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Angels ready for relegation shootout

DOLBY: "It is without doubt the biggest game since I took over"
DOLBY: "It is without doubt the biggest game since I took over"
NICK BARNES: Looks set to shake off a knee injury
NICK BARNES: Looks set to shake off a knee injury

Tonbridge Angels v Dover Athletic

TONBRIDGE Angels face the biggest match of their season on Saturday when they face Dover Athletic at Longmead.

The losers are almost certain to be relegated to Ryman League Division One, but three points for either side will significantly boost their survival prospects.

The expected presence of several hundred Dover fans could swell the crowd to over 1,000 for the definitive six-pointer, with Angels player-boss Tony Dolby promising 100 per cent committment.

Dolby said: "It’s without doubt the biggest game since I took over. We’ve got confidence at the moment and we know we’re a good enough side to win.

"Defensively we’re playing well and we’ve looked good going forwards when we’ve been able to play on a decent surface. Our pitch is always going to benefit us and I expect us to give it everything on Saturday."

Dolby himself is suspended and admits to being "not the best spectator in the world", though his passion is sure to come across from the touchline.

A successful recent change to a 4-3-3 formation, and the emergence of teenage defender Mike Cramp, have given Angels fans hope of avoiding the drop. They are looking to extend a run of three games unbeaten, in which they have conceded just once.

"There’s been a big emphasis on thoughts and tactics over our defensive frailties," said Dolby.

"It’s had the desired effect and coupled with a will to win, hopefully that will be enough to see us through."

Danny Lye made a return to the midfield for the 1-1 draw against Wealdstone just 12 days after receiving 18 stitches in a head wound, and will be in the squad to face Dover having suffered no ill-effects from the game.

Nick Barnes is expected to shake off a slight knee injury and stay in the side.

* Dolby also spoke about the importance of Saturday's match in an interview with kmfm sports editor Simon Watts...

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