helped Tonbridge Angels down AFC Hornchurch who had Connor Hogan sent off late on.
Despite having the better of the first half, it was Hornchurch who fell behind in stoppage time as Read converted a penalty.
Read then doubled his and the team’s tally in second half stoppage time as Angels remained top of the table.
AFC Hornchurch assistant manager, Colin McBride, said: “We played the team top of the league.
“We would rather have played them two weeks ago when we were in a much better place. Our last two league games have been poor and the more Jim McFarlane and myself talk about it becomes some clearer.
“The simple fact we have dropped our standards since the start of the season. We are trying to get a coach into our management team because Jim and myself are
just too similar. I will then take a back seat and carry out my other duties. Football management is not for me anymore, different times, different players but I am convinced we will make great progress.”
Hornchurch were missing several key players due to injury and were further handicapped with the loss of Jordan Clark midway through the second half.
The Tonbridge defence dealt capably with the Hornchurch long ball tactics, but they were lacking up front sending several shots high and wide with Adam Ramaden going closest to finding the net.
But as the half moved into stoppage time Alex Read put Tonbridge ahead with a well struck penalty.
Tonbridge took command in the second half dominating the midfield but did not offer a threat to the home goal. Whilst a Purcell free kick was cleared to Connor Hogan whose shot was blocked.
Callum made a fine save from a Joseph Turner free kick tipping the ball over the bar whilst Leon Smith went close from a Purcell free kick.
As the match entered stoppage time Hogan was sent off for a second yellow card and with Hornchurch still reeling from what appeared a harsh decision Tonbridge took full advantage when Alex Read neatly finished off a Jared Small cross.
STAR MAN: Adam Ramaden (Angels) ENTERTAINMENT: ★★★★★