Non-contract duo sign deals

Tonbridge

Alex Akrofi and George Beavan have signed new deals with Tonbridge. Striker Akrofi has scored 13 goals since joining from Hastings while Beavan, currently sidelined with a finger injury, has been a rock in defence. The pair were non-contract players and boss Steve McKimm was keen to tie them down. He said: “It’s great news. I’m pleased they’ve agreed and there may be a couple more in the not-too-distant future. “Alex has been in a rich vein of form, scoring goals and people will be sniffing around him. I didn’t want to get involved in a bidding war in the summer. “He was happy with the deal I offered. He loves the club, loves the players and he’s flourishing. As for George, he’s done ever so well. “He’s the sort of player I want, a warrior who puts his head in where it hurts. Whether we’re Ryman Prem or Conference South next season, I need people like him.” McKimm wishes there were more players like Akrofi. The former Maidstone striker has proved a few people wrong with his performances, scoring the goals to go with his workrate. McKimm said: “People weren’t sure if he could do it but Jay Saunders at Maidstone spoke highly of him and just felt he needed a full season at this level to show his potential. “You watch players and listen to other managers and you try to make the right call.” Tonbridge are up to third in the Ryman League, Premier Division, after a goalless draw at Leatherhead last Saturday and a 1-1 draw with second-placed Havant on Tuesday. Akrofi gave Angels an early lead against Havant but Jason Prior levelled with eight minutes left. Tonbridge host fourth-placed Needham Market tomorrow (Saturday) with the teams separated by goal difference. That’s followed by fellow play-off hopefuls Leiston away on Tuesday. McKimm said: “Our aim was to get third place, which we did on Tuesday and our next aim is to get second.”