Leatherhead FC took a huge step towards the play-offs after seeing off a dogged Tonbridge Angels side thanks to a Dan Gallagher strike.

On a cold and blustery afternoon at Fetcham Grove, The Tanners put in an assured performance to move up to sixth in the table and a point off the final play-off place.

After and end to end start in the opening 10 minutes, culminating with the best chance falling to Tonbridge with a shot that went over the bar, Leatherhead grew into the game to control most of the possession.

Tanners boss made a bold decision to bring on striker, Shaun Okojie for young midfielder, Craig McGee and it was the substitute that made an immediate impact by hitting The Angels’ bar. Leatherhead’s top scorer was found in the box by a menacing cross from Misha Djmaili only for his header to clip the woodwork.

The second half saw a fired up Tonbridge Angels take control of the game in the first 15 minutes but their pressure failed to provide any real threat to the Tanners goals as their defence stood firm.

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As it looked the game was drawing ever closer to a stalemate, Dan Gallagher started and finished the move for the only goal in the game.

The midfielder made a fine interception on the half way line before arriving late in the box to slot home from an Ibrahim Olutade cross.

Tonbridge looked to assert some pressure in the last 15 minutes but commanding goalkeeper by Zaki Oulah ensured Leatherhead continued their charge up the table and put an end to an unwanted winless run of three games at Fetcham Grove.

Tanners boss, Nikki Bull said, “I’m delighted we got the three points. We are timing our run to the Play-Offs at the right time but there are still four huge games still to come and we have to take it one at a time.”

Looking ahead to next Saturday’s fixtures against Lewes at Fetcham Grove, Nikki added, “They are a good side and there are no easy games at this level. We obviously owe them one having been beat there 1-0 with a very debatable goal.”