FANS' GESTURE IS TON-DERFUL

STEVE McKimm knows Tonbridge will still be decked out in blue & white even though Angels fans won’t be in the ground to see their first-round tie with Bradford City – and he says the fundraiser organised by a Bantams fan shows the best side of football.

- Matt Badcock

McKimm’s National League South side have been paired with the League Two big guns after reaching the competition proper for the first time in 48 years.

The boss says fans being locked out for Covid restrictions is tough on everyone associated with the club, but he’s confident they will have plenty of backing regardless.

“The players – and staff – have done extremely well to get there, they’re going to enjoy their day,” McKimm told The NLP. “It’s a pity the fans can’t be there because they would have had the place rocking.

“But the flip side of it is that I know the town will be painted blue and white, the pubs will have it on, making the best of the situation. We’re in the first round of the FA Cup, our fans are good, and they will make the best of whatever is put in front of them.”