Tommy Warrilow has defended Robbie Kember after a challenge by the Tonbridge midfielder resulted in a season-ending injury for an opponent.

Tuesday’s friendly at Crawley Down was abandoned during the second half after the home side’s Tom Burton suffered a dislocated ankle, torn ligaments, broken fibula and a cracked tibia.

The collision happened near watching Angels boss Warrilow (pictured), who said: “We’re gutted for the lad but there was no malice on Robbie’s part.

“It was a case of two players with their feet on the ground sliding in for the ball.

“Robbie’s not the sort of player who would set out to injure someone and we’re not that sort of side.

“It was a freak accident but when you have two players going for the ball like that, what happens is in the lap of the gods.

“An injury like that was the last thing we wanted to happen.

“John Maggs (Crawley boss) and I go back years. I’ve spoken to him and he’s not blaming anyone.”

Tonbridge were leading through a Mikel Suarez goal when the game was abandoned.

Angels also sent a side to Concord Rangers on Tuesday night, losing 1-0.

Angels take on Blue Square Bet Premier newboys Dartford at Longmead on Saturday at 3pm, followed by what should be a strong Charlton XI side at home on Tuesday (7.45pm).