Four league games into the season and the four South West league sides have enjoyed varying degrees of success thus far.
In League Two, Torquay United remain the only team in the Npower Football League with a 100% record as they recorded their fourth straight league win with a 2-1 victory over Port Vale on Saturday. The game also saw their run without conceding a league goal when Anthony Griffith struck for Port Vale on 37 minutes, the Gulls run without conceding stood at 998 minutes.
However, a football season is a marathon not a sprint and Paul Buckle will be wary of that fact. He will also be facing an anxious wait at the end of the transfer window to see if any club makes an 11th hour bid for any of his prize assets.
Bucks has already revealed that he has turned down a bid from a League One side for defender Mark Ellis, but he has also stated that he is not currently under any pressure to sell. So if there are any departures from Plainmoor, it is more than likely to be an offer which is too good for him, and the Torquay board, to refuse.
In League One, Yeovil Town are currently the highest placed of the division's three South West sides in 16th place. The Glovers recently ended a run of three straight defeats in all competitions with a goalless draw with Oldham Athletic and manager Terry Skiverton will be hoping that this will lead to an improvement in form for Yeovil.
Skivo has once again dipped into the loan market to re-sign Owain Tudur Jones and Shaun MacDonald on loan from Norwich City and Swansea City respectively. For MacDonald, this marks his third loan spell at Huish Park and he will be looking to continue the excellent understanding he developed in the centre of the Glovers midfield last season with Jean Paul Kalala.
Currently lying one place below Yeovil in 17th place are Plymouth Argyle. Pilgrims manager Peter Reid has stated that he wishes to sign two strikers before the summer Transfer Window closes. However, on the evidence of their 3-0 defeat at home to Peterborough United the suggestions are that a bigger overhaul may be required.
Exeter City were also condemned to a 3-0 defeat at the weekend at the hands of Leyton Orient which leaves the Grecians in the League One relegation zone. Manager Paul Tisdale will also face a nervous wait this week in the event of a late bid for cultured midfielder Ryan Harley before the close of the Transfer Window.
Monday 30 August 2010
Thursday 26 August 2010
TALKING YEOVIL#2
Last season, Terry Skiverton proved himself to be a very astute investor in the loan market as he guided Yeovil to 15th place in League One.
This year, a number of that crop have now moved onto pastures new and a few of them are currently plying their trade with Championship sides.
Ryan Mason and Jon Obika, who both joined the Glovers on loan from Spurs in the 2009-10 campaign, have been snapped up by Doncaster Rovers and Crystal Palace on a temporary basis as they continue their footballing education.
Defender Steven Caulker, who almost swept the board at Yeovil's Player of the Year awards presentation, had been heavily linked with on loan move to Leeds United, whom the Glovers faced in League One last season. However, the move hasn't gone ahead as yet and with on going concerns over the fitness of Jonathan Woodgate, Caulker may get a taste of action at White Hart Lane sooner than he perhaps would have expected to.
Meanwhile, England Under-21 goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has joined Brentford on a temporary basis.
Of this years' loan crop, Arsenal starlet Luke Freeman marked his Yeovil debut on the opening day of the season with the decisive goal in their 2-1 win over Leyton Orient on the opening day of the current campaign. Watford starlet Rob Kiernan has called up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad following his arrival at Huish Park and he will be looking to get more games under his belt.
Surprisingly Shaun MacDonald, who enjoyed a hugely successful second loan spell at Huish Park last season (his first stint came in the 2008-09 campaign), has mainly been playing reserve team football for Swansea so far this season. The Wales Under-21 cap record holder became a key figure for the Glovers last term and is approaching an age when playing first team football would be vital to his development as a player.
With a lack of experience in the centre of park for the Glovers, with the exception of Jean Paul Kalala, the signs suggest that a third loan spell for the Welshman at Yeovil would make sense for both player and club.
Next week, the Glovers faithful will get a final chance to say farewell to former striker Adam Stansfield, who tragically lost his battle with bowel cancer, when they play Exeter City in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. Emotions are likely to be high due to the fact when the two sides last played each other in January, Stansfield was on the scoresheet for the Grecians as the game ended 2-1 to the Glovers.
This year, a number of that crop have now moved onto pastures new and a few of them are currently plying their trade with Championship sides.
Ryan Mason and Jon Obika, who both joined the Glovers on loan from Spurs in the 2009-10 campaign, have been snapped up by Doncaster Rovers and Crystal Palace on a temporary basis as they continue their footballing education.
Defender Steven Caulker, who almost swept the board at Yeovil's Player of the Year awards presentation, had been heavily linked with on loan move to Leeds United, whom the Glovers faced in League One last season. However, the move hasn't gone ahead as yet and with on going concerns over the fitness of Jonathan Woodgate, Caulker may get a taste of action at White Hart Lane sooner than he perhaps would have expected to.
Meanwhile, England Under-21 goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has joined Brentford on a temporary basis.
Of this years' loan crop, Arsenal starlet Luke Freeman marked his Yeovil debut on the opening day of the season with the decisive goal in their 2-1 win over Leyton Orient on the opening day of the current campaign. Watford starlet Rob Kiernan has called up to the Republic of Ireland Under-21 squad following his arrival at Huish Park and he will be looking to get more games under his belt.
Surprisingly Shaun MacDonald, who enjoyed a hugely successful second loan spell at Huish Park last season (his first stint came in the 2008-09 campaign), has mainly been playing reserve team football for Swansea so far this season. The Wales Under-21 cap record holder became a key figure for the Glovers last term and is approaching an age when playing first team football would be vital to his development as a player.
With a lack of experience in the centre of park for the Glovers, with the exception of Jean Paul Kalala, the signs suggest that a third loan spell for the Welshman at Yeovil would make sense for both player and club.
Next week, the Glovers faithful will get a final chance to say farewell to former striker Adam Stansfield, who tragically lost his battle with bowel cancer, when they play Exeter City in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy. Emotions are likely to be high due to the fact when the two sides last played each other in January, Stansfield was on the scoresheet for the Grecians as the game ended 2-1 to the Glovers.
Tuesday 24 August 2010
TALKING TORQUAY #2
With the number of minutes they have gone without conceding in the Football League currently standing at 961 minutes and enjoying a perfect start to the 2010-11 Npower League Two campaign, life is pretty good for Torquay United at the moment.
It is a far cry from the club that Buckle inherited when he was first appointed as manager in 2007, which was shortly after the Gulls had been relegated from the Football League and had only three players under contract.
Whilst the squad that he has assembled is not the biggest in League Two, what it lacks in quantity in makes up for quality in a number of areas.
For example, for the club's first competitive reserve game against Swansea City on August 12th only the absence of Martin Gritton through injury prevented the Gulls from naming a team comprising entirely of senior pros.
The subs bench for their last home match against included Gritton, highly rated Northern Irish prospect Eunan O'Kane, defender Kieran Charnock and the vastly experienced Wayne Carlisle. These are players who could probably get a game at most sides in League Two, but currently find themselves on the fringes of the Torquay starting eleven.
This illustrates the current level of ambition at Torquay, as do two other recent happenings off the field at Plainmoor.
Firstly, Paul Buckle spent one day last week watching Manchester United train at the invitation of Sir Alex Ferguson.
On the day itself, Sir Alex was attending a funeral so Buckle was instead shown around by his assistant Mike Phelan and came away impressed by the attitude and professionalism of the club and the Red Devils players.
Secondly, during the same week Buckle has revealed that he turned down a bid from an unnamed League One club for his young central defender Mark Ellis who has been a cornerstone of the Gulls defence that has kept their impressive clean sheet record going since the end of last season.
Though Buckle is not under pressure to sell any of his prized assets, he may well find that he maybe required to turn away more interested suitors if they continue their impressive start to the season.
It is a far cry from the club that Buckle inherited when he was first appointed as manager in 2007, which was shortly after the Gulls had been relegated from the Football League and had only three players under contract.
Whilst the squad that he has assembled is not the biggest in League Two, what it lacks in quantity in makes up for quality in a number of areas.
For example, for the club's first competitive reserve game against Swansea City on August 12th only the absence of Martin Gritton through injury prevented the Gulls from naming a team comprising entirely of senior pros.
The subs bench for their last home match against included Gritton, highly rated Northern Irish prospect Eunan O'Kane, defender Kieran Charnock and the vastly experienced Wayne Carlisle. These are players who could probably get a game at most sides in League Two, but currently find themselves on the fringes of the Torquay starting eleven.
This illustrates the current level of ambition at Torquay, as do two other recent happenings off the field at Plainmoor.
Firstly, Paul Buckle spent one day last week watching Manchester United train at the invitation of Sir Alex Ferguson.
On the day itself, Sir Alex was attending a funeral so Buckle was instead shown around by his assistant Mike Phelan and came away impressed by the attitude and professionalism of the club and the Red Devils players.
Secondly, during the same week Buckle has revealed that he turned down a bid from an unnamed League One club for his young central defender Mark Ellis who has been a cornerstone of the Gulls defence that has kept their impressive clean sheet record going since the end of last season.
Though Buckle is not under pressure to sell any of his prized assets, he may well find that he maybe required to turn away more interested suitors if they continue their impressive start to the season.
Sunday 22 August 2010
TORQUAY MAKE IT A PERFECT 10
Torquay United extended their unbeaten run to ten matches and maintained their 100% start to the season with a 2-0 win over Bradford City at Plainmoor. Danny Stevens and Chris Zebroski were on target for the Gulls who are now only one of two sides in the Football League with perfect starts to the 2010-11 campaign, the other one being Neil Warnock's QPR.
The progress of the Gulls under Paul Buckle is now being noted from afar as the club's official website today revealed that last week Buckle turned down a bid from an unnamed League One club for young central defender Mark Ellis.
Elsewhere in the South West, Plymouth Argyle remain a work in progress under Peter Reid after they lost 2-1 to Walsall at the Bescot Stadium. Teenage starlet Joe Mason gave the Pilgrims the lead before the Saddlers struck back with goals from Paul Marshall and former Argyle striker Reuben Reid.
Exeter City's first game following the untimely death of Adam Stansfield ended with a 2-2 draw against Bristol Rovers. Daniel Nardiello and John O'Flynn scored for the Grecians in response to goals for the Pirates from Jo Kuffour and Will Hoskins. Before kick-off, the 7,401 crowd at St James Park observed a minute's applause for Stansfield.
At Huish Park, Yeovil Town were beaten 2-0 by Hartlepool United. Goals from Gary Liddle and Andy Monkhouse condemned the Glovers to a defeat that manager Terry Skiverton described as 'a one off.'
The progress of the Gulls under Paul Buckle is now being noted from afar as the club's official website today revealed that last week Buckle turned down a bid from an unnamed League One club for young central defender Mark Ellis.
Elsewhere in the South West, Plymouth Argyle remain a work in progress under Peter Reid after they lost 2-1 to Walsall at the Bescot Stadium. Teenage starlet Joe Mason gave the Pilgrims the lead before the Saddlers struck back with goals from Paul Marshall and former Argyle striker Reuben Reid.
Exeter City's first game following the untimely death of Adam Stansfield ended with a 2-2 draw against Bristol Rovers. Daniel Nardiello and John O'Flynn scored for the Grecians in response to goals for the Pirates from Jo Kuffour and Will Hoskins. Before kick-off, the 7,401 crowd at St James Park observed a minute's applause for Stansfield.
At Huish Park, Yeovil Town were beaten 2-0 by Hartlepool United. Goals from Gary Liddle and Andy Monkhouse condemned the Glovers to a defeat that manager Terry Skiverton described as 'a one off.'
Friday 20 August 2010
TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS PETER TAYLOR
For over a decade, the paths of Torquay United and Peter Taylor have crossed on a number of occasions.
Tomorrow's clash with Bradford City will be the ninth time that the Gulls have faced the former England Caretaker manager, who first handed David Beckham the England captaincy in 2000, since the 1999-00 season when Torquay faced Gillingham, who were then managed by Taylor, in the Auto Windscreens Shield.
The Gulls came out on top, winning 3-0 with a brace from Michael Griffiths and a further goal from Kevin Hill.
Torquay then faced Hull City six times during Taylor's reign in charge of the Tigers and on one further occasion when Taylor was in charge of Stevenage.
The full results table reads like this.
1999-00 vs Gillingham a (AWS) W 3-0 Michael Griffiths (20, Kevin Hill
2002-03 vs Hull City h (Div 3) L l-4 Kevin Hill
2002-03 vs Hull City a (Div 3) D 1-1 Kevin Hill
2003-04 vs Hull City h (Div 3) D 1-1 David Graham
2003-04 vs Hull City a (Div 3) W 1-0 Martin Gritton
2004-05 vs Hull City h (CCL1) L 0-3
2004-05 vs Hull City a (CCL1) L 0-2
2007-08 vs Stevenage a (BSP) W 3-1 Chris Hargreaves, Chris Zebroski, Tim Sills
(AWS) = Auto Windscreens Shield, (Div 3) = Nationwide Division Three, (CCL1)= Coca-Cola League One, (BSP)= Blue Square Premier
So that leaves a record of played 8, won 3, drawn 2 and lost 3 for the Gulls.
Tomorrow's clash with Bradford City will be the ninth time that the Gulls have faced the former England Caretaker manager, who first handed David Beckham the England captaincy in 2000, since the 1999-00 season when Torquay faced Gillingham, who were then managed by Taylor, in the Auto Windscreens Shield.
The Gulls came out on top, winning 3-0 with a brace from Michael Griffiths and a further goal from Kevin Hill.
Torquay then faced Hull City six times during Taylor's reign in charge of the Tigers and on one further occasion when Taylor was in charge of Stevenage.
The full results table reads like this.
1999-00 vs Gillingham a (AWS) W 3-0 Michael Griffiths (20, Kevin Hill
2002-03 vs Hull City h (Div 3) L l-4 Kevin Hill
2002-03 vs Hull City a (Div 3) D 1-1 Kevin Hill
2003-04 vs Hull City h (Div 3) D 1-1 David Graham
2003-04 vs Hull City a (Div 3) W 1-0 Martin Gritton
2004-05 vs Hull City h (CCL1) L 0-3
2004-05 vs Hull City a (CCL1) L 0-2
2007-08 vs Stevenage a (BSP) W 3-1 Chris Hargreaves, Chris Zebroski, Tim Sills
(AWS) = Auto Windscreens Shield, (Div 3) = Nationwide Division Three, (CCL1)= Coca-Cola League One, (BSP)= Blue Square Premier
So that leaves a record of played 8, won 3, drawn 2 and lost 3 for the Gulls.
Wednesday 18 August 2010
TALKING YEOVIL#1
The untimely death of Adam Stansfield has touched followers of the Glovers who have fond memories of the striker who arrived at Huish Park from Western League side Elmore in 2001.
His debut season with Yeovil proved to be a memorable one as he scored in their FA Trophy final victory and picked up the man-of-the-match award in the process. He also played a major role in helping the Glovers win promotion to the Football League in the 2002-03 campaign. Unfortunately for Adam, a broken leg sustained during a pre-season friendly against Dorchester Town on the eve of the 2003-04 season prevented him from making more of an impact in Yeovil's debut league season.
Such was the regard that he held the Glovers faithful when he scored on his return to Huish Park with Exeter last January, he refused to celebrate scoring against his former club.
His former captain and current Glovers boss Terry Skiverton paid tribute to his former team-mate following their last gasp defeat at the hands of Bristol Rovers last Saturday and stated that he would have appreciated the spirit and passion that Yeovil showed during the match.
That level of spirit will stand the Glovers in good stead for the remainder of the current campaign and they will be looking to get back to winning ways on Saturday at home to Hartlepool United.
Last season, Skiverton's men made Huish Park a difficult place to come to and many of the more fancied teams either only snatched narrow wins or escaped with late draws on visiting South Somerset. The greatest example of this is the fact that it took a last minute equaliser from Gary Doherty to secure a 3-3 draw for eventual champions Norwich City.
A win against Hartlepool will leave the Glovers with a home record of played two, won two. A record that Adam Stansfield would have been pleased with.
His debut season with Yeovil proved to be a memorable one as he scored in their FA Trophy final victory and picked up the man-of-the-match award in the process. He also played a major role in helping the Glovers win promotion to the Football League in the 2002-03 campaign. Unfortunately for Adam, a broken leg sustained during a pre-season friendly against Dorchester Town on the eve of the 2003-04 season prevented him from making more of an impact in Yeovil's debut league season.
Such was the regard that he held the Glovers faithful when he scored on his return to Huish Park with Exeter last January, he refused to celebrate scoring against his former club.
His former captain and current Glovers boss Terry Skiverton paid tribute to his former team-mate following their last gasp defeat at the hands of Bristol Rovers last Saturday and stated that he would have appreciated the spirit and passion that Yeovil showed during the match.
That level of spirit will stand the Glovers in good stead for the remainder of the current campaign and they will be looking to get back to winning ways on Saturday at home to Hartlepool United.
Last season, Skiverton's men made Huish Park a difficult place to come to and many of the more fancied teams either only snatched narrow wins or escaped with late draws on visiting South Somerset. The greatest example of this is the fact that it took a last minute equaliser from Gary Doherty to secure a 3-3 draw for eventual champions Norwich City.
A win against Hartlepool will leave the Glovers with a home record of played two, won two. A record that Adam Stansfield would have been pleased with.
Monday 16 August 2010
TALKING TORQUAY# 1
Two games into the new season and Torquay United are sitting pretty at the top of the Npower League Two table without conceding any goals.
Whilst many followers of the Gulls will be pleased with that statistic, incidentally they are now the eighth side to go nine or more games without conceding a league goal, what is perhaps more pleasing is that Elliot Benyon is currently topping the League Two scoring charts with three goals in two games.
The last two Torquay sides to win promotion from this Division, in 1990-91 and 2003-04, both featured a prolific strike pairing who scored over 30 goals between them.
In the 1990-91 campaign, which ended with a Play-Off victory over Blackpool, Tommy Tynan and Dean Edwards bagged 19 goals apiece.
Flash forward thirteen years and Torquay won automatic promotion for the first time in 38 years, finishing third in Division Three as it was then known. Once again, the Gulls side featured a strike partnership that the majority of defences in the league found difficult to deal with. David Graham found the back of the net 23 times in all competitions, whilst Jo Kuffour scored ten as Torquay pipped Huddersfield Town to the final automatic promotion spot.
So if Benyon can continue his good form during the course of the season and the other members of the Gulls striking roster, which currently includes Billy Kee, Martin Gritton and Chris Zebroski can chip with a few goals themselves, Torquay United will certainly be a force to be reckoned with.
Whilst many followers of the Gulls will be pleased with that statistic, incidentally they are now the eighth side to go nine or more games without conceding a league goal, what is perhaps more pleasing is that Elliot Benyon is currently topping the League Two scoring charts with three goals in two games.
The last two Torquay sides to win promotion from this Division, in 1990-91 and 2003-04, both featured a prolific strike pairing who scored over 30 goals between them.
In the 1990-91 campaign, which ended with a Play-Off victory over Blackpool, Tommy Tynan and Dean Edwards bagged 19 goals apiece.
Flash forward thirteen years and Torquay won automatic promotion for the first time in 38 years, finishing third in Division Three as it was then known. Once again, the Gulls side featured a strike partnership that the majority of defences in the league found difficult to deal with. David Graham found the back of the net 23 times in all competitions, whilst Jo Kuffour scored ten as Torquay pipped Huddersfield Town to the final automatic promotion spot.
So if Benyon can continue his good form during the course of the season and the other members of the Gulls striking roster, which currently includes Billy Kee, Martin Gritton and Chris Zebroski can chip with a few goals themselves, Torquay United will certainly be a force to be reckoned with.
Sunday 15 August 2010
JOHNSTONE'S PAINT TROPHY DRAW NEWS
In the first round of this season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy, Exeter City will travel to Huish Park to face Yeovil Town in what will be the first encounter between the two sides following the passing of Adam Stansfield.
There is one factor which will give the meeting between the two sides extra poignancy. Aside from the fact that Stansfield served both clubs with great distinction, when the two sides faced in each other last January, Stansfield was on the scoresheet for the Grecians as the Glovers ran out 2-1 winners.
Torquay United will also be on their travels as they have been paired with AFC Bournemouth.
Plymouth Argyle have received a by and will enter the competition in the next stage.
There is one factor which will give the meeting between the two sides extra poignancy. Aside from the fact that Stansfield served both clubs with great distinction, when the two sides faced in each other last January, Stansfield was on the scoresheet for the Grecians as the Glovers ran out 2-1 winners.
Torquay United will also be on their travels as they have been paired with AFC Bournemouth.
Plymouth Argyle have received a by and will enter the competition in the next stage.
ROUND-UP OF OTHER RESULTS # WEEK 2
Torquay United continued their fine start to the 2010-11 campaign with a 2-0 away victory over Lincoln City at Sincil Bank. A goal in each half from Elliot Benyon made the difference for the Gulls who top the League Two table on goals difference ahead of Shrewsbury Town, the only other team with a 100% record in the division.
In the Westcountry derby at the Memorial Stadium, Bristol Rovers came out on top with a 2-1 victory over Yeovil Town. Ex Torquay striker Jo Kuffour struck for the Pirates on the stroke of half-time before Adam Virgo equalised for the Glovers on 89 minutes. It looks as though Terry Skiverton's side had done enough to secure a point before Rovers defender Byron Anthony popped to snatch a late winner in injury time.
Following the untimely death of Adam Stansfield this week, Exeter City's trip to Dagenham and Redbridge in League One was postponed.
In the Westcountry derby at the Memorial Stadium, Bristol Rovers came out on top with a 2-1 victory over Yeovil Town. Ex Torquay striker Jo Kuffour struck for the Pirates on the stroke of half-time before Adam Virgo equalised for the Glovers on 89 minutes. It looks as though Terry Skiverton's side had done enough to secure a point before Rovers defender Byron Anthony popped to snatch a late winner in injury time.
Following the untimely death of Adam Stansfield this week, Exeter City's trip to Dagenham and Redbridge in League One was postponed.
ARGYLE STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS UNDER REID
Plymouth Argyle still remain very much as work in progress under the reign of Peter Reid after drawing 1-1 against Carlisle United in his first home league game in charge at Home Park.
The former Everton and England midfielder praised the resilience of his side after they snatched an injury time equaliser against Carlisle United, but believes there is more to come from the Pilgrims.
As the fourth official put his board up for extra time, Argyle were trailing 1-0 to an 68th minute header from Ian Harte. But, with virtually the last kick of the game, Argyle’s Northern Ireland striker Rory Patterson scored an opportunists strike to clinch a late point.
He said: “We kept on going and hopefully it is a sign of the times because we can work on it. We have to relax on the pitch.”
“In training, we like to get it down and pass it but for some reason on an excellent pitch we find it difficult. I don’t know whether it is because of pressure, but they have got to handle it. The crowd are right behind the team and they are fantastic, but the players have got to realise that.”
Once Rory (Patterson) came on he showed real desire, I might have started with him, but he only got back from Montenegro on Thursday night and he lost his bag so the lad has had a torrid time in getting back.
I love Joe Mason as a footballer, but I have to be careful with him. He gets in behind and he is a clever player. I had a hell of a lot of young players out there. If they are going to do it, I’ll play them. As I’ve said before that the players pick the team, so that will be the insight for next week.
The former Everton and England midfielder praised the resilience of his side after they snatched an injury time equaliser against Carlisle United, but believes there is more to come from the Pilgrims.
As the fourth official put his board up for extra time, Argyle were trailing 1-0 to an 68th minute header from Ian Harte. But, with virtually the last kick of the game, Argyle’s Northern Ireland striker Rory Patterson scored an opportunists strike to clinch a late point.
He said: “We kept on going and hopefully it is a sign of the times because we can work on it. We have to relax on the pitch.”
“In training, we like to get it down and pass it but for some reason on an excellent pitch we find it difficult. I don’t know whether it is because of pressure, but they have got to handle it. The crowd are right behind the team and they are fantastic, but the players have got to realise that.”
Once Rory (Patterson) came on he showed real desire, I might have started with him, but he only got back from Montenegro on Thursday night and he lost his bag so the lad has had a torrid time in getting back.
I love Joe Mason as a footballer, but I have to be careful with him. He gets in behind and he is a clever player. I had a hell of a lot of young players out there. If they are going to do it, I’ll play them. As I’ve said before that the players pick the team, so that will be the insight for next week.
Friday 13 August 2010
ALL ROADS LEAD TO WEMBLEY
This weekend sees a number of South West non-league sides take part in the extra preliminary round of the FA Cup. Newton Abbot based side Buckland Athletic, now managed by Steve Massey and former Tiverton Town manager Martyn Rogers, will be looking to win their first ever match in the competition as they face Radstock Town of the Toolstation Western League at Homers Heath. Rogers twice guided Tivvy to the 1st Round stage of the cup and will no doubt be keen to create some more cup history with Buckland.
Elsewhere, Dawlish Town travel to reigning Wessex League champions Poole Town and Cornwall will be guaranteed two representatives in the next round as Launceston play host to Bodmin Town and St Blazey face Torpoint Athletic.
Elsewhere, Dawlish Town travel to reigning Wessex League champions Poole Town and Cornwall will be guaranteed two representatives in the next round as Launceston play host to Bodmin Town and St Blazey face Torpoint Athletic.
FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round Selected ties:
Buckland Athletic vs Radstock Town
Ilfracombe Town vs Falmouth Town
Keynsham Town vs Tavistock
Launceston vs Bodmin Town
Poole Town vs Dawlish Town
Saltash United vs Bishop Sutton
St Blazey vs Torpoint Athletic
Thursday 12 August 2010
CARLING CUP ROUND-UP
South West interest in the Carling Cup is over for another year after all four South West sides bowed out of the competition at the 1st Round stage.
Torquay United and Yeovil Town both succumbed to late winning goals against Championship as they were beaten by a single goal against Reading and Crystal Palace respectively. Polish striker Gregorz Rasiak struck a 120th minute winner for the Royals at Plainmoor, which came minutes after Elliot Benyon rattled the woodwork for the Gulls.
A late strike from Alan Lee secured Crystal Palace's place in the 2nd Round at the Glovers expense, the result leaves Terry Skiverton searching for his first Carling Cup win as a manager.
Exeter City came close to causing a upset against Roy Keane's Ipswich Town as Ryan Harley gave the Grecians a 54th minute lead. However, teenager Ronan Murray equalised for the Tractor Boys on 63 minutes before former Plymouth midfielder David Norris gave Ipswich the lead in the 73rd minute. Exeter drew level as Harley struck again to complete his brace on 81st minutes to force the tie into extra time.
Norris then bagged a brace of his own in the 99th minute to give Keane a win to celebrate his 39th birthday with.
Plymouth also fell at the first hurdle as they were beaten 1-0 at home to Notts County. A 52nd minute goal from John Spicer was enough to seal the Magpies' passage into the next round.
Torquay United and Yeovil Town both succumbed to late winning goals against Championship as they were beaten by a single goal against Reading and Crystal Palace respectively. Polish striker Gregorz Rasiak struck a 120th minute winner for the Royals at Plainmoor, which came minutes after Elliot Benyon rattled the woodwork for the Gulls.
A late strike from Alan Lee secured Crystal Palace's place in the 2nd Round at the Glovers expense, the result leaves Terry Skiverton searching for his first Carling Cup win as a manager.
Exeter City came close to causing a upset against Roy Keane's Ipswich Town as Ryan Harley gave the Grecians a 54th minute lead. However, teenager Ronan Murray equalised for the Tractor Boys on 63 minutes before former Plymouth midfielder David Norris gave Ipswich the lead in the 73rd minute. Exeter drew level as Harley struck again to complete his brace on 81st minutes to force the tie into extra time.
Norris then bagged a brace of his own in the 99th minute to give Keane a win to celebrate his 39th birthday with.
Plymouth also fell at the first hurdle as they were beaten 1-0 at home to Notts County. A 52nd minute goal from John Spicer was enough to seal the Magpies' passage into the next round.
Wednesday 11 August 2010
RIP ADAM STANSFIELD 1978-2010
I am sad to report that Exeter City striker Adam Stansfield has passed away following his recent battle with bowel cancer.
Adam had been a key member of the Grecians side that won back to back promotions under Paul Tisdale and also helped Yeovil Town win promotion to the Football League under Gary Johnson in 2003.
I would like to pass on sincere condolenses to his wife, family and friends at this time.
Adam had been a key member of the Grecians side that won back to back promotions under Paul Tisdale and also helped Yeovil Town win promotion to the Football League under Gary Johnson in 2003.
I would like to pass on sincere condolenses to his wife, family and friends at this time.
Monday 9 August 2010
CARLING CUP 1ST ROUND PREVIEW
This season's Carling Cup 1st round draw has seen all four South West sides drawn at home as they bid to reach the second round. A win could potentially see them paired with one of the Premier League sides who didn't qualify for Europe last season as well as Burnley and Hull City who both received byes.
Plymouth Argyle face a Notts County side that will be looking to put the disappointment of an opening day 3-0 defeat at the hands of Huddersfield Town behind them. After two first round exits in the last two years, the Pilgrims haven't won a League Cup tie since the second round of the 2007-08 competition when they beat Doncaster Rovers 2-0. In contrast, confidence is likely to be high amongst the Pilgrims squad following their opening day win over Southampton.
It is also worth noting that Argyle have reached the Semi-Finals of the competition (1965 & 1974) twice and the team that made it in 1974 featured current Head Coach Paul Mariner.
Another of Mariner's former sides will be battling it out in Devon as Ipswich Town travel to St James Park to face Exeter City. The Grecians haven't won a League Cup tie since 1993 and it would be one of the shocks of the round if they were to overcome Roy Keane's side.
Having reached the final of the League Cup several times as a player with Nottingham Forest and Manchester United, Keane will be looking to do well in the competition. He will also be celebrating his 39th birthday on the day of the tie.
Terry Skiverton will be looking for the first League Cup win of his managerial career as Yeovil Town play host to Crystal Palace at Huish Park. The Glovers gained a renowned reputation as FA Cup giantkillers during their non-league days, but in their last two League Cup ties they have conceded nine goals. This includes a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Norwich City, which came days after the Canaries were thrashed 7-1 on the opening day of the campaign against Colchester.
Torquay United manager Paul Buckle will also be looking for his first League Cup win as manager of the Gulls as they entertain Reading at Plainmoor. During his reign at Plainmoor, Buckle has guided Torquay to the FA Trophy final and enjoyed a number of successful FA Cup runs and will be looking to pull off a shock against the Royals.
The Gulls have been overdue a good run in this competiton, the last time they won a tie came against Bournemouth in the 2001-02 season at the Avenue Stadium, Dorchester. Their reward for beating the Cherries was a trip to White Hart Lane to face Tottenham Hotspur, which saw them give a good account of themselves before losing 2-0.
Plymouth Argyle face a Notts County side that will be looking to put the disappointment of an opening day 3-0 defeat at the hands of Huddersfield Town behind them. After two first round exits in the last two years, the Pilgrims haven't won a League Cup tie since the second round of the 2007-08 competition when they beat Doncaster Rovers 2-0. In contrast, confidence is likely to be high amongst the Pilgrims squad following their opening day win over Southampton.
It is also worth noting that Argyle have reached the Semi-Finals of the competition (1965 & 1974) twice and the team that made it in 1974 featured current Head Coach Paul Mariner.
Another of Mariner's former sides will be battling it out in Devon as Ipswich Town travel to St James Park to face Exeter City. The Grecians haven't won a League Cup tie since 1993 and it would be one of the shocks of the round if they were to overcome Roy Keane's side.
Having reached the final of the League Cup several times as a player with Nottingham Forest and Manchester United, Keane will be looking to do well in the competition. He will also be celebrating his 39th birthday on the day of the tie.
Terry Skiverton will be looking for the first League Cup win of his managerial career as Yeovil Town play host to Crystal Palace at Huish Park. The Glovers gained a renowned reputation as FA Cup giantkillers during their non-league days, but in their last two League Cup ties they have conceded nine goals. This includes a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Norwich City, which came days after the Canaries were thrashed 7-1 on the opening day of the campaign against Colchester.
Torquay United manager Paul Buckle will also be looking for his first League Cup win as manager of the Gulls as they entertain Reading at Plainmoor. During his reign at Plainmoor, Buckle has guided Torquay to the FA Trophy final and enjoyed a number of successful FA Cup runs and will be looking to pull off a shock against the Royals.
The Gulls have been overdue a good run in this competiton, the last time they won a tie came against Bournemouth in the 2001-02 season at the Avenue Stadium, Dorchester. Their reward for beating the Cherries was a trip to White Hart Lane to face Tottenham Hotspur, which saw them give a good account of themselves before losing 2-0.
Saturday 7 August 2010
ROUND-UP OF OTHER RESULTS # WEEK 1
Peter Reid's reign as Plymouth Argyle manager got off to a winning start as the Pilgrims defeated Southampton 1-0 at the St Mary's Stadium. A 47th minute strike from Luke Summerfield wrapped up the points for Argyle.
Yeovil Town also won as Terry Skiverton came out on top against his predecessor Russell Slade, who is now in charge of Leyton Orient, as the Glovers beat Orient 2-1 at Huish Park. Dean Bowditch opened the scoring for Yeovil before Alex Revell equalised for the visitors. A debut goal from Arsenal loanee Luke Freeman on the stroke of half-time proved to be decisive for the Glovers.
A late goal from Richard Logan secured a point for Exeter as they drew 2-2 with Colchester United at St James Park. A 17th minute penalty from Ryan Harley put Paul Tisdale's side in front before an Anthony Wordsworth brace saw the U's edge in front before Logan struck on 87 minutes.
Yeovil Town also won as Terry Skiverton came out on top against his predecessor Russell Slade, who is now in charge of Leyton Orient, as the Glovers beat Orient 2-1 at Huish Park. Dean Bowditch opened the scoring for Yeovil before Alex Revell equalised for the visitors. A debut goal from Arsenal loanee Luke Freeman on the stroke of half-time proved to be decisive for the Glovers.
A late goal from Richard Logan secured a point for Exeter as they drew 2-2 with Colchester United at St James Park. A 17th minute penalty from Ryan Harley put Paul Tisdale's side in front before an Anthony Wordsworth brace saw the U's edge in front before Logan struck on 87 minutes.
GULLS MAKE DREAM START AGAINST THE COBBLERS
Torquay United manager Paul Buckle was delighted with his side’s 3-0 win opening day with over Northampton Town at Plainmoor. Goals from Kevin Nicholson, Chris Zebroski and Elliot Benyon made it a winning start to the new season for the Gulls as they brushed aside a highly fancied Cobblers side.
He said “I’m delighted to score three goals on the opening day of the season against a very good Northampton side. It was a good start for us and we carried on from where we left off last season in keeping a clean sheet. It was a typical first game of the season, a bit nervy and a bit edgy. We scored late in the first half with a wonderful counter attacking goal from Kevin Nicholson and then we went from strength to strength.”
The Gulls started the game in a positive manner as Zebroski went on a mazy run down the right wing that was snuffed out by Northampton left back Marcus Hall.
Defender Dean Beckwith looked to have given the Cobblers the lead on 10 minutes, but his close range effort was ruled out for offside.
On 35 minutes, Gulls centre back Mark Ellis latched on to a Nicholson corner. Unfortunately for Ellis, his headed effort was turned on to the cross bar by the Cobblers debutant keeper Oscar Jansson.
Torquay went ahead on 44 minutes when Nicholson fired a thumping shot into the back of the net from inside the penalty area against his former club.
After the break, Zebroski doubled Torquay’s lead in the 47th minute when he fired home a rebounded effort after Jansson parried his initial shot.
Benyon put Torquay three up on 50 minutes when he connected with a Lee Mansell through ball and slotted the ball past Jansson from 16 yards.
Substitute Michael Jacobs almost pulled a goal back for the Cobblers in the 65th minute with a well struck free-kick which hit the bar.
Nicholson almost bagged himself a brace in the 80th minute with a free-kick that was deflected on to the bar as the Gulls made a dream start to the campaign.
Northampton boss Ian Sampson said: “It goes without saying, you don’t like to lose your first game and to lose it by three goals to nil is disappointing. In the first half, the game was frantic and our quality was poor. The most disappointing thing was probably the reaction to the goals because we have quite a few experienced heads in the team.”
He said “I’m delighted to score three goals on the opening day of the season against a very good Northampton side. It was a good start for us and we carried on from where we left off last season in keeping a clean sheet. It was a typical first game of the season, a bit nervy and a bit edgy. We scored late in the first half with a wonderful counter attacking goal from Kevin Nicholson and then we went from strength to strength.”
The Gulls started the game in a positive manner as Zebroski went on a mazy run down the right wing that was snuffed out by Northampton left back Marcus Hall.
Defender Dean Beckwith looked to have given the Cobblers the lead on 10 minutes, but his close range effort was ruled out for offside.
On 35 minutes, Gulls centre back Mark Ellis latched on to a Nicholson corner. Unfortunately for Ellis, his headed effort was turned on to the cross bar by the Cobblers debutant keeper Oscar Jansson.
Torquay went ahead on 44 minutes when Nicholson fired a thumping shot into the back of the net from inside the penalty area against his former club.
After the break, Zebroski doubled Torquay’s lead in the 47th minute when he fired home a rebounded effort after Jansson parried his initial shot.
Benyon put Torquay three up on 50 minutes when he connected with a Lee Mansell through ball and slotted the ball past Jansson from 16 yards.
Substitute Michael Jacobs almost pulled a goal back for the Cobblers in the 65th minute with a well struck free-kick which hit the bar.
Nicholson almost bagged himself a brace in the 80th minute with a free-kick that was deflected on to the bar as the Gulls made a dream start to the campaign.
Northampton boss Ian Sampson said: “It goes without saying, you don’t like to lose your first game and to lose it by three goals to nil is disappointing. In the first half, the game was frantic and our quality was poor. The most disappointing thing was probably the reaction to the goals because we have quite a few experienced heads in the team.”
Friday 6 August 2010
GREEN ARMY ON THE MARCH AGAIN UNDER REID
The appointment of former Manchester City and Sunderland Peter Reid has provided a welcome boost to followers of Plymouth Argyle following their relegation from the Championship.
Former England international Reid will be working alongside Head Coach Paul Mariner and John Carver as Argyle look to win promotion from League One at the first attempt.
One downfall for the Pilgrims last season was their inability to find the back of the net-43 goals in 46 league games was hardly a prolific figure. However after the arrival of Northern Ireland striker Rory Patterson, a player who should make up for the sale of Jamie Mackie to QPR, and the impressive form of youth team product Joe Mason in their pre-season tour of Holland, Argyle have players who could hit the target on a regular basis.
When you throw in New Zealand World Cup striker Rory Fallon, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Steven McLean, Peter Reid almost has an embarrassment of riches at his disposal.
Another position where he has plenty of options available to him is in the centre of defence where he can all on Krisztian Timar, Marcel Seip, Kari Arnason, Bondz N'Gala and Reda Johnson.
Skipper Carl Fletcher, Luke Summerfield and new signing Anton Peterlin will battle it out for the spots in the centre of midfield, whilst Yala Bolasie and Craig Noone provide width on the flanks.
With the players at his disposal, Reid is more than capable of fashining a team that can challenge for the Play-Offs, but League One is a different league to the one they won promotion from in 2004.
Huddersfield, managed by the talented and ambitious Lee Clark missed out in the Play-Offs last season and have assembled a talented young squad to which they have added a number of experienced figures. Charlton finished 7th in the Premiership in 2004 look likely to be strong again, Southampton, now managed by Alan Pardew, were only denied a Play-Off spot last season by a points deduction and have been installed as the bookies favourites and Sheffield Wednesday who, like the Pilgrims, were relegated from the Championship last season and will be looking to make an immediate return.
All in all it promises to be an exciting season in League One for Argyle and one that will no doubt provide us with many twists and turns.
Former England international Reid will be working alongside Head Coach Paul Mariner and John Carver as Argyle look to win promotion from League One at the first attempt.
One downfall for the Pilgrims last season was their inability to find the back of the net-43 goals in 46 league games was hardly a prolific figure. However after the arrival of Northern Ireland striker Rory Patterson, a player who should make up for the sale of Jamie Mackie to QPR, and the impressive form of youth team product Joe Mason in their pre-season tour of Holland, Argyle have players who could hit the target on a regular basis.
When you throw in New Zealand World Cup striker Rory Fallon, Bradley Wright-Phillips and Steven McLean, Peter Reid almost has an embarrassment of riches at his disposal.
Another position where he has plenty of options available to him is in the centre of defence where he can all on Krisztian Timar, Marcel Seip, Kari Arnason, Bondz N'Gala and Reda Johnson.
Skipper Carl Fletcher, Luke Summerfield and new signing Anton Peterlin will battle it out for the spots in the centre of midfield, whilst Yala Bolasie and Craig Noone provide width on the flanks.
With the players at his disposal, Reid is more than capable of fashining a team that can challenge for the Play-Offs, but League One is a different league to the one they won promotion from in 2004.
Huddersfield, managed by the talented and ambitious Lee Clark missed out in the Play-Offs last season and have assembled a talented young squad to which they have added a number of experienced figures. Charlton finished 7th in the Premiership in 2004 look likely to be strong again, Southampton, now managed by Alan Pardew, were only denied a Play-Off spot last season by a points deduction and have been installed as the bookies favourites and Sheffield Wednesday who, like the Pilgrims, were relegated from the Championship last season and will be looking to make an immediate return.
All in all it promises to be an exciting season in League One for Argyle and one that will no doubt provide us with many twists and turns.
Thursday 5 August 2010
THE GULLS AIM TO SCALE NEW HEIGHTS
With seven wins in eight pre-season friendly games, Torquay United will be looking to hit the ground running in the 2010-11 season. This sequence of form follows an impressive run-in at the end of the 2009-10 campaign that saw the Gulls keep a record seven consecutive clean sheets in their final seven matches.
Despite loan signings Michael Poke and Scott Rendell moving on to pastures new and Mustapha Carayol joining Lincoln City, Paul Buckle has been able to secure the services of experienced centre back Guy Branston on a permanent basis. Another former loan signing winger Lloyd Macklin has also made a permanent switch to Plainmoor after he was released by Swindon. Northern Ireland Under-21 striker Billy Kee has joined from Leicester City and goalkeeper Danny Potter signed from Cambridge to provide competition for Scott Bevan between the sticks.
The return of Martin Giritton on a six-month loan deal from Chesterfield adds more experience to the Gulls forward line as well as providing a link with the lasr Torquay side to win promotion in the 2003-04 season.
Former Norwich City midfielder Damon Lathrope was snapped up following a successful trial spell and joins a midfielde roster that already includes skipper Nicky Wroe, Lee Mansell who is now the Gulls longest serving player and talented Northern Irish youngster Eunan O'Kane.
In my final assessment, I feel that Paul Buckle has assembled what is probably Torquay's most exciting squad since they won promotion under Leroy Rosenior in 2004. If he can find a 30-40 goal a season partnership from last year's leading scorer Elliot Benyon, Gritton, Kee and Chris Zebroski, then the Gulls will most certainly have a big say in the promotion and play-off race.
Despite loan signings Michael Poke and Scott Rendell moving on to pastures new and Mustapha Carayol joining Lincoln City, Paul Buckle has been able to secure the services of experienced centre back Guy Branston on a permanent basis. Another former loan signing winger Lloyd Macklin has also made a permanent switch to Plainmoor after he was released by Swindon. Northern Ireland Under-21 striker Billy Kee has joined from Leicester City and goalkeeper Danny Potter signed from Cambridge to provide competition for Scott Bevan between the sticks.
The return of Martin Giritton on a six-month loan deal from Chesterfield adds more experience to the Gulls forward line as well as providing a link with the lasr Torquay side to win promotion in the 2003-04 season.
Former Norwich City midfielder Damon Lathrope was snapped up following a successful trial spell and joins a midfielde roster that already includes skipper Nicky Wroe, Lee Mansell who is now the Gulls longest serving player and talented Northern Irish youngster Eunan O'Kane.
In my final assessment, I feel that Paul Buckle has assembled what is probably Torquay's most exciting squad since they won promotion under Leroy Rosenior in 2004. If he can find a 30-40 goal a season partnership from last year's leading scorer Elliot Benyon, Gritton, Kee and Chris Zebroski, then the Gulls will most certainly have a big say in the promotion and play-off race.
Wednesday 4 August 2010
THE COUNTDOWN CONTINUES
In my second of a four part look at the prospects of the four South West League sides ahead of the new season, I will now assess the chances of Exeter City
Exeter City
After securing their League One status on the final day of the 2009-10 season, Paul Tisdale will be looking for the Grecians to push on in the forthcoming campaign.
Tisdale has stated that his squad have learned the lessons from last season and will be better this time round as a result. He has also looked to increase Exeter's attacking options with the signings of strikers Daniel Nardiello from Blackpool, John O'Flynn from Barnet and veteran marksman Jamie Cureton.
Under Tisdale Exeter have gained a reputation for playing neat, passing football so the Grecians new look forward line will not be short of chances from which to feed off. With former Arsenal trainee David Noble returning to full fitness, it looks set to be business as usual at St James Park.
Trinidad and Tobago winger Jake Thomson who joined from Southampton is another player who possesses the potential to emerge as a talismanic figure for Exeter.
One individual who could be destined for bigger things this season is Paul Tisdale himself. Now embarking on his fifth season in charge of the Grecians, Tisdale has overseen back to back promotions before steering Exeter to League One survival last year.
During the summer, he attracted interest from Swansea City before the Swans eventually decided on former Watford and Reading boss Brendan Rodgers. So any further successes with the Grecians in the current term will serve to increase his standing within the game as one of the lower league's bright young managers.
Exeter City
After securing their League One status on the final day of the 2009-10 season, Paul Tisdale will be looking for the Grecians to push on in the forthcoming campaign.
Tisdale has stated that his squad have learned the lessons from last season and will be better this time round as a result. He has also looked to increase Exeter's attacking options with the signings of strikers Daniel Nardiello from Blackpool, John O'Flynn from Barnet and veteran marksman Jamie Cureton.
Under Tisdale Exeter have gained a reputation for playing neat, passing football so the Grecians new look forward line will not be short of chances from which to feed off. With former Arsenal trainee David Noble returning to full fitness, it looks set to be business as usual at St James Park.
Trinidad and Tobago winger Jake Thomson who joined from Southampton is another player who possesses the potential to emerge as a talismanic figure for Exeter.
One individual who could be destined for bigger things this season is Paul Tisdale himself. Now embarking on his fifth season in charge of the Grecians, Tisdale has overseen back to back promotions before steering Exeter to League One survival last year.
During the summer, he attracted interest from Swansea City before the Swans eventually decided on former Watford and Reading boss Brendan Rodgers. So any further successes with the Grecians in the current term will serve to increase his standing within the game as one of the lower league's bright young managers.
Tuesday 3 August 2010
WELCOME
Hi, I'm Steve and I am a reporter for the Football League Paper based in the South West of England.
The 2010-11 season will be my second season writing for the paper after successfully covering Yeovil Town,
Torquay United and Plymouth Argyle in the 2009-10 campaign.
This season, I will be running this blog alongside my reporting (which incidentally begins this Saturday with Torquay United against Northampton Town) to give a different point of view on football based in an area not regarded as a traditional 'hot-bed' of the game.
To start with I will be running a lowdown on the prospects of the four South West league sides on the eve of the big kick-off. I will begin by looking at the team that I covered most regularly last season, Yeovil Town.
After guiding the Glovers to a respctable 15th place finish in 2009-10, Yeovil boss Terry Skiverton will be looking to make progress in the forthcoming campaign.
Skiverton has so far assembled a youthful squad, which he has complemented with experience with the signing of former Brighton defender Adam Virgo who Gordon Strachan once paid £1.5million for when he was in charge of Celtic.
Another current Glover who will be looking to make a big impression this term is striker Dean Bowditch who agreed a new deal in the summer to extend his stay at Huish Park. A former Ipswich starlet, Bowditch experienced a bittersweet debut for Yeovil on the opening day of last season. After scoring in the first half against Tranmere Rovers, he was then stretched off in the second half with a dislocated shoulder.
However, he made a goalscoring return after finding the back of the net against Soouthend United in October. He finished the campaign with ten goals in 30 appearances and will be looking to continue scoring in the same vein during this coming season.
Last season also saw several loan signings make a name for themselves at Huish Park, including Spurs trio Steven Caulker, Ryan Mason and Jon Obika. These players alongwith other temporary signings such as Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, Swansea midfielder Shaun MacDonald and the returning Gavin Williams all served the Glovers well during the campaign.
It is also worth mentioning that since their return to their parent club, Caulker was one of the best performers for England in the UEFA Under-19 Championships this summer. Mason and Obika have both featured for Spurs in their pre-season friendlies this season.
Current loanees John Sullivan, Rob Kiernan, Cameron Stewart and Luke Freeman who arrived from Millwall, Watford, Manchester United and Arsenal respectively and will be looking to follow their example.
Other new arrivals at Yeovil include Andy Williams who joined from Bristol Rovers, Luke Ayling signed from Arsenal after a brief loan spell towards the end of last season, defender Paul Huntingdon moved from Stockport and midfielder Ed Upson was recruited following his release from Ipswich.
All in all, the Glovers once again look capable of holding their own in League One and proving the bookies, who have once again have tipped them for relegation, wrong and causing a few surprises along the way.
The 2010-11 season will be my second season writing for the paper after successfully covering Yeovil Town,
Torquay United and Plymouth Argyle in the 2009-10 campaign.
This season, I will be running this blog alongside my reporting (which incidentally begins this Saturday with Torquay United against Northampton Town) to give a different point of view on football based in an area not regarded as a traditional 'hot-bed' of the game.
To start with I will be running a lowdown on the prospects of the four South West league sides on the eve of the big kick-off. I will begin by looking at the team that I covered most regularly last season, Yeovil Town.
The Glovers
After guiding the Glovers to a respctable 15th place finish in 2009-10, Yeovil boss Terry Skiverton will be looking to make progress in the forthcoming campaign.
Skiverton has so far assembled a youthful squad, which he has complemented with experience with the signing of former Brighton defender Adam Virgo who Gordon Strachan once paid £1.5million for when he was in charge of Celtic.
Another current Glover who will be looking to make a big impression this term is striker Dean Bowditch who agreed a new deal in the summer to extend his stay at Huish Park. A former Ipswich starlet, Bowditch experienced a bittersweet debut for Yeovil on the opening day of last season. After scoring in the first half against Tranmere Rovers, he was then stretched off in the second half with a dislocated shoulder.
However, he made a goalscoring return after finding the back of the net against Soouthend United in October. He finished the campaign with ten goals in 30 appearances and will be looking to continue scoring in the same vein during this coming season.
Last season also saw several loan signings make a name for themselves at Huish Park, including Spurs trio Steven Caulker, Ryan Mason and Jon Obika. These players alongwith other temporary signings such as Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, Swansea midfielder Shaun MacDonald and the returning Gavin Williams all served the Glovers well during the campaign.
It is also worth mentioning that since their return to their parent club, Caulker was one of the best performers for England in the UEFA Under-19 Championships this summer. Mason and Obika have both featured for Spurs in their pre-season friendlies this season.
Current loanees John Sullivan, Rob Kiernan, Cameron Stewart and Luke Freeman who arrived from Millwall, Watford, Manchester United and Arsenal respectively and will be looking to follow their example.
Other new arrivals at Yeovil include Andy Williams who joined from Bristol Rovers, Luke Ayling signed from Arsenal after a brief loan spell towards the end of last season, defender Paul Huntingdon moved from Stockport and midfielder Ed Upson was recruited following his release from Ipswich.
All in all, the Glovers once again look capable of holding their own in League One and proving the bookies, who have once again have tipped them for relegation, wrong and causing a few surprises along the way.
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