Herne Bay delivered a commendable performance against National League South side Tonbridge Angels, narrowly falling 2-1 in a tightly contested cup tie. Backed by a passionate group of supporters who braved the cold to sing throughout the match, Bay remained in contention until a superb goal by Trevan Robinson sealed the win for the hosts in the 65th minute.

Sinn’Kaye Christie came into the starting eleven for the first time, as did Under 23 player Alfie Hill. Bay rested wide men Monty Saunders and Joshua Read, defenders Dan Carrington and Jack Hillier, and forward Kane Rowland. In their place were Artem Kuchkov, Scott Heard and Skye Salmon.

Tonbridge Angels put out a strong side also making five changes from their Saturday match against Weymouth.

This was Bay’s 12th Cup tie of the season, and we have seen some outstanding performances along the way and only let in 7 goals in these earlier games, so after some heavy beatings by Tonbridge in recent cup games, the determination was apparent not to let Tonbridge have an easy game.

There weren’t too many clear chances in the first twenty minutes of the game. A cross-cum-shot from Tonbridge forward Date ran across the face of the goal, and Michael Salako had a shot saved low down by the keeper Norburn making his first senior start.

In the 24th minute, Robinson forced Bexon into saving a shot from a narrow-angle, and the first goal of the evening came from the resulting corner. For once Bay didn’t pick up the Tonbridge centre-back Ethan Sutcliffe who was able to score with a powerful header without any challenge.

Herne Bay were not deterred, and within ten minutes they were level. Salako, assisted by Kane Haysman, controlled and turned in the penalty area, and placed his shot past the home keeper Norbert to level the scores.

A little before half-time, Bay survived a training ground corner routine as the shot from Hanson smashed into the crossbar.

A half-time substitute due to an injury seemed to improve Tonbridge’s attacking as Vincent came on and crossed a lot of dangerous balls into Bay’s penalty area. Most were dealt with by Bay’s defence which included former Tonbridge legend, Jack Parter.

But the decisive move came in the 65th minute after an attack down Bay’s left flank by Kuchkov was broken up, and a quick switch of play by Sutcliffe sent Robinson free to curl an unstoppable shot beyond Bexon to give the hosts a 2-1 lead.

Bay responded by introducing Saunders, Reid, and later Hillier, pushing Reid further forward. Christie cleared a Tonbridge header off the line, and before Bay could settle again, Tonbridge had a couple of shots that were over the bar.

Supporters were hoping for a repeat of Saturday’s free kick when Haysman and Saunders stood over a free kick after Heard had been fouled in a dangerous Bay attack at the edge of the 18-yard box. Alas, the Haysman’s shot didn’t trouble the keeper.

The last chance of the game fell to Hiller, who let fly from a long way out which was deflected for a corner, but Tonbridge held firm for a win.

At the final whistle, the Herne Bay players showed their appreciation for the loyal supporters who had made their voices heard throughout the game, creating a lively atmosphere despite the modest attendance. Both sets of fans and players, contributed to an entertaining evening, and although Bay narrowly missed out, their spirited performance gave plenty for the travelling crowd to cheer about.

Herne Bay: Bexon, Salmon (Reid 60‘), Parter, Christie, Friend, Heard, Hill (Saunders 77‘), E Smith, Salako, Haysman, Kuchkov (Hillier 77‘)

Subs Unused: Rowland, Brooks

Yellow Cards: Salmon (40’)

Next Fixtures:
Saturday 7th December 15:00, away v Ashford United (Isthmian South East)
Tuesday 10th December 19:45, home v Sittingbourne (Isthmian South East)