After 112 days, football finally returns to the Yeomans Community Stadium, Longmead on Saturday afternoon as Tonbridge Angels welcome Torquay United for their first home game of the 2026/27 Enterprise National League South season. Kick-off is at 3pm.
The Angels could hardly have asked for a better start to the new campaign, producing a ruthless performance to secure an emphatic 4-0 victory away at Braintree Town on the opening day. Alan Dunne’s side will now be looking to build on that result as they return to home soil.
Jephte Tanga struck twice on his full Angels debut, with Lamar Reynolds and Frankie Baker also on target as Tonbridge returned to Kent with four goals and a clean sheet.
Manager’s Thoughts
Manager Alan Dunne is looking forward to seeing the Angels back at Longmead and hopes a big home crowd can help his side build on their impressive opening-day victory.
“Last season I was really impressed by the noise generated by our fans and I want more of the same this season. It makes such a difference; the players love it and I love it. I want Longmead to be rocking every week.”
Dunne also believes there is plenty for supporters to be excited about as the new campaign gets underway.
“I really think something exciting is happening at Tonbridge Angels. I know it’s a bit of a cliché, but we are on a journey here and I want everyone to be part of it. I want the town and the surrounding villages to buy into it.”
The Angels boss has promised that commitment will be matched on the pitch, adding: “I guarantee that every player who puts on an Angels shirt this season will run through brick walls for the cause. I demand energy, commitment, passion and pride in the Angels badge.”
Meanwhile, there is some positive news to report as striker Alfie Pavey returns to the squad and will be available for selection against The Gulls.
Recent Meetings
Saturday’s visitors will be familiar opposition. Torquay were also the visitors for the Angels’ final home game of last season, meaning the two sides will bookend the 112-day wait for competitive football at Longmead.
That April meeting ended in a 2-1 victory for Torquay, while the Angels had enjoyed success at Plainmoor earlier in the campaign, securing a 2-1 win in December. Overall, the last five meetings have been evenly contested, with two victories apiece and one draw.
25 April 2026: Tonbridge Angels 1-2 Torquay United
6 December 2025: Torquay United 1-2 Tonbridge Angels
8 March 2025: Tonbridge Angels 0-1 Torquay United
9 November 2024: Torquay United 0-0 Tonbridge Angels
16 March 2024: Tonbridge Angels 4-1 Torquay United
The Opposition
Torquay United arrive at Longmead having opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against newly promoted Horsham at Plainmoor, with Deon Moore scoring for the Gulls.
They finished third in the National League South last season before narrowly missing out on promotion with a 3-2 defeat to Hornchurch in the play-off final. Torquay also enjoyed a strong pre-season, winning six of their eight fixtures, including victories over Exeter City and Cardiff City U21.
Supporter Information
Kick-Off
3:00pm at Longmead Stadium, with gates opening from 1:00pm.
Match Tickets
Adults: £18
Concessions/Seniors 65+: £15
Youth 12-17: £8
Under 12s: Free
The concession ticket also includes one disabled supporter and their carer.
Matchday Entertainment
There’s plenty happening at Longmead before and after Saturday’s game, with More T Vicar providing live music pre-match and after the final whistle.
Happy Hour runs between 1pm and 2pm and again between 5pm and 6pm, with £1 off all draught drinks, while Carling pints will be available for £4.50 throughout the day.
The entertainment continues after the game with a party in the Meadow Tree Marquee, before Alan Dunne joins supporters for ‘Debrief with Dunney’ from 5:30pm, giving his thoughts on the afternoon’s action.
By Car
Longmead Stadium is located on Darenth Avenue, Tonbridge, TN10 3JF. Supporters travelling via the M25 should join the A21 towards Hastings before following signs for Tonbridge. The ground is well signposted locally, with parking available at the stadium.
By Train
Tonbridge railway station is approximately a 40-minute walk from Longmead Stadium, with taxis also available from the town centre.
After a perfect start on the road, attention now turns to Longmead. 112 days after the Angels last walked out on home soil, and with the same opposition waiting for them, Saturday marks the beginning of a new chapter. Alan Dunne’s side will be hoping to mark their return with another positive result in front of the home support.
