Tonbridge Angels 4-2 Eastbourne Borough
International Club Friendly | July 29, 2026 | 02:45 BST

Tonbridge Angels kicked off their pre-season campaign in emphatic style, overpowering National League South rivals Eastbourne Borough 4-2 under the floodlights at the Halcyon Wealth Longmead Stadium. The friendly, played in the early hours of the morning local time, gave both managers a chance to test new tactical systems and evaluate squad depth ahead of the competitive season.

Match Overview

The Angels wasted no time asserting their authority. Inside the first 12 minutes, a swift counter-attack ended with a crisp finish from striker Tommy Parkinson, who latched onto a through ball from midfield maestro Jordan Peart. Eastbourne responded well, equalising through a well-worked set piece as centre-back Sam Hasler headed home from a corner in the 24th minute.

However, Tonbridge regained the lead before the half-hour mark. Winger Kieran Murtagh cut inside from the left and unleashed a curling effort that nestled into the top corner. The home side continued to dominate possession and were rewarded just before halftime when Murtagh turned provider, crossing for Charlie Allen to nod home from close range, making it 3-1.

Second Half Drama and Standout Performances

Eastbourne Borough emerged with more intensity after the break. Manager Mark Beard made several changes, introducing fresh legs in midfield. The visitors pulled one back in the 57th minute through substitute Luke Tanner, who pounced on a defensive mix-up to slot home. For a spell, the match was finely balanced, with both sides creating chances.

But Tonbridge sealed the victory with a fourth goal in the 73rd minute. Substitute Alex Akrofi showed sharp instinct, collecting a loose ball on the edge of the box and driving a low shot past the Eastbourne goalkeeper. The Angels defended resolutely in the final quarter of the match to secure a confidence-boosting 4-2 win.

Key Takeaways

• Tonbridge Angels showcased attacking fluidity, with four different goalscorers contributing.
• Kieran Murtagh was named man of the match for a goal and an assist.
• Both managers rotated heavily, using all available substitutes to build match fitness.
• The result extends Tonbridge's unbeaten run in pre-season friendlies to two matches.

With the new campaign approaching, Tonbridge Angels will look to carry this momentum forward. Next up for the Angels is a friendly against a Premier League U21 side, while Eastbourne Borough will aim to tighten their defensive shape in training ahead of their next test.