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Post by rjdgull on Nov 6, 2022 7:14:24 GMT
FAN ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
SIX OF THE BEST AS UNITED END HOME HOODO IN STYLE
ELLIS IS THE MARKE SIGNING WE’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR
Over the years of supporting Torquay United there have been highs and lows as one would expect from any football club.
However, facing up to friends and family when the team were relegated from the football league (twice) were tough times but balanced with the euphoria of promotion back, it made one feel that all was right in the football world.
Then came horrors of all horrors, relegation from the top tier of non-league football into the world of regional, part-time football. What a low when United crashed out of the National League into National South. But to the rescue came, ‘been there, got the T-shirt’ Gary Johnson.
Promotion followed swiftly and then the heart-break of the play-off final.
Now it’s back to finding conversations with friends and family difficult once again as the Gulls flounder at the bottom staring relegation in the face. No league wins since September 3 at Southend and none at home since May until Tuesday night.
********
These are tough times needing tough decisions. Do the two United directors stick with the manager or make a change? Decisions like these are difficult and not taken lightly.
For us fans are we going to miss matches next season with ex-League sides like Chesterfield, Wrexham, Southend, York to be replaced by Farnborough, Bath City and a Boxing Day and New Year’s Day derby with Taunton Town? This is the reality of the current situation.
So, it made Tuesday’s re-arranged home game against in-form Aldershot Town crucial.
After sacking manager Mark Molesley Aldershot were five games unbeaten, winning their last three while United have taken only two points from the last six games.
With a goal difference of minus 19 having conceded 32 goals so far it’s easy to see why, at last, an experienced defender in local lad Mark Ellis - the MarkE signing we were promised - joined on Saturday on loan from Barrow.
Ellis made his debut for Torquay on September 22 2007 on loan from Bolton Wanderers in a 5-2 win at Kidderminster. He went on to make 136 league and cup appearances, scoring twelve times, before joining Crewe Alexandra in 2012.
*******
The top versus bottom clash at Meadow Lane ended in a predictable 4-0 home win with ex-Gull Steve Woods, on pundit duty for BBC Radio Devon, saying there was a big gulf in class between the two teams and after the first goal United were second best. Notts County had more players who could affect the game.
His advice? Woods stressed the importance of “being together and staying together as a club.”
This was underlined by the 330 Yellow Army in a crowd of 7,563, “a fantastic effort” according to Woods.
To be fair Johnson is being given every support from the club with the three signings all playing a part on Saturday and with the arrival of Stephen Wearne for Tuesday night’s clash.
Even Jurgen Klopp is going through a difficult time especially after losing at home to Leeds United but he has the full support of the club and fans.
Whilst Tuesday’s 6-1 win came out of the blue, boy was it welcome for it was a real team performance with probably Tom Lapslie’s goal the pick of the six. But how good was it to see a Jarvis hat-trick?
*******
One manager who has stepped down last week was Neil Cugley of Folkestone Invicta of the Isthmian League Premier Division. What’s newsworthy about this? Well, Cugley has been in charge for 26 years, a pretty impressive record managing 1,299 games. He’s the longest serving manager in English football since Arsene Wenger left Arsenal in 2018.
National League Crowd Watch: 10,107 at Wrexham, 7,370 at Chesterfield and 4,915 at York City.
*******
Torquay’s women’s team, suffering from their own injury crisis with only two on the bench, were involved in a topsy-turvey match at league rivals Bishop’s Lydeard on Sunday. After going an early goal down due to a defensive mix-up, United clawed themselves back into the match thanks to a cross, come shot from Ocean Latto’s left foot as it sailed into the net and then Ellie Bishop slotted home to give the Gulls a half-time lead.
With the advantage of the slope the home side drew level with a 30 yard free-kick and then against the run of play another 30 yarder hit the back of the net. Fortunately, Steve Elswood’s side never gave up and a solo effort from Ellie Bishop gave Torquay a deserved share of the points.
*******
What’s going on at Bury AFC, the former football league club? Plans to merge the two fan groups to bring Bury FC back to Gigg Lane have failed following a crunch vote last week. Supporters were asked to vote on proposals to unite the two fan groups, the Shakers Community Society and Bury Football Club Supporters Society (BFCSS), in a bid to ensure men’s football returns to its spiritual home in the town.
Gigg Lane has been empty for three years since Bury FC were thrown out of the EFL. In the wake of their demise a group of fans formed Bury AFC.
In the vote 94% of the Shakers Community Society voted in favour but only 62.9% of the BFCSS did, which was not enough as a two thirds majority was required.
This, though, is certainly not the end of the story.
*******
Regular readers will be aware that TUST was one of the founding members of the South-West Supporters’ Trust group along with Argyle and Exeter City trusts. At a meeting recently, now with representatives from Bristol City, Hereford FC, Swindon Town and Yeovil, the group, the only one of its kind in the UK, discussed topics such as live streaming, early kick-offs and the fan-led review.
********
There are still mixed feelings about whether clubs should move fixtures to mid-day on Saturdays to avoid the use of floodlights, to help cut down on energy costs.
This Sunday Johnson’s squad can forget about league matches and bask in the limelight of national TV as ITV broadcasts United’s FA Cup match with Derby County live from Plainmoor with a 3pm kick-off.
********
Last week saw a flurry of new members joining TUST for which we thank each one of you. You can also send your football thoughts to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet.
Let’s get behind the team and enjoy the magic of the FA Cup.
COYY
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rjdgull
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Post by rjdgull on Nov 14, 2022 8:56:30 GMT
FAN ZONE TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. SUNDAY FELT LIKE A GOODWIN AS UNITED ARE A TV DREAM NEIL WARNOCK TO THE RESCUE WHILE ROBIN STUBBS RECALLS HIS HAT-TRICK TU on TV, Torquay United and television are a match made in heaven after not only the thrills and spills of Sunday’s ITV1 FA Cup blockbuster but also the recent eight-goal thriller on BT Sport when United grabbed a Gary Time fourth goal against Altrincham. Gary Johnson’s side are fast gaining a reputation for wonderful TV football with wholehearted displays which will have had even neutrals on the edge of their seats - TV dreamland. This time it was recently relegated from the Championship Derby County on the receiving end of Johnson’s never-say-die young lads bolstered by the ever impressive Mark Ellis at the back. What a difference his experience has made. In both these TV games viewers have had penalties and red cards and not to mention late, late equalisers. ******* What an occasion Sunday turned out to be despite some horrendous torrential rain so great credit to the club for, firstly, the vast improvements to the drainage and quality of the pitch over the last two pre-seasons not to mention the expense. And secondly, full-marks to the ground staff for ensuring the game went ahead. You have to also take your hat off to the club, particularly CEO George Edwards, for the little touches to promote not only the club but also Torbay with the electronic LED pitch advertising specially installed for the occasion and the yellow clackers distributed for free, greatly enjoyed by the children (and young at heart) who used them to create a terrific noisy atmosphere. For those of us of a certain age this was a cup tie reminiscent of bye-gone days, with the underdogs fighting back and taking the bigger club to a replay. With 4,269 inside Plainmoor, whilst it may not have been a sold out fixture, it brought in extra fans who may not have watched United for some time. Could the thrilling end see them return to some of the forthcoming home league games? Derby disappointingly only brought just over 600 but with a trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool in the EFL Carabao Cup on Wednesday, reportedly selling nearly 6,000 tickets, it’s understandable that the majority, in these tough financial times, have chosen Liverpool. However, it just goes to show how many visiting fans would come into the Bay to boost the local economy were United to regain its EFL status. So, a replay it is with a trip for the winners to Newport County as ball 31 was the last to be drawn. With the Derby replay on Tuesday on BBC 3 there’s the prospect of more money into the club and were United to win this the next round at Newport County is also to be on ITV1. United’s TV fame continues! ******** It was great to see a number of ex-Gulls at the match and I had some good chats with Ian Holloway, such an extrovert, and Kevin Hill, a Torquay manager of the future as he works his apprenticeship as manager at Exmouth Town. And what a lucky charm having Neil Warnock watching proved to be, for as he explained to me after the game, “I’ve watched five of the teams I’ve managed over my career so far this season, three wins and now two draws and no defeats.” Please could he come back soon! ******* Before the match Gary Johnson said to the players, “What would you like the TV commentators to say about you?” as a motivation. Guess Will Goodwin took this to heart for he ‘won’ the penalty and scored the 90+5 minute late goal drama, well it certainly felt like a good win. Congratulations to him after being named in the Vanarama FA Cup Team of the Week. ******* FA Cup Giant Killers’ Crowd Watch: Alvechurch won at Cheltenham in front of 4,406, Northampton Town crashed out at Chesterfield watched by 5,886, 3,965 saw King’s Lynn grab a Round 2 tie at the expense of Doncaster Rovers, Chippenham Town had an historic victory over Lincoln City with 2,175. Other notable FA Cup crowds: Portsmouth survived an early scare at Hereford FC before winning comfortably in front of 4,912 while Forest Green Rovers, including Armani Little, won at South Shields with 3,800 in attendance. ******* With the main side grabbing an FA Cup lifeline, Ryan Dickson’s Under-18s bowed out of the FA Youth Cup with a 3-1 defeat away to Oxford United. 3-0 down at half-time United had a better second half with George Collins scoring a consolation goal. Torquay’s Women’s side battled to a close 1-0 league victory over Bristol Rovers Women thanks to an early strike from Mia Preston. ******* Aaron Jarvis who claimed the match ball was the first hat-trick by a Torquay player against Aldershot since March 1965 scored by….Robin Stubbs. And he also scored the previous hat-trick against the Shots in December 1964. When I reminded Robin of these feats he recalled his third in 1965 was from the half-way line; he always did score spectacular goals. And on the same night Jarvis scored his three, ex-Gull Billy Waters hit his first career hat-trick for Barrow. ******* Last Tuesday’s National League fixtures drew in another batch of impressive crowd figures: 9,914 at Wrexham, 6,389 at Notts County, 6,178 at Chesterfield while Southend took 2,000 to Barnet. Despite the off field disputes amongst their fans, Bury AFC won 2-0 in front of 1,261. ******* There were over 2,000 inside Home Park last week for the funeral of popular BBC Radio Devon and Argyle fan Gordon Sparks. His coffin was carried out of the ground to the sound of Status Quo’s ‘Rockin’ All Over The World’. ******* Save the date: TUST’s AGM is being held at Torquay Athletic Rugby club on Thursday November 24th. More details next week. United’s new third shirt is described as ‘beetroot purple’. Is that your taste? Are you likely to buy one? fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet So, it was a return to league action on Tuesday with the visit of the Wanderers, no not Bolton or even Wycombe but newcomers Dorking. Another three points would have been welcome, potentially taking us out of the bottom four but it wasn’t to be. The only winners were those who, before the game, predicted plenty of goals. As the Dorking owner/manager Marc White said, to win a game they have to score four and Gary Johnson could say the same! Then tomorrow high-flying Chesterfield come to the Bay with or without Lucas Covolan? COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk/ |
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Post by rjdgull on Nov 19, 2022 13:56:53 GMT
Fan Zone 19/11/2022
WHAT ON EARTH HAPPENS AT HALF-TIME?
AS UNITED’S FA CUP JOURNEY ENDS THE WOMEN’S SIDE SHOW THE WAY
FULL CREDIT TO THE YELLOW ARMY SUPPORT
These are testing times to admit to being a Torquay United supporter, up one minute and down the next. For one moment, after walloping Aldershot, getting out of the relegation zone seemed a distinct possibility but the next little old Dorking Wanderers, bringing a fresh look to the National League, brought all dedicated fans back to reality.
Saturday’s second half shocker underlined the struggle the club is facing as the games go by and the goals go in.
It was August 13 the last time United kept a clean sheet. If you’re a neutral living in the Bay and you’ve watched all the home league fixtures this season you’ll have seen 44 goals in ten games, sadly 25 of them in the wrong net.
It doesn’t take a genius to work out what needs fixing and even the arrival of the much travelled and experienced Mark Ellis and Lucas Ness have failed to stem the flow.
And for how much longer will Ellis be able to stay as his home is in Nantwich where his family live?
It’s looking very much like Johnson will need to offload a number of his summer signings who clearly have failed to make their mark in order to bring a few, fit-for-purpose, newcomers in the EFL January transfer window.
*******
Here’s a sobering Spot the Difference:
5 February 2022 Wrexham (Home) Won 1-0
9 April 2022 Notts County (Home) Won 5-1
7 May 2022 Chesterfield (Home) Won 2-0
24 September 2022 Wrexham (Away) Lost 0-6
29 October Notts County (Away) Lost 0-4
12 November 2022 Chesterfield (Home) Lost 1-5
*******
The most recent league stats make for uncomfortable reading: 5 points from the last 18, one win and three defeats with goals for 14, against 18. If there needs to be an inquest into what’s gone wrong one place to start is what for goodness sake happens at half-time? Against Derby we concede within minutes of the re-start; against Dorking we concede two inside the next ten minutes and then, lo and behold, the same happens against Chesterfield on Saturday.
The only glimmer of hope has been United’s FA Cup exploits. Firstly, the recovery from 0-2 down to Derby County to a much deserved draw in front of the ITV cameras.
But that was extinguished, again in front of national TV cameras, on Tuesday night at Pride Park where United ended up playing for pride in front of over 800 travelling supporters - what a great turnout.
*******
Torquay have only one home victory so far with five draws in a remarkable
sequence: v Oldham 0-0, v Scunthorpe 1-1, v Hampton 2-2, v Dorking 3-3,
v Altrincham 4-4.
Last weekend was the final round of Premier League fixtures before the World Cup gets underway on tomorrow as Qatar take on Ecuador. England’s opening match is on Monday afternoon against Iran to be shown on BBC.
*******
On Saturday December 3 the National League, to avoid a potential clash with England or Wales, can be moved to either a 12.30pm kick-off, or to a Friday evening or even Sunday. United are due to play at Dagenham & Redbridge.
National League Crowd Watch: Southend’s season has completely turned around after United beat them back in September as they’ve now gone 11 games unbeaten with a 2-0 win over Dorking in front of 6,400. Oldham are finding life in non-league just as tough as the EFL and lost at home to Barnet with 6,014 in attendance.
*******
At least one United side is leading the way, Steve Elswood’s Women’s team recorded a wonderful 2-0 away victory over Warminster Town Ladies thanks to goals from Mia Preston and Ellie Bishop and now progress into Round 2 of the Vitality FA Cup for the first time in their history.
Their reward is an away tie at Bournemouth Sports Ladies on Sunday November 27. Not content with that, United signed midfielder Anthea Kaptein from Ilminster Town Ladies after previously being at Exeter City on Monday to strengthen their quest for promotion.
A hat-trick from Jayden Gilbert, two from Ben Aldous and one from Brandon Quinn gave United’s Under-18s a comprehensive 6-2 league win at Mangotsfield.
******
Ex-Gull Alex Fletcher, who had a loan spell from Plymouth Argyle, suffered an horrendous head injury whilst playing for Bath City when he collided with a perimeter advertising board.
The latest information released from the hospital reports that Alex remains in a critical condition in intensive care but is starting to show small signs of improvement.
Many non-league teams on Saturday stopped their matches in the 7th minute, Alex’s shirt number is number 7, to show a unity with a round of applause.
On a happier note, congratulations to another ex-Gull, Kevin Nicholson, on his promotion to assistant manager at Exeter City.
*******
TUST holds its AGM next Thursday, November 24 at 6.30pm, at the Torquay Athletic rugby club, open to all TUST members. There’s a free pasty (vegetarian available) with a free drink.
*******
So, last Sunday those at Plainmoor along with those watching on TV witnessed a peaceful pitch invasion celebrating Will Goodwin’s late equaliser. With the FA clamping down on such events is it likely that the club will find itself in trouble? No doubt it depends on what the match referee will have written in his report.
This promised to be a busy week for United’s travelling supporters with a trip to Derby followed by a trek to London today for a match with Ben Wynter’s Barnet.
*******
Opinions about United’s new ‘beetroot purple’ shirt were like Marmite; there are those who think it’s great while others are not impressed as they question why there is a need for a third shirt.
This week what are your views about United’s survival hopes? Send your opinion to:
fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
COYY
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SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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rjdgull
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Post by rjdgull on Nov 23, 2022 10:52:13 GMT
Dear member Just a final reminder that the AGM is being held this Thursday at 6.30pm at Torquay Athletic Rugby Football Club. A free drink, pastie and entry into a draw for a signed 1999/2000 ball for all attendees. If you are unable to come along in person you can join us via Zoom - see the link on the attached agenda. -- Rick Williams Secretary Torquay United Supporters Trust www.tust.co.ukTorquay United Supporters' Trust is a registered society under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (registered as Torquay United Supporters' Society Limited, registration number 30153R. Reg Office 4 Church End Road, Kingskerswell, Devon, TQ12 5DS. |
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Post by Jon on Nov 24, 2022 17:30:54 GMT
Dear member Just a final reminder that the AGM is being held this Thursday at 6.30pm at Torquay Athletic Rugby Football Club. A free drink, pastie and entry into a draw for a signed 1999/2000 ball for all attendees. If you are unable to come along in person you can join us via Zoom - see the link on the attached agenda. -- Rick Williams Secretary Torquay United Supporters Trust www.tust.co.ukTorquay United Supporters' Trust is a registered society under the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (registered as Torquay United Supporters' Society Limited, registration number 30153R. Reg Office 4 Church End Road, Kingskerswell, Devon, TQ12 5DS. Bump. See you later. |
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rjdgull
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Post by rjdgull on Dec 9, 2022 15:18:48 GMT
9th December 2022 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. TV SIX POINTER AWAITS WHILE NATIONAL LEAGUE TV UP AND RUNNING LIVE STREAMING ON THE WAY AND THREE-UP THREE-DOWN? UNITED WOMEN HOME IN ON LEAGUE LEADERS With shops and radio stations blasting out ‘It’s Christmassss’ and other festive tunes, we know it’s December and the season of goodwill. But for Torquay United’s long-suffering fans it’s the season of Goodwin. A good win in every sense as a lone strike from the Gulls’ loan striker Will Goodwin saw United grab all three points in a tense victory over usually reliable at home Dagenham & Redbridge. Manager Gary Johnson is on record saying he wants to be out of the bottom four by Christmas and with one fixture remaining, a visit on Sunday to Oldham, another win could see his wish come true. Oldham, though, had a match at Boreham Wood on Tuesday and their loss cemented their place in 23rd. Sunday’s game is on BT Sport and from United’s other televised appearances this season they clearly enjoy being in the limelight; their three TV appearances have been entertaining affairs with a total of 17 goals to savour including two late, late Gary Time equalisers. ******* And talking of TV, the National League has, at last, given details of the forthcoming live streaming between Boxing Day, when it begins in full, and the end of the season. For a day pass of £9.50, supporters will be able to access National League TV, to take your pick of which game - and you’ll be able to switch between matches - as opposed to buying a pass for an individual match of a specific club. No matches will be screened on Saturdays between 2.45pm and 5.15pm as stated in UEFA Article 48. Matches screened live on BT Sport won’t be included on the platform. There is no cost to clubs as games will be filmed by outside cameras while commentary will come from local radio or club feeds. Whilst the distribution of revenue might favour the better attended sides, especially those with big away followings, it is a step in the right direction which will surely appeal to clubs’ exiles whether in the UK or abroad. Overseas viewers will have monthly or season ticket options and they are not affected by the Article 48 blackout. ******** Last weekend was a good one to admit being part of the Yellow Army as United’s Women claimed a comfortable 3-0 victory at Poole Town Ladies with Esme Kilburn Thompson (2) and regular scorer Ellie Bishop on target. The win came on the day league leaders Forest Green fell to defeat at home to Bristol Rovers; Steve Elswood’s side take on Forest Green on Sunday at Coach Road, six points behind them but the Gulls have three games in hand. ******* National League Crowd Watch: York City, with a new manager David Webb (no, not that one) snatched a late draw against Wrexham in front of 7,145; Southend had 5,593 while strugglers Scunthorpe had their gate boosted to 4,196 thanks to visitors Notts County bringing plenty. In National North 2,268 were at Chester. ******* With fancied Belgium and Germany both out, England’s 3-0 win over Senegal on Sunday sets up a fascinating Quarter-Final clash with a French side, tres formidable. This tie should certainly pull in a massive TV audience on both sides of the Channel. Who knew that this year’s World Cup ball, made by Adidas, is called ‘Al Rihla’, in English translated as ‘the journey’? In a previous World Cup the ball, ‘Jabulani’, used in 2010, caused problems to goalkeepers because of its swerve in flight. This time around players are finding it difficult to cross and more importantly to take free kicks, although Marcus Rashford disproved this. Adidas design director Franziska Loffelmann had this to say, “The new design allows the ball to maintain a significantly higher speed as it journeys through the air.” Amazingly, the Al Rihla has a motion sensor in it to help with VAR decisions, using artificial intelligence to track the ball for offside decisions using FIFA’s semi-automated offside technology. For those of us brought up on lace-up balls which weighed a ton when wet, all this is mind boggling; while those of us at Plainmoor just want to see it in the opposition net more times than in ours! ******* Great news at the weekend about ex-Gull, Bath City striker Alex Fletcher who came out of hospital following his serious head injury. He messaged the following, “Whilst I know it may take some time to get back out on the pitch, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all once again for your incredible care, love and support.” ******* With United moving off the bottom of the table they were replaced by Scunthorpe United, last season in League 2, and up to the end of last week, no staff at Scunthorpe had been paid for November and the sale of the club had fallen through. Then, within days two local business men, Simon Elliott and Ian Sharp, agreed to take over but they still have no permanent manager. ******* Following on from the start of the VIP Treats for children, the club announced Christmas Tours for 100 kids and within days this was sold out. In addition the club has joined with Torbay Council to promote Guide Dogs for the Blind - a very worthy cause. Full credit to the club for its #OneClub #One Community projects during the year. ******* There’s breaking news that the National League are in ‘constructive talks’ with the EFL about three-up, three-down between League 2 and the National League. More details in next week’s column. Who’s your tip to win the World Cup? Send your prediction to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet. Next week look forward to Part One of the Christmas Quiz. Safe travels to those going to Oldham on Sunday while others sit in front of a TV - in the warm. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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rjdgull
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Post by rjdgull on Dec 9, 2022 15:18:50 GMT
9th December 2022 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. TV SIX POINTER AWAITS WHILE NATIONAL LEAGUE TV UP AND RUNNING LIVE STREAMING ON THE WAY AND THREE-UP THREE-DOWN? UNITED WOMEN HOME IN ON LEAGUE LEADERS With shops and radio stations blasting out ‘It’s Christmassss’ and other festive tunes, we know it’s December and the season of goodwill. But for Torquay United’s long-suffering fans it’s the season of Goodwin. A good win in every sense as a lone strike from the Gulls’ loan striker Will Goodwin saw United grab all three points in a tense victory over usually reliable at home Dagenham & Redbridge. Manager Gary Johnson is on record saying he wants to be out of the bottom four by Christmas and with one fixture remaining, a visit on Sunday to Oldham, another win could see his wish come true. Oldham, though, had a match at Boreham Wood on Tuesday and their loss cemented their place in 23rd. Sunday’s game is on BT Sport and from United’s other televised appearances this season they clearly enjoy being in the limelight; their three TV appearances have been entertaining affairs with a total of 17 goals to savour including two late, late Gary Time equalisers. ******* And talking of TV, the National League has, at last, given details of the forthcoming live streaming between Boxing Day, when it begins in full, and the end of the season. For a day pass of £9.50, supporters will be able to access National League TV, to take your pick of which game - and you’ll be able to switch between matches - as opposed to buying a pass for an individual match of a specific club. No matches will be screened on Saturdays between 2.45pm and 5.15pm as stated in UEFA Article 48. Matches screened live on BT Sport won’t be included on the platform. There is no cost to clubs as games will be filmed by outside cameras while commentary will come from local radio or club feeds. Whilst the distribution of revenue might favour the better attended sides, especially those with big away followings, it is a step in the right direction which will surely appeal to clubs’ exiles whether in the UK or abroad. Overseas viewers will have monthly or season ticket options and they are not affected by the Article 48 blackout. ******** Last weekend was a good one to admit being part of the Yellow Army as United’s Women claimed a comfortable 3-0 victory at Poole Town Ladies with Esme Kilburn Thompson (2) and regular scorer Ellie Bishop on target. The win came on the day league leaders Forest Green fell to defeat at home to Bristol Rovers; Steve Elswood’s side take on Forest Green on Sunday at Coach Road, six points behind them but the Gulls have three games in hand. ******* National League Crowd Watch: York City, with a new manager David Webb (no, not that one) snatched a late draw against Wrexham in front of 7,145; Southend had 5,593 while strugglers Scunthorpe had their gate boosted to 4,196 thanks to visitors Notts County bringing plenty. In National North 2,268 were at Chester. ******* With fancied Belgium and Germany both out, England’s 3-0 win over Senegal on Sunday sets up a fascinating Quarter-Final clash with a French side, tres formidable. This tie should certainly pull in a massive TV audience on both sides of the Channel. Who knew that this year’s World Cup ball, made by Adidas, is called ‘Al Rihla’, in English translated as ‘the journey’? In a previous World Cup the ball, ‘Jabulani’, used in 2010, caused problems to goalkeepers because of its swerve in flight. This time around players are finding it difficult to cross and more importantly to take free kicks, although Marcus Rashford disproved this. Adidas design director Franziska Loffelmann had this to say, “The new design allows the ball to maintain a significantly higher speed as it journeys through the air.” Amazingly, the Al Rihla has a motion sensor in it to help with VAR decisions, using artificial intelligence to track the ball for offside decisions using FIFA’s semi-automated offside technology. For those of us brought up on lace-up balls which weighed a ton when wet, all this is mind boggling; while those of us at Plainmoor just want to see it in the opposition net more times than in ours! ******* Great news at the weekend about ex-Gull, Bath City striker Alex Fletcher who came out of hospital following his serious head injury. He messaged the following, “Whilst I know it may take some time to get back out on the pitch, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all once again for your incredible care, love and support.” ******* With United moving off the bottom of the table they were replaced by Scunthorpe United, last season in League 2, and up to the end of last week, no staff at Scunthorpe had been paid for November and the sale of the club had fallen through. Then, within days two local business men, Simon Elliott and Ian Sharp, agreed to take over but they still have no permanent manager. ******* Following on from the start of the VIP Treats for children, the club announced Christmas Tours for 100 kids and within days this was sold out. In addition the club has joined with Torbay Council to promote Guide Dogs for the Blind - a very worthy cause. Full credit to the club for its #OneClub #One Community projects during the year. ******* There’s breaking news that the National League are in ‘constructive talks’ with the EFL about three-up, three-down between League 2 and the National League. More details in next week’s column. Who’s your tip to win the World Cup? Send your prediction to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet. Next week look forward to Part One of the Christmas Quiz. Safe travels to those going to Oldham on Sunday while others sit in front of a TV - in the warm. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Dec 22, 2022 20:14:54 GMT
22nd December 2022 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. GREATEST WORLD CUP FINAL EVER? UNITED SCRAPE PAST LOWLY CHIPPENHAM AS THEY BUILD UP TO BOXING DAY On the day England manager Gareth Southgate announced he would remain in his role to take the Three Lions into Euro 2024, Sunday’s World Cup final lived up to all expectations and more. Billed as the contest between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe it didn’t disappoint, as the match erupted into a great finale just when the French seemed out on their feet after a virus had gone through their squad. Messi’s brilliance and Mbappe’s power were a joy to watch and it seemed such a pity the result had to be decided by penalties. It was certainly a great battle between the two number tens, it was as if they said to each other ‘you score one, I’ll score one.’ The Frenchman ended up with a terrific hat-trick, the first in a final since Sir Geoff Hurst who tweeted that ‘I’ve had a good run!’…..56 years. All the pundits agreed as surely did everyone else watching that this was the most exciting World Cup final of all time and congratulations to Argentina. Spare a thought for France’s Tottenham keeper Hugo Lloris who in tournament football has failed to save a single penalty, that’s 0 out of 9. Last word on the final must surely go to the match referee, Poland’s Szymon Marciniak whose handling of the contest, particularly of Argentina, was immaculate. Wish there are more like him. ****** Saturday’s seemingly meaningless game for bronze was also a refreshing change from many of the previous matches in this year’s World Cup as so many national coaches appear besotted with endless possession football inside their own half. Both Croatia and Morocco gave it a right go with the former deserving their third place but full credit to Morocco the first African nation to reach this stage. Southgate, if he’s staying on, should take a leaf out of the current tactics of England’s cricket set-up. Under New Zealand coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes their players have been given the freedom to play for joy and entertainment. This lifting of restrictions gave England a great summer of successful cricket which has been followed up by an historic series win in Pakistan. Now, if only England, and dare we add, Torquay United go with this kind of spirit; take the shackles off and allow individual creativity with attacking football. ****** The World Cup weekend made up for United’s match being postponed due to a frozen pitch - can anyone remember when the last fixture at Plainmoor was called off? United’s Boxing Day opponents Yeovil Town managed to play their FA Trophy match going out on penalties to Dorking Wanderers. Yeovil’s defence has tightened up since manager Mark Cooper took over but scoring goals they find a little harder so maybe not a big scoring game this time around. ******* With United winning - just - against a spirited Chippenham Town in Tuesday’s FA Trophy, it now sets up an intriguing 4th Round tie with Somerset rivals Taunton Town on January 14. National South Taunton Town earlier this season knocked Yeovil out of the FA Cup. ****** Next, news about the futures of two clubs: York City and West Bromwich Albion. At York, the takeover of the club six months ago when new owner Glen Henderson took over has not gone to plan. Henderson has failed to gain supporters’ trust especially after he controversially sacked popular manager John Asked last month. He has now decided to sell his 51% shareholding offering it to the York City Supporters’ Trust who hold the other 49%. They are now looking into how they could raise the funds, assuming they want full ownership. Meanwhile, in the Midlands fans at the Hawthorns, despite West Brom clocking up their fifth successive victory on Saturday, 3-0 over ex-Exeter City manager Matt Taylor’s Rotherham, have growing concerns over the club’s owner Guochuan Lai. Lai took over in September 2016 paying around £200m but has only been seen at one game in the past four years. With £10million in loans, cash running out and no sign of investment, fans are becoming concerned. Action for Albion has been set up to highlight concerns and there have been demonstrations at some home games. ****** CHRISTMAS QUIZ PART TWO July to December 7. Will Goodwin joined in July on loan from which EFL club? 8. Which ex-Gull returned to Plainmoor to be Head of Youth? 9. 87,192 were at Wembley in August to witness what in the Women’s Euro Final? 10. Which ex-Gull favourite re-joined the club on loan from Barrow? 11. Who scored these United goals a) the late goal in the 4-4 TV draw against Altrincham b) the winning goal at Hampton and c) the equalising goal against Derby County at Plainmoor in the FA Cup? 12. What did the club launch with TUST support for local children in November? Send your answers, together with your name and address to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet. Closing date is 12 noon Saturday December 31 2022. £10 Torquay United club shop gift voucher for winner for Part One and another for winner of Part Two. Good luck! Question setter’s decision is final. ******* For those who can’t make Plainmoor on Boxing Day, check out National League TV, for £9.50 you can watch the match on your phone/laptop. A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all readers of this column; thank you for your support. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Dec 30, 2022 10:05:55 GMT
30th December 2022 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. NO LATE GIFTS FOR UNITED ON BOXING DAY AS MANAGER SEES RED AND COULD THESE BE THE CHANGES TO FOOTBALL IN 2023? STILL TIME TO ENTER THE CHRISTMAS QUIZ For those hoping for a Boxing Day pick-me-up to see Torquay United give its long suffering Yellow Army a Christmas cracker there would have been many going home afterwards prepared to look forward to yet more turkey and Christmas pudding. It was another disappointing home performance as Torquay United threw away three points, a much needed morale boosting second home league win of the season as well as climbing out of the bottom four. In front of 3,805 United should have been comfortably ahead at half-time with more goals to show than just the lone header from Mark Ellis. In the end United were grateful to cling on to a point. It was yet another National League match with bemusing refereeing decisions. How Dylan Crowe was the only player to be sent off is puzzling. Although United manager Gary Johnson was given one right at the end of the match. With a winner looking likely for the away side as the minutes ticked by, United were mightily relieved to hear the final whistle as by that time they were down to nine. Few players came out of the match in credit but both Shaun Donnellan and Mark Halstead saved the day on more than one occasion. This result sets up an intriguing return on New Year’s Day at Huish Park. United need to go into the New Year on the front foot with surely January bringing about some wheeling and dealing in the transfer market. ******* Whilst 2022 on the pitch has been one to forget, off it the club has made great strides with its #One Club #One Community projects. Looking at the review of the year on the club’s website you will read a lengthy and impressive review of the year as, month-by-month, the club has been instrumental in setting up an amazing number of community projects ranging from free match day tickets to deserving local causes, supporting mental welfare local charities through to VIP Children’s treats. ******* Non-League Boxing Day Crowd Watch: Wrexham had a season’s best 10,150 for their emphatic win over Solihull Moors, Notts County pulled in 9,789 for a comfortable win over Oldham. Southend lost at home in front of 6,660 and rock bottom Scunthorpe’s home defeat was watched by 4,156. The Boxing Day derby in National North between Hereford FC and Kidderminster drew 3,221 while Macclesfield whose best so far this season was 3,765 had a whopping 4,512. With Oldham and Scunthorpe struggling in the relegation zone, it’s looking grim as they turn into 2023. Only seven ex-EFL clubs have been relegated from the National League/Conference after losing their Football League status. Scarborough were the first in 2007. In 2018 York City became the first to suffer back-to-back relegations from the EFL into the National League then into National North. ******* So, what’s 2023 got in store for football? All the indications are that the Government’s fan-led review White Paper will, at long last, be published. Will it, though, lead to the overhaul of football’s governance? The introduction of an independent regulator is looking likely and maybe three-up, three-down between League 2 and the National League will be announced. There are signs that the Premier League are going to trial, with FIFA’s permission, concussion substitutes along the lines of those used in rugby union. The FA has also said they will be launching a major clampdown on referee abuse especially at grass-roots level where matches have had to abandoned and even cancelled. A tougher stance against inappropriate behaviour and abuse will be outlined in the new document. ******* Ex-Gull Alex Fletcher who suffered horrific head injuries after colliding with a perimeter wall whilst playing for Bath City made an emotional return before the Boxing Day fixture against Chippenham to thank everyone for their support as he continues on the recovery path. ******* CHRISTMAS QUIZ For those of you still intending to enter this year’s quiz here are the questions again: 1. In January Stephen Duke-McKenna joined United from which Championship club? 2. What international recognition did Armani Little and Ben Wynter get in March? 3. Which former United and Manchester United manager died in March? 4. What success did Torquay United Women have in April after a penalty shoot-out? 5. United’s Under-18s won the treble, League and two cups. Who was their manager? 6. Who was United’s Player of the Season for 2021-2022? 7. Will Goodwin joined in July on loan from which EFL club? 8. Which ex-Gull returned to Plainmoor to be Head of Youth? 9. 87,192 were at Wembley in August to witness what in the Women’s Euro Final? 10. Which ex-Gull favourite re-joined the club on loan from Barrow? 11. Who scored these United goals a) the late goal in the 4-4 draw on TV with Altrincham, b) the winning goal at Hampton and c) in the home FA Cup draw with Derby County? 12. What did TUST launch with the club in November? Your entry should be sent with your name and address to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet All correct answers could win one lucky reader a £20 Torquay United club shop gift voucher. Closing date for entries is Saturday December 31 2022 at 12noon. Good luck! Question setter’s decision is final. ******* So, into 2023 we tread and we all hope for an upturn in fortunes starting at Yeovil on New Year’s Day. If you can’t make the game don’t forget the NationalLeagueTV live streaming for £9.50. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Jan 7, 2023 12:14:05 GMT
6th January 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. UNITED LET DOWN THE BRAVE 800 IN THE YEOVIL RAIN SHAUN DONNELLAN STARTS TO SHOW HIS WORTH CHRISTMAS QUIZ 2022 ANSWERS AND WINNER A Very Happy, prosperous and successful 2023 to all readers of this column. Yet another wet and miserable New Year’s Day on the open terrace for the brave 802 travelling Yellow Army as they watched the home side secure all three points with two late goals. Whilst this was a spirited performance from Torquay, it was Yeovil who, in the end, had the killer touch. Both keepers were kept busy with Grant Smith in the home goal and United’s Mark Halstead pulling off important saves. The defeat leaves the Gulls rooted firmly in the bottom four and it was surprising that Gary Johnson said last week at his Press Call that he’s happy with the squad as it is. Many fans are questioning the wisdom of this, feeling that unless there is some new blood then relegation is inevitable. And it is hard to argue against this. Then in his post match comments on Sunday he told us to expect a couple of signings to ‘ignite us a little bit more.’ Surely a manager of Johnson’s calibre cannot be happy with the current situation, only four league wins all season out of twenty-five with just one at home. As he said after the latest defeat even the directors are beginning to question what’s going on. ******* Just take a look at the record so far, against the other five sides in the bottom six, United have drawn four, lost three, winning none. Although it’s not an excuse, Torquay have the fifth youngest squad in the division. As regards individuals, looking at positives, Halstead ranks seventh in the league for goalkeeping saves, well he has plenty of practice, 74 before the Yeovil games. Dillon de Silva is recorded as being one of the quickest in the league, his dribbling rate placing him fifth. Unfortunately, there are too many other weak links which rather underlines the need for some fresh faces. And one of them, Ricky Aguiar joins for a month from Swindon Town. ******* However, one player who seems to have risen close to National League standard is Summer signing Shaun Donnellan. Donnellan was on the books of West Brom from 2015-2018 but never played for them spending much of his time out on loan. He had Football League experience at Stevenage, Walsall and Yeovil when they were in League 2. In the National League he had a loan spell at Dagenham before signing for Woking in 2019 where he played 43 times. Next stop was Maidenhead playing 28 games last season before Gary Johnson signed him. As one Torquay United supporter said, “Donnellan sums up the season for me. A decent utility back-up man, can ‘do a job’ at right-back, centre-back or central midfield. Unfortunately, Donnellan is miles better than any of those signed for those positions - if there were four of him they would all be in the starting line-up.” ******* New Year’s Day Non-League Crowd Watch: It was a day of some great attendances. In the National League Chesterfield thumped bottom club Scunthorpe in front of 7,751, fellow strugglers Oldham snatched a valuable draw with Notts County watched by 7,312. Woking kept up their play-off hopes as 5,297 crammed in as they beat local rivals Aldershot. In National North local derbies drew the crowds: 3,421 for Kidderminster v. Hereford while Chester v. Telford had 3,007. In National South: Impressive crowds for Dartford v. Ebbsfleet 3,386 and 3,107 for St Albans v. Hemel Hempstead. ******* Those of you who follow non-league football will surely recall the furore over the National League’s handling of the monies allocated to its 66 member clubs during the Covid-19 pandemic when supporters were banned from attending matches. There is a very well researched documentary on YouTube ‘Gate Money - Inside Non-League Football Funding Fiasco’, it’s well worth a look. The film charts the journey of National League clubs during the pandemic and how the £10million grant from the National Lottery was distributed but, not as promised, based on gate receipts. There are many questions left unanswered, mostly by NL board members who refused to co-operate. But the biggest question is why did the board not follow the government’s allocation criteria? Watch the film and see what you think. ******* CHRISTMAS QUIZ 2022 ANSWERS 1. Stephen Duke-McKenna joined from QPR 2. Armani Little and Ben Wynter were selected for England ‘C’ 3. United manager who died in March was Frank O’Farrell 4. Torquay United Women won the Devon Cup Final 5. Under-18 manager was Chris Todd 6. Player of the season 2021-2022 was Shaun MacDonald 7. Will Goodwin joined from Stoke City 8. Head of Youth Robbie Herrera 9. England winning the Women’s Euro Final 10. Mark Ellis came on loan from Barrow 11. The three United goalscorers were Dylan Crowe, Aaron Jarvis, Will Goodwin 12. TUST launched VIP Children’s treats There was one lucky winner, congratulations to Jules Head of Newton Abbot who wins the £20 Torquay United club shop gift voucher; it’ll be on its way in the post next week. ****** United are at home this Saturday with FC Halifax the visitors to Plainmoor and this is yet another vital match with the Gulls desperate for a home win. What are your predictions for Torquay in 2023? Send yours to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Jan 15, 2023 8:59:09 GMT
13th January 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. UNITED WEATHER THE STORM FOR A RARE HOME WIN JANUARY IS THE MONTH FOR WHEELING AND DEALING WOMEN’S SIDE HIT SEVEN At long last Torquay United’s die-hards, all 1,975 of them, braved an afternoon of weather almost of biblical proportions to witness just the second home win of the season. At one stage, just before half-time, the rain was so torrential we almost expected to see a plague of frogs flying across the pitch. It was so heavy that not only were the players totally drenched that it must have gone through the referee’s mind to start the interval early. But credit to not only the ground staff for getting the match on in the first place but also to the club for the time and money spent on the pitch over the last couple of years. For certain in years gone by this fixture would have been called off long before Saturday. And, of course all the effort was rewarded with a victory which, whilst being long overdue, was deserved as some of the players under fire for under-par performances came good. It is clearly obvious to all us fans that the experience of Asa Hall and Tom Lapslie is a key component of United’s play. When these two are in the side there’s always a chance. Not only did he score the vital goal but also captain fantastic Asa Hall was picked for the Vanarama Team of the Week. Dean Moxey was selected for the Non-League Paper’s Team of the Day. ****** Last week’s column highlighted Shaun Donnellan’s contribution to the team and if there were a ‘Most Improved Player Award’ given now it would be to him. One win doesn’t turn the season around but it’s a start and hopefully will be built upon. Whilst most supporters are sorry to see Will Goodwin return to Stoke, subsequently he’s moved on to Cheltenham Town for a fee, and to a lesser extent Stephen Wearne to Grimsby, their departures are countered by the arrivals of Ricky Aguiar from Swindon and James Crole from Cardiff. While a centre-back, Nico Lawrence, is joining on loan from Southampton, that probably leaves another striker. It is clear that January is going to be a busy month for comings and goings. To counter the new signings Corie Andrews, after a disappointing time at Plainmoor, has left for a fee to join Wealdstone. And maybe there will be more departures. ******* Coming up is the visit of Bromley next Tuesday but before then is the much-anticipated arrival of Somerset rivals Taunton Town in the FA Trophy 4th Round on Saturday. Taunton are a useful side under manager Rob Dray and they have made a solid start to life in National South with one of the meanest defences, having conceded only 17 goals although they had a long, long trip to Dover on Tuesday going down 1-0 and missing a penalty. That’s a long way to travel for part-time players. United will need to be on their game to avoid a cup shock. ******* Three cheers for the three National League sides left in the FA Cup. Pride of place goes to Wrexham for their 4-3 win at Coventry while the other two face replays, Chesterfield at West Brom and Boreham Wood at Accrington. ******* Non-League Crowd Watch: Chesterfield pulled in 9,819 for their 3-3 draw with West Brom while Wrexham’s away support swelled Coventry’s gate to 18,218. Macclesfield in the Northern Premier Western Division continue to impress, on Saturday 4, 313 saw them defeat Leek Town 4-0, taking their season average to 3,475. In the National League Southend were watched by 5,705 and in National South Dulwich had 3,001. ****** In other National League news manager Andy Hessenthaler parted company with Dover Athletic after four years in charge in order to take up a Head of Recruitment role at Gillingham. The two co-owners of Gloucester City have put the club up for sale and within days the Chairman of Hungerford Town has started discussions to take over. Then late on Monday fellow strugglers Maidstone United sacked manager Hakan Hayrettin as the Stones lost their sixth consecutive match. Southend United facing an annual funding gap of around £2million have a High Court winding-up hearing on January 18. However, they are confident this will be dismissed as in the short-term they intend to take out a bridging loan. The club, though, are still looking to build a new ground at Fossetts Farm. ******* Sunday saw Torquay United Women return to action for their first league game of 2023 with a thumping 7-0 home win over Ilminster Town. And there were seven different players on the scoresheet: Ellie Bishop, Connie Pengelly, Becky McMullen, Daisy Self, Tracey Cross, Sasha Mole and Danni Wyatt. Prior to the match manager Steve Elswood announced a new signing, Natalie Warman who previously played for Buckland, Exeter City and Ilminster. Not to be outdone the club’s Under-18s got their New Year off to a great start with a 4-0 home win over BRS Coaching. ******** Oh for some prolific scoring from the men’s side but as we all know strikers who live up to the name are hard to find and cost money when they do. The leading scorers from Steps 1-3 are: Macaulay Langstaff (Notts County) 50, Shaun Jeffers (St. Albans) 46 and Paul Mullin (Wrexham) 45. ******** The majority answering last week’s question would wish for United to avoid relegation and as Johnson has hinted, fifth from bottom at the finish if necessary. Let’s hope it’s clearer cut than that. There were a number of FA Cup upsets over the weekend so does the magic of the Cup still stand for you? Send your views to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet There’s another seven days of football action to look forward to, first on Saturday the visit of Taunton and then next Tuesday Bromley are at Plainmoor for a 7.45pm kick-off. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Jan 21, 2023 17:33:16 GMT
20th January 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's new Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. UNITED’S TROPHY SUCCESS AS MORE SIGNINGS ARE NAMED EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH TORQUAY’S WOMEN’S MANAGER The previous Saturday’s match against FC Halifax was only on thanks to the valiant efforts of the Torquay United ground staff but during the match, as those who were there will testify, the pitch experienced extreme bouts of heavy rain. So, when the Met Office sent out amber weather warnings for overnight Friday into Saturday, it came as no surprise that last Saturday’s FA Trophy match against Somerset neighbours up the M5, Taunton Town, was called off. United came through the re-arranged match on a bitterly cold Tuesday night thanks to a red card to reduce the visitors to ten for the whole of the second half. Up to that point at 2-2 it was a competitive game. In the end two strikes from Aaron Jarvis, now top scorer, sent Torquay through to Round 5 and a home tie to Barnet on February 11, a week before Barnet return for a league fixture. ******* As predicted United have been busy wheeling and dealing players in and out of Plainmoor. No sooner had we learnt of Corie Andrews moving on to Wealdstone that news came through of the arrival of promising defender Nico Lawrence from Southampton. Interestingly, Tim Sills, ex-Gull and now manager of Wimborne Town, tweeted of our new loanee, “ Played against this lad (Lawrence) last year. Very good player and got all the attributes needed. Potentially an excellent signing.” Praise indeed! I have it on good authority that owner Clarke Osborne remains fully committed to the club and everyone is doing everything in their powers to move up the table. To this end the club announced two further signings, as predicted another striker, Tope Fadahunsi on a month’s loan from Sutton while ex-Maidstone defender Jacob Mensah has signed to the end of the season, not a loan. ******* Elsewhere in the National League there are serious problems for Scunthorpe United on and off the pitch. During their home defeat to play-off contenders Woking, there was a pitch invasion mid-way in the second half as around 100 home fans demonstrated on the pitch about owner Peter Swann who has overseen the club’s relegation from the EFL and is now looking to sell up. Meanwhile, Saturday’s 2-0 defeat leaves them rock bottom. ******* Non-League Crowd Watch: with so many fixtures called off plus it being FA Trophy weekend when traditionally the early rounds tend to have low attendances, the highest was 2,825 at Scunthorpe while the best in the Trophy was 2,741 at Southend. Full credit, though, to the 2,144 travelling Green Army who made the long trek to Ipswich to follow Plymouth Argyle in their top-of-the-table clash. ******* Hereford FC are the latest side to become a member of the community-owned club family after supporters secured 50.1% ownership of the National North side. As part of a season-long fundraising effort fans raised £9,000 which enabled the supporters’ trust to buy the remaining shares needed to secure the 50.1% of the club. This latest sum is part of an amazing £289,000 amassed by the trust through a number of fundraising initiatives. Trust chairman Richard Tomkins said, “ Many supporters didn’t believe this could be done but through hard work we have.” ******** The FA released a number of key facts last week about the women’s game. They report that there has been ‘unprecedented growth’ in relation to participation and match attendance at all levels of the game. Crowds watching the Women’s Super League are up 227% while the Championship saw an 86% rise. England’s victory in the Euro Final in front of 87,000 at Wembley has also contributed to the increase in popularity of women’s football. At grassroots level the FA report that interest in women’s football is up 12% amongst girls aged 5 - 16. With their league fixture at Liskeard postponed on Sunday due to a waterlogged pitch, United’s women’s manager Steve Elswood spoke exclusively to Fans’ Zone. Elswood confirmed, “ The ongoing development in numbers in the female game is growing massively and that’s clear to see at the club this season.” “ Our women’s team achieved success at the end of last season and we are focused on achieving more silverware this season, gaining promotion to Tier 4 football.“ These are exciting times for the women’s game and Elswood took time to explain his vision at Torquay United, “ What comes next is key for me. There are two main factors needed to run together to capitalise on the love of the game by girls out there. It’s vital we develop young girls from age 8 to 16 and there is a great job being done by the Community Sports Trust.” He added, “ I’m so keen on this journey - once they have finished their under-16 season, they’re educated, well coached and understand the club before becoming part of the women’s team - so I’m working with Jamie McIness, the girls’ football manager at TUCST.” This policy should ensure there is a seamless platform that works hand-in-hand in the future starting with the 2023-24 season for girls at the club to enter, and be successful, in the next women’s side and beyond. What Elswood would like to see is that local colleges across the UK can work with their local football clubs in offering full-time educational platforms for girls to study a football programme as their male counterparts can do. Elswood concluded, “ There are lots of positives in the female game at the moment and it’s moving forward very fast. I can’t wait for the future of our girls and women’s teams at Plainmoor; we’re building something very special in female football.” ******* Last week we asked about your views on the FA Cup. Reader Graeme Cozens summed up the feelings of many, “ The FA Cup has a marvellous tradition - it can be a leveller, it offers hope and excitement, it provides us with wonderful memories and can help us achieve our dreams. It should be held in esteem and should be treasured.” Have you watched a women’s match? Send your answer to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet. Safe travel to those going to watch United on Saturday at Boreham Wood, another tough game. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Jan 28, 2023 9:03:56 GMT
27th January 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. TRAVEL FRUSTRATION FOR THE YELLOW ARMY LATE POSTPONEMENTS - WHAT’S TO BE DONE? BIG SIX PONTER AT PLAINMOOR ON SATURDAY Saturday’s inevitable postponements across the country, following a night of minus temperatures, decimated the majority of non-league fixtures, leaving only a handful being played. Matches being called off due to frozen grounds is nothing new but what upset many, including numerous Yellow Army stalwarts, was the timing of these decisions. Particularly irritating was Torquay’s match at Boreham Wood which, despite the home side publishing on Friday a message that the pitch was fine, the game was still on and there was no planned pitch inspection, found late that this wasn’t the case. That the referee called off the game 75 minutes before kick-off caused a lot of upset not to mention wasted travel and cost. Given the circumstances maybe Boreham Wood should offer free entry to Gulls’ fans for the re-arranged date. ******* Torquay were not the only side to suffer a late decision - spare a thought for Altrincham whose match at Yeovil was postponed at 1.30pm while Havant & Waterlooville in National South were assured the game was on before leaving on Saturday morning to Dover only to find it was off upon their arrival. And Ascot United were on the M5 before turning around as their FA Vase game at Buckland Athletic was called off mid-morning. A couple of other clubs had a lucky benefit from these postponements as a number of the Yellow Army went to watch Watford v Rotherham while Havant fans helped swell the gate at Folkestone to 902. All of us who travel to games have, over time, unfortunately suffered from late decisions. I recall driving from Berkshire, a 360 mile round trip, to Plainmoor for a home fixture with Mansfield Town and was in my seat in the Family Stand when a sea mist descended and it became impossible to see the away end, inevitably the match was off. ******* With United due to play Woking on Tuesday, with the signs of more minus temperatures, full credit to both clubs for moving the game to Wednesday with the likelihood of warmer weather. As we now know that game too was called off but before the team coach set off. So yet another fixture to be rearranged. ******* As predicted United fans have seen a flurry of activity in the transfer market as Gary Johnson shakes up his squad, bringing in a number of exciting prospects including another striker, Tope Fadahunsi on loan from Sutton United and experienced defender Jacob Mensah, recently released by Maidstone United. That’s five additions in the last month so credit to the owner for sanctioning them. With several games to be re-arranged, there are going to be matches Saturday - Tuesday - Saturday between now and the end of the season so a bigger squad will be important. ******* Only two National League matches were played on Saturday, both on 4G pitches, fellow strugglers Maidstone lost again as Wrexham snatched a late winner in front of 3,341 while Bromley were held at home by Aldershot with 2,764. ******* Two United sides did play over the weekend, the Under-18s kept on course to retain its South West Counties Youth League title with a comprehensive 3-0 home win over Mangostfield United. Isaac McCure, George Collins and Ben Aldous on the scoresheet. Then on Sunday Torquay’s Women’s side kept the pressure on at the top of the table as well as maintaining their 100% home record following a 2-1 win over Bishops Lydeard Ladies, goals from Daisy Self and Connie Pengelly. ******* One of Gary Johnson’s pet hates over recent seasons has been the amount of time wasting which takes place at all levels of the game - the ‘dark arts’ some call it. All teams are guilty, usually trying to protect a lead, but some are worse than others. In the World Cup it seemed as if officials had decided to act and many matches past the 100 minute mark as a result. Last week football’s rule makers met at Wembley to discuss this very topic with three possible solutions: enforce existing rules including goalkeepers not holding the ball for more than six seconds, second, follow the example set in the World Cup and thirdly, using a stop-clock as in Rugby Union. The IFAB meeting in the end decided to issue guidelines for next season along the lines of how World Cup matches were refereed. With ball-in-play time down to less than 56 per cent this seems another opportunity for proper change lost. The same committee also rejected trials on a temporary concussion substitutes in the Premier League. ******* Often one of the signs of a struggling side can be seen in their disciplinary record - the number of yellow and red cards accumulated. In a recent Fair Play Table, surprisingly ‘topping’ it are Bromley, followed closely by Torquay United. And suspensions towards the end of a season are never good news. After the Gulls the next bad boys are Eastleigh, Dorking Wanderers and Boreham Wood. ******* Alongside family and friends there are a number of fans who attend Torquay’s women’s matches with a number who turn up on an ad hoc basis. This week what are your views on matches being postponed? The day before? At least by 9am on the day? Send your opinion to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet. Tomorrow, there’s a really big six pointer at Plainmoor with Maidstone the visitors, following their eighth successive defeat on Tuesday, 0-3 to Aldershot. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Feb 11, 2023 10:08:09 GMT
10th February 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. WHISPER IT ARE THERE GREEN SHOOTS OF RECOVERY AT PLAINMOOR ? TROUBLE BREWING AT SOUTHEND AND AMBASSADOR DANNI FOR #HERGAMETOO It’s the time of the year that as you look around you see snowdrops and daffodils appearing as they spring into view and, although they lost to a Notts County side determined to make this the year of their EFL return, there are green shoots of recovery seen at Plainmoor. Those United fans amongst the 2,621 went home feeling that with more performances like this then the prospects of avoiding the drop are strong. The big disappointment, as Gary Johnson referred to in his post match interview, was his side’s lack of ideas in how to take advantage of the visitors going down to ten men. To be fair though, Notts County are the league’s form side having lost only one game in thirty while for Torquay this was their first home defeat since November 15. The owner, Clarke Osborne, through CEO George Edwards, is to be thanked for clearly supporting his manager’s request to strengthen the squad. There is now competition for places which is always important for teams to be successful, Lewis Collins on loan from Newport County being the newest addition. ****** Recent progress in the FA Trophy has brought much needed morale boosting home wins followed by two 1-0 successes over FC Halifax and Maidstone United with a battling draw at third placed Woking last week. So whisper it, Saturday’s defeat was only a blip in the Gulls moving up the table to catch first Oldham and then Dorking and with seventeen fixtures to go it’s all possible. Maybe the words of Notts County manager Luke Williams will resonate for the rest of the season, “This is a difficult place to come to, every team who comes here will know that they have been in a game.” Final word on Saturday’s game goes to referee Paul Johnson who was clearly trying to re-create the popular game show ‘Play Your Cards Right’ as he booked nine to take his total in seven National League matches to 37. ****** Crowd Watch: Big attendances once again in the National League: 7,459 at Oldham to see them lose 0-1, 5,737 at threatened Southend United (more later on this) and 5,110 as Scunthorpe lost at home on Friday night. Great credit to the Green Army as 3,700 Plymouth fans travelled to the top-of-the-table clash at Sheffield Wednesday where 33,442 were in Hillsborough. ****** The long-awaited and promised Fan-Led Review White Paper was due to be published on Wednesday but somehow the Manchester City financial bombshell has, according to Government sources, put the announcement back by a fortnight. Reports leaked to a couple of national newspapers last week indicate that included from the Review’s recommendations will be stronger tests on potential club owners, more supporter engagement, blocks on breakaway competitions like the European Super League and the establishment of an independent regulator. Following the release of the White Paper there will be a consultation process. TUST looks forward to following the developments. ****** Whilst Southend United continue to work on the pitch towards the play-offs, all is not well off it. The club faces a winding-up petition in the High Court soon, as it’s £1.4m in debt, the players have yet to be paid for January and the Supporters’ Trust are making plans for a phoenix club. Meanwhile, Scunthorpe United were taken over last week by former chairman of Ilkeston Town David Hilton. They immediately celebrated with a 1-0 win at FC Halifax, their first away win in over a year. Hilton said, “I’m pleased to say the take-over has now been completed and the deal includes the football club, stadium and surrounding land.” He now has to settle the winding-up petition with HMRC as the transfer embargo, that had ben imposed, has been lifted. Not only that but installing Jimmy Dean as manager from Peterborough Sports. ****** Fans of clubs like Torquay United can only sit with open mouths looking at the mouth-watering, astronomical sums Premier League clubs paid for new players in the now closed January transfer window, notably Chelsea. One of the recommendations of the Fan-Led Review is to see a fairer distribution of the massive wealth of the Premier League down through the divisions and into grass-roots football. Just to be clear National League clubs can still continue to sign players until towards the end of March, including from the Premier League and EFL. This year it should be by around March 24. Gary Johnson has hinted that, with the directors’ blessing, he could still bring in more players. ****** United’s Under-18s continue to impress and on Saturday cruised into the league cup semi-finals after a comfortable 5-2 win over Bridgwater with George Collins (2), Ben Aldous (2) and Jack Kennell on the score-sheet. It’s been a busy time for Torquay United’s Women’s player Danni Wyatt. First, she was promoted to assistant manager. She’ll continue to play and support manager Steve Elswood over the crucial final stages of the season. Danni said, “I’m over the moon to be appointed within the management structure. I think it’s a role I can naturally transition into to help Steve manage the club.’ Now she has been appointed a club ambassador for #HerGameToo, a new partnership announced by the club with the Torquay United Community Sports Trust. The Women’s side recorded a comfortable 2-0 win on Sunday at Ilminster Town Ladies to keep up their title challenge. Goals from Connie Pengelly and Daisy Self in each half secured the victory. The only disappointment is the news that top scorer Ellie Bishop is moving on to Bridgwater, who play two divisions higher. ****** United now have two games coming up with Barnet on successive Saturdays, starting with this Saturday’s FA Trophy game. Which is more important, league survival or FA Trophy success or both? Send your view to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet Apologies for no column last week as I had a spell in hospital; many thanks for the kind get well wishes. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Feb 18, 2023 8:45:56 GMT
17th February 2023 FAN ZONE TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. UNITED BUZZED OUT OF THE FA TROPHY AND THE BEES RETURN ON SATURDAY PLUS NEWS FROM AROUND THE NATIONAL LEAGUE No more trophy hunting for Torquay United this season as the Bees stung the Gulls in a disappointing 2-1 home defeat. As United had done the previous Saturday in another 2-1 defeat, they gave it a good go but lacked the quality in the final third. These are frustrating times to be a United supporter as the team had appeared to turn a corner with some improved performances. They were, though, undone on Saturday as Barnet’s on loan striker from Leyton Orient, Harry Smith, provided two crisp finishes with headers as he used his 6ft 4in height to dominate the home side’s penalty area. With Barnet returning this Saturday for a National League fixture, United are going to have to work hard on the training ground to come up with a plan to stop the visitors - without ex-United favourite Ben Wynter, out injured. Maybe one hope is that, despite leading for a large part of the game, Barnet suffered a 4-1 defeat at league leaders Notts County on Tuesday. ****** We are now at the stage of the season where every point is crucial and if Torquay are to get out of the bottom four then only wins will be enough. With new striker Lewis Collins likely to be out with concussion, is it conceivable Johnson will move to bring in somebody else? Of teams down at the bottom Oldham have found some form while Dorking are looking likely candidates to drop into the relegation zone. Whatever happens it’s looking as if it’s going to be a close run thing for whoever ends up being relegated. Meanwhile, at the top it looks like developing into a real race for the one automatic promotion place between Notts County, yet another win at Chesterfield on Saturday night, and Wrexham. Their match-up in April could be crucial. Luke Young, skipper at Wrexham, keeps pulling the strings in mid-field while Kyle Cameron, captain of Notts County, and Aaron Nemane are proving to be influential in the Notts’s side. If only we had some of their talents at Plainmoor now. ****** Considering it was, what a lot of fans call the FA Trophy, a meaningless competition 1,459 attendance was a good effort. They were there to witness another referee, Scott Jackson, who like last week’s decided to flash his cards, another nine bookings, six for Barnet including their assistant manager. Surely something is wrong when there have been eighteen bookings in two matches. The standard of refereeing needs urgent attention. ****** Last week it looked nailed on that the Government’s Fan-Led Review White Paper was to be published; the Prime Minister was all geared up to appear at AFC Wimbledon to promote its publication but then came other events which combined to postpone the announcement. First there was the Manchester City financial bombshell, then the Cabinet reshuffle which involved a new Minister for Sport and then the arrival of Ukraine’s President in England. ****** Non-League Crowd Watch: Wrexham pulled in 10,091 as they push for top spot while the Chesterfield v. Notts County clash was watched by 9,706. There’s a fascinating race for the title in the Southern League Premier South between current leaders Weston-Super-Mare, two points ahead of Truro City, both 1-0 winners on Saturday and Weston have played a game less. Who knows, one of them could be visiting Plainmoor next season. Interesting to see that Bath City have put in a planning application to change their pitch at Twerton Park into a 3G one. “It is part of the club’s longstanding strategy to make the club a sustainable business at the heart of our community.” ****** Further developments at cash crisis club Southend United who, with debts of £1.4m, face a winding-up petition in the High Court on March 1. The club’s owner and chairman Ron Martin has come out to say that the future for the club is bright. He maintained over the weekend that funds will be available but conceded, “It will be close.” This is not the first time the club has been in this situation and the supporters’ trust, the Shrimpers Trust, are in the wings planning for a phoenix club. The players still haven’t ben paid for January. ****** Torquay United’s Women’s side were held to a 2-2 draw on Sunday by Liskeard Ladies maintaining their unbeaten home record. Goals from the ever reliable Connie Pengelly and a penalty by Tee Kaptein gave the girls a share of the points. In the race for the title Forest Green remain top, three points ahead of United, but having played three games more. Also in the mix are Bristol Rovers who United play away on Sunday. Torquay’s Under-18s came from a goal down at half-time to visitors Yeovil Town but second half substitute Ben Aldous came on to score a memorable hat-trick to win the game 3-1. ****** Last week’s question divided opinion, there were a number who hoped that the team could progress through the rounds in the FA Trophy for a day out at Wembley but more went for three points this Saturday as being vital. Of course with the tie now lost it’s all academic and the importance is on winning the league fixture on Saturday. After Saturday’s match there’s a big, big game at Dorking on Tuesday evening and a key fixture in United’s survival hopes. 50 points is usually the benchmark for staying up, that’s another twenty-four needed. Can United do it? What’s your view? Send yours to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet If you can, get down to Plainmoor on Saturday. COYY JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.ukSUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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