With a former Arsenal legend as his dad and a current England international for a brother, Bradley Wright-Phillips has had a lot of live up to in his career.
Bradley arrived at Home Park looking to make a fresh start after a spell at Southampton, but a number of injury problems prevented him from getting a regular run in the side under Paul Sturrock and he only appeared as a substitute under Luggy.
It was not until Paul Mariner had assumed control of first team affairs that Bradley was given his first start in a 1-1 draw with Coventry City in March 2010. In his next start, in a Westcountry derby clash with Bristol City, he was on target as the Pilgrims won 3-2.
Bradley then went on to strike up a useful partnership with Jamie Mackie, who has recently been called into the Scotland squad, prior to Argyle's relegation to League One.
However, having scoring his fourth goal in as many games for the Pilgrims, following his brace against Swindon Town, he has given himself the chance of doing something that no Pilgrims striker has done since Tommy Tynan, which is to score 20 or more goals in a season.
Tynan hit 24 goals for Argyle in the 1988-89 season and only midfielder Steve Castle, who found the back of the net 21 times during the 1993-94 campaign under Peter Shilton, has been able to hit more than 20 goals for the Pilgrims since then.
A number of strikers have managed to hit double figures for Argyle following Tynan's 1988-89 haul including Robbie Turner, Dwight Marshall, Kevin Nugent, Adrian Littlejohn, Mickey Evans, Carlo Corazzin, Paul McGregor and Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. However, the player with the best goal return in the aforementioned list is Littlejohn who found the back of the net 17 times in Neil Warnock's Play-Off winning side in the 1995-96 campaign.
In the modern area, prior to Tynan, who also scored 31 goals in the 1984-85 season, Argyle's only other 20 goal-a-season men in the modern era have been Dave Kemp who scored 24 times in the 1980-81 campaign, Fred Binney, who hit 26 in the 1978-79 season, and Billy Rafferty who struck 23 times in the 1974-75 campaign.
Thursday 30 September 2010
Wednesday 29 September 2010
WRIGHT-PHILLIPS AT THE DOUBLE FOR ARGYLE
A brace from Bradley Wrught-Phillips helped Plymouth Argyle to their second away win of the season as the Pilgrims defeated Swindon Town 3-2 at the County Ground.
Reda Johnson opened the scoring for Argyle before Wright-Phillips doubled their advantage before David Prutton and Michael Rose replied for the Robins. The former Manchester City and Southampton striker then struck again in injury time to wrap up the points for the Pilgrims.
Yeovil Town dropped into the bottom four in League One despite securing a point against Southampton at Huish Park. Guilherme do Prado gave the Saints the lead before the Glovers levelled through an Adam Virgo penalty.
Also in League One, Exeter City slumped to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of AFC Bournemouth at the Fitness First Stadium. A Michael Symes brace and another strike from Marc Pugh sealed victory for the Cherries.
Torquay United have now five games without a win after losing 1-0 to Aldershot Town at Plainmoor courtesy of an 86th minute strike from Marvin Morgan. However, the Gulls still remain in the League Two Play-Off zone.
Reda Johnson opened the scoring for Argyle before Wright-Phillips doubled their advantage before David Prutton and Michael Rose replied for the Robins. The former Manchester City and Southampton striker then struck again in injury time to wrap up the points for the Pilgrims.
Yeovil Town dropped into the bottom four in League One despite securing a point against Southampton at Huish Park. Guilherme do Prado gave the Saints the lead before the Glovers levelled through an Adam Virgo penalty.
Also in League One, Exeter City slumped to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of AFC Bournemouth at the Fitness First Stadium. A Michael Symes brace and another strike from Marc Pugh sealed victory for the Cherries.
Torquay United have now five games without a win after losing 1-0 to Aldershot Town at Plainmoor courtesy of an 86th minute strike from Marvin Morgan. However, the Gulls still remain in the League Two Play-Off zone.
Tuesday 28 September 2010
MIDWEEK PREVIEW
A number of our sides go into matches tonight looking to bounce back after disappointing performances at the weekend.
Torquay United will be hoping to erase memories of their 3-1 defeat at the hands of Macclesfield Town with an improved display at Aldershot Town.
In League Two, Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City both face South West derbies against Swindon Town and AFC Bournemouth respectively. The Pilgrims picked up a point against Rochdale on Saturday and will be looking to cliuch all three points at the County Ground. The Grecians are searching for a win that will see them move into the Play-Off zone.
Yeovil Town, meanwhile, host Southampton at Huish Park and Glovers Terry Skiverton will be hoping for an improvement from his side after their disappointing 3-1 home defeat by Exeter at the weekend which now means they have conceded 12 games in their four league encounters.
Torquay United will be hoping to erase memories of their 3-1 defeat at the hands of Macclesfield Town with an improved display at Aldershot Town.
In League Two, Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City both face South West derbies against Swindon Town and AFC Bournemouth respectively. The Pilgrims picked up a point against Rochdale on Saturday and will be looking to cliuch all three points at the County Ground. The Grecians are searching for a win that will see them move into the Play-Off zone.
Yeovil Town, meanwhile, host Southampton at Huish Park and Glovers Terry Skiverton will be hoping for an improvement from his side after their disappointing 3-1 home defeat by Exeter at the weekend which now means they have conceded 12 games in their four league encounters.
Sunday 26 September 2010
GRECIANS TAKE FIRST DERBY HONOURS
In the first Devon-Somerset league meeting of the season, Exeter City came out on top as they defeated Yeovil Town 3-1 at Huish Park. A brace from Richard Logan and another from Ryan Harley ensured that the Grecians came out on top as both sides said a final farewell to the late Adam Stansfield. Sam Williams scored the Glovers consolation goal.
Plymouth Argyle recovered from their 2-0 midweek defeat at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion to draw 1-1 with Rochdale at Spotland. Bradley Wright-Phillips put the Pilgrims in front with a first half strike before Dale, who are managed by former Argyle defender Keith Hill, equalised in the second half through Craig Dawson.
Meanwhile in League Two, Torquay United slipped to a surprise 3-1 defeat at home to Macclesfield Town. Hamza Bencherif gave the Silkmen the lead in the 12th minute before Elliot Benyon turned in a cross from Eunan O'Kane on 40 minutes. However, Ross Draper and Emile Sinclair struck in the 76th and 78th minutes respectively to wrap up the points for Macclesfield.
Plymouth Argyle recovered from their 2-0 midweek defeat at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion to draw 1-1 with Rochdale at Spotland. Bradley Wright-Phillips put the Pilgrims in front with a first half strike before Dale, who are managed by former Argyle defender Keith Hill, equalised in the second half through Craig Dawson.
Meanwhile in League Two, Torquay United slipped to a surprise 3-1 defeat at home to Macclesfield Town. Hamza Bencherif gave the Silkmen the lead in the 12th minute before Elliot Benyon turned in a cross from Eunan O'Kane on 40 minutes. However, Ross Draper and Emile Sinclair struck in the 76th and 78th minutes respectively to wrap up the points for Macclesfield.
Friday 24 September 2010
A FINAL FAREWELL TO ADAM
Tomorrow's League One encounter between Yeovil Town and Exeter City will be an emotional occasion for both clubs as it marks the first league meeting between the two sides since the death of Adam Stansfield.
When the two sides met for the corresponding fixture last season, the Glovers came out on winning 2-1 with goals from Stefan Stam and Ryan Mason. The scorer for the Grecians that afternoon was Adam Stansfield and sportingly he refused to celebrate his goal. Sadly, it would prove to be his last ever appearance at Huish Park.
Adam was given his first taste of professional football by Yeovil in 2001 when Gary Johnson signed him from Western League side Elmore. During a three year stay at Huish Park, Adam helped the Glovers to win the FA Trophy in 2002 and, a year later, played a major role securing Yeovil's promotion to the Football League in 2003.
Ubfortunately for Adam, a leg break in a pre-season friendly meant he was unable to play a major role in the Glovers' debut season as a league club and he was released at the end of the 2003-04 campaign.
In 2006, Adam joined Exeter City where he was an influential member of the Grecians that achieved back to back promotions under Paul Tisdale before consolidating their League One status last season.
Both sides will be wearing commemorative shirts tomorrow and Adam's brother Paul will be attempting to run to the game along with fan Nick Bryant to mark the final on-field commemoration for Adam.
When the two sides met for the corresponding fixture last season, the Glovers came out on winning 2-1 with goals from Stefan Stam and Ryan Mason. The scorer for the Grecians that afternoon was Adam Stansfield and sportingly he refused to celebrate his goal. Sadly, it would prove to be his last ever appearance at Huish Park.
Adam was given his first taste of professional football by Yeovil in 2001 when Gary Johnson signed him from Western League side Elmore. During a three year stay at Huish Park, Adam helped the Glovers to win the FA Trophy in 2002 and, a year later, played a major role securing Yeovil's promotion to the Football League in 2003.
Ubfortunately for Adam, a leg break in a pre-season friendly meant he was unable to play a major role in the Glovers' debut season as a league club and he was released at the end of the 2003-04 campaign.
In 2006, Adam joined Exeter City where he was an influential member of the Grecians that achieved back to back promotions under Paul Tisdale before consolidating their League One status last season.
Both sides will be wearing commemorative shirts tomorrow and Adam's brother Paul will be attempting to run to the game along with fan Nick Bryant to mark the final on-field commemoration for Adam.
Wednesday 22 September 2010
ARGYLE CONSISTENTLY INCONSISTENT
After producing their first win in front of their own fans in six months with a superb 3-2 victory over Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday, Plymouth Argyle were brought back down to earth last night with a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion at Home Park.
To rub further salt in the wounds, Ashley Barnes, who left the Pilgrims to join the Seagulls in the close season, was on target for the visitors.
After the win over Wednesday, Peter Reid stated that his side needed to push on after picking up their first three points of the season. However, this defeat will surely see the former Sunderland boss heading back to the drawing board.
The 2010-11 campaign looks very much like a season of transition for Argyle and, with many high earners still currently on the Home Park payroll, Reid may not be able to make this team his own until the 2011-12 season at the very earliest.
There is also the ongoing waiting for the international clearance of Stephane Zubar, which will enable the right back, who arrived at Home Park on transfer deadline day, to appear in competitive matches for the Pilgrims.
Of the current squad, Bradley Wright-Phillips made one goal (Carl Fletcher's opener) against Sheffield Wednesday before finding the back of the net himself and if he continues to perform in that vein, he may yet have a long term future at Home Park.
Marcel Seip was another player who impressed against the Owls, when he came on to fill in at right back following the dismissal of Bondz N'gala. After a period in the wilderness which saw him loaned out to Blackpool and Sheffield United last season, the Dutchman could also have a chance of forcing his way back into the team.
One player whose form and fitness will have a big say on Argyle's fortunes is right winger Craig Noone, who despite not being the tallest of players, is more than capable of winning aerial battles with larger opponents.
This was most evident when he rose highest in the Sheffield Wednesday penalty area to head home Argyle's winning goal on Saturday.
To rub further salt in the wounds, Ashley Barnes, who left the Pilgrims to join the Seagulls in the close season, was on target for the visitors.
After the win over Wednesday, Peter Reid stated that his side needed to push on after picking up their first three points of the season. However, this defeat will surely see the former Sunderland boss heading back to the drawing board.
The 2010-11 campaign looks very much like a season of transition for Argyle and, with many high earners still currently on the Home Park payroll, Reid may not be able to make this team his own until the 2011-12 season at the very earliest.
There is also the ongoing waiting for the international clearance of Stephane Zubar, which will enable the right back, who arrived at Home Park on transfer deadline day, to appear in competitive matches for the Pilgrims.
Of the current squad, Bradley Wright-Phillips made one goal (Carl Fletcher's opener) against Sheffield Wednesday before finding the back of the net himself and if he continues to perform in that vein, he may yet have a long term future at Home Park.
Marcel Seip was another player who impressed against the Owls, when he came on to fill in at right back following the dismissal of Bondz N'gala. After a period in the wilderness which saw him loaned out to Blackpool and Sheffield United last season, the Dutchman could also have a chance of forcing his way back into the team.
One player whose form and fitness will have a big say on Argyle's fortunes is right winger Craig Noone, who despite not being the tallest of players, is more than capable of winning aerial battles with larger opponents.
This was most evident when he rose highest in the Sheffield Wednesday penalty area to head home Argyle's winning goal on Saturday.
Sunday 19 September 2010
ARGYLE UP AND RUNNING
Plymouth Argyle recorded their first home league win of the season as they came out on top in a five goal thriller against Sheffield Wednesday.
Skipper Carl Fletcher opened the scoring before James O'Connor equalised for the Owls. The Pilgrims were reduced to ten men on the stroke of half-time following the dismissal of right back Bondz N'gala.
Bradley Wright-Phillips restored Argyle's lead on the stroke of half-time, but Wednesday were back on level terms later in the game when substitute Tommy Miller curled home a 30-yard volley. However, this was not the end of the scoring for the afternoon as Craig Noone nodded home a Jim Paterson cross to make it 3-2 to the Pilgrims.
Afterwards, Plymouth boss Peter Reid hailed the performance as one of the best performances that he had been involved in as a player and manager.
Elsewhere, Yeovil Town's topsy turvy season continued as they lost 4-2 to League One leaders Huddersfield Town at the Galpharm Stadium after leading 2-0 at one stage. Goals from Dean Bowditch and Paul Huntington gave the Glovers a two goal advantage going into the half-time break before the Terriers struck back in the second half through Scott Arfield before centre back John McCombe bagged a brace. Gary Roberts later added a fourth from the penalty spot for Lee Clark's side as they soared to the top of the League One table.
A late equaliser from Lee Tomlin secured a point for Peterborough United against Exeter City at St James Park. An own goal from Troy Archibald-Henville put the Posh ahead in the first half before the Grecians struck back through Daniel Nardiello and Jamie Cureton before Tomlin scored his late leveller.
In League Two, Torquay United dropped out of the automatic promotion places after they were held to a goalless draw by their former Blue Square Premier rivals Stevenage.
Skipper Carl Fletcher opened the scoring before James O'Connor equalised for the Owls. The Pilgrims were reduced to ten men on the stroke of half-time following the dismissal of right back Bondz N'gala.
Bradley Wright-Phillips restored Argyle's lead on the stroke of half-time, but Wednesday were back on level terms later in the game when substitute Tommy Miller curled home a 30-yard volley. However, this was not the end of the scoring for the afternoon as Craig Noone nodded home a Jim Paterson cross to make it 3-2 to the Pilgrims.
Afterwards, Plymouth boss Peter Reid hailed the performance as one of the best performances that he had been involved in as a player and manager.
Elsewhere, Yeovil Town's topsy turvy season continued as they lost 4-2 to League One leaders Huddersfield Town at the Galpharm Stadium after leading 2-0 at one stage. Goals from Dean Bowditch and Paul Huntington gave the Glovers a two goal advantage going into the half-time break before the Terriers struck back in the second half through Scott Arfield before centre back John McCombe bagged a brace. Gary Roberts later added a fourth from the penalty spot for Lee Clark's side as they soared to the top of the League One table.
A late equaliser from Lee Tomlin secured a point for Peterborough United against Exeter City at St James Park. An own goal from Troy Archibald-Henville put the Posh ahead in the first half before the Grecians struck back through Daniel Nardiello and Jamie Cureton before Tomlin scored his late leveller.
In League Two, Torquay United dropped out of the automatic promotion places after they were held to a goalless draw by their former Blue Square Premier rivals Stevenage.
Friday 17 September 2010
WEEKEND PREVIEW
This weekend's matches sees Plymouth Argyle, who are still searching for their first home win of the season, take on Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.
Argyle have so far only managed to pick up one point at Home Park so far this season and haven't won in front of their own fans since 16th March 2010, when they recorded a 3-2 victory over Bristol City.
Peter Reid will be sweating on the fitness of skipper Carl Fletcher who missed their 1-1 draw at Colchester United last week with a thigh strain.
The Owls, meanwhile, have lost their last two league encounters after winning three of their opening four League One fixtures of the campaign.
Exeter City will be looking to make it three wins out of three when they play host to League One leaders Peterborough United at St James Park. Manager Paul Tisdale has no new injury worries, but skipper Matt Taylor and Player-Coach Marcus Stewart remain sidelined.
After beating Tranmere Rovers 3-1 last week, Yeovil Town travel to Huddersfield Town as Terry Skiverton's men look to go on a run of wins. His counterpart at the Galpharm Stadium Lee Clark has stated he believes his side will not get a easy ride against the Glovers.
In League Two, leaders Torquay United take on their former Blue Square Premier rivals Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium. After picking up the Manager of the Month award for August, Paul Buckle will be looking to see the Gulls return to winning ways against a team they recorded three wins and a draw against during their stint in the Conference.
One name amongst the Stevenage ranks who will be familiar to Torquay followers is that of Tim Sills, a player who played a key role in helping the Gulls return to the Football League.
Argyle have so far only managed to pick up one point at Home Park so far this season and haven't won in front of their own fans since 16th March 2010, when they recorded a 3-2 victory over Bristol City.
Peter Reid will be sweating on the fitness of skipper Carl Fletcher who missed their 1-1 draw at Colchester United last week with a thigh strain.
The Owls, meanwhile, have lost their last two league encounters after winning three of their opening four League One fixtures of the campaign.
Exeter City will be looking to make it three wins out of three when they play host to League One leaders Peterborough United at St James Park. Manager Paul Tisdale has no new injury worries, but skipper Matt Taylor and Player-Coach Marcus Stewart remain sidelined.
After beating Tranmere Rovers 3-1 last week, Yeovil Town travel to Huddersfield Town as Terry Skiverton's men look to go on a run of wins. His counterpart at the Galpharm Stadium Lee Clark has stated he believes his side will not get a easy ride against the Glovers.
In League Two, leaders Torquay United take on their former Blue Square Premier rivals Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium. After picking up the Manager of the Month award for August, Paul Buckle will be looking to see the Gulls return to winning ways against a team they recorded three wins and a draw against during their stint in the Conference.
One name amongst the Stevenage ranks who will be familiar to Torquay followers is that of Tim Sills, a player who played a key role in helping the Gulls return to the Football League.
Wednesday 15 September 2010
GRECIANS LEAD THE WAY IN WESTCOUNTRY
After winning two league games on the trot, Exeter City currently find themselves as the highest placed team in the South West.
This is a far cry from the dark days the Chairmanship of John Russell which saw the Grecians relegated from the Football League in 2003 and nearly go out of business at the same time.
However, under the managerial reign of Paul Tisdale Exeter have won back to back promotions from the Conference to League One between 2008 and 2009. Following the consolidation of their League One status last season, Tisdale will be looking to help the Grecians to establish at this level during the 2010-11 season.
Recently the club has been in the media limelight following the death of striker Adam Stansfield from bowel cancer. But following a home win over Charlton Athletic and an impressive 3-2 away victory over Hartlepool United, the Grecians currently lie 12th in League One.
Summer signing John O'Flynn bagged a brace in their win at Hartlepool and if he can maintain his scoring form then the Grecians could surprise a few people.
This is a far cry from the dark days the Chairmanship of John Russell which saw the Grecians relegated from the Football League in 2003 and nearly go out of business at the same time.
However, under the managerial reign of Paul Tisdale Exeter have won back to back promotions from the Conference to League One between 2008 and 2009. Following the consolidation of their League One status last season, Tisdale will be looking to help the Grecians to establish at this level during the 2010-11 season.
Recently the club has been in the media limelight following the death of striker Adam Stansfield from bowel cancer. But following a home win over Charlton Athletic and an impressive 3-2 away victory over Hartlepool United, the Grecians currently lie 12th in League One.
Summer signing John O'Flynn bagged a brace in their win at Hartlepool and if he can maintain his scoring form then the Grecians could surprise a few people.
Sunday 12 September 2010
TORQUAY REMAIN TOP OF LEAGUE TWO
Despite being held to a goalless draw at Plainmoor by Accrington Stanley, Torquay United remain top of League Two on goal difference.
The Gulls are currently on 13 points for the 2010-11 campaign and lead the table by virtue of having a superior goal difference to Shrewsbury Town and Port Vale.
Yeovil Town bounced back from their 4-0 defeat at hands of Notts County to win 3-1 at home to Tranmere Rovers. Goals from Dean Bowditch, Paul Huntington and Andy Welsh secured all three points for the Glovers before Rovers grabbed a late consolation goal through a penalty from Ian Thomas-Moore.
Exeter City made it two wins out of two with a 3-2 away win over Hartlepool United. Ryan Harley opened the scoring for the Grecians, their lead lasted until Pool equalised through Ritchie Humphrey. Anthony Sweeney then gave Hartlepool the lead before John O'Flynn bagged a second half brace to clinch all three points for Paul Tisdale's side.
A second half strike from defender Reda Johnson earned a point for Plymouth Argyle as they travelled East to face Colchester United. Johnson's effort cancelled Dave Bond's opener for the U's to move Argyle clear of the relegation zone.
The Gulls are currently on 13 points for the 2010-11 campaign and lead the table by virtue of having a superior goal difference to Shrewsbury Town and Port Vale.
Yeovil Town bounced back from their 4-0 defeat at hands of Notts County to win 3-1 at home to Tranmere Rovers. Goals from Dean Bowditch, Paul Huntington and Andy Welsh secured all three points for the Glovers before Rovers grabbed a late consolation goal through a penalty from Ian Thomas-Moore.
Exeter City made it two wins out of two with a 3-2 away win over Hartlepool United. Ryan Harley opened the scoring for the Grecians, their lead lasted until Pool equalised through Ritchie Humphrey. Anthony Sweeney then gave Hartlepool the lead before John O'Flynn bagged a second half brace to clinch all three points for Paul Tisdale's side.
A second half strike from defender Reda Johnson earned a point for Plymouth Argyle as they travelled East to face Colchester United. Johnson's effort cancelled Dave Bond's opener for the U's to move Argyle clear of the relegation zone.
Friday 10 September 2010
TALKING YEOVIL #4
After last week's 4-0 away defeat at hands of Notts County, Yeovil manager Terry Skiverton issued an apology to Glovers fans' via social networking site Twitter and vowed to turn the club around.
He also stated in the media that the club being placed in the relegation zone could be a 'kick up the backside' for his squad and they have a chance to make amends at home to Tranmere Rovers tomorrow.
In the week that followed, Skivo re-signed Gavin Williams on loan from Bristol City who, of course, enjoyed a successful loan stint at Huish Park towards the end of last season.
'Super Gav' will be looking to make his third Glovers debut, as will Shaun MacDonald who missed the Notts County debacle because of international duty with the Wales Under-21 side.
If Yeovil are to climb the League One table, their home form will be crucial and if they need any source of inspiration then they could do a lot worse than look to the memories of last season's home fixture with Tranmere on the opening day of the campaign.
The Glovers came out on top with a 2-0 victory with goals from Dean Bowditch and a penalty from Gavin Tomlin. The match also saw Spurs loanees Steven Caulker and Ryan Mason make their debuts at the start of what improved to be a useful learning curve for both players.
It was also John Barnes' first match as Tranmere boss and he didn't stick around to face the assembled media afterwards.
He also stated in the media that the club being placed in the relegation zone could be a 'kick up the backside' for his squad and they have a chance to make amends at home to Tranmere Rovers tomorrow.
In the week that followed, Skivo re-signed Gavin Williams on loan from Bristol City who, of course, enjoyed a successful loan stint at Huish Park towards the end of last season.
'Super Gav' will be looking to make his third Glovers debut, as will Shaun MacDonald who missed the Notts County debacle because of international duty with the Wales Under-21 side.
If Yeovil are to climb the League One table, their home form will be crucial and if they need any source of inspiration then they could do a lot worse than look to the memories of last season's home fixture with Tranmere on the opening day of the campaign.
The Glovers came out on top with a 2-0 victory with goals from Dean Bowditch and a penalty from Gavin Tomlin. The match also saw Spurs loanees Steven Caulker and Ryan Mason make their debuts at the start of what improved to be a useful learning curve for both players.
It was also John Barnes' first match as Tranmere boss and he didn't stick around to face the assembled media afterwards.
Thursday 9 September 2010
BUCKS WINS MANAGER OF THE MONTH AWARD
Torquay United manager Paul Buckle has been voted as the Npower League Two manager of the month for August after leading the Gulls to five wins from a possible six matches in all competitions.
This sequence also saw Torquay complete a run of 998 minutes without conceding a league goal, which carried over from last season.
Bucks beat off competition from Shrewsbury Town manager Graham Turner and Rotherham United boss Ronnie Moore to become the first Torquay United manager to win a manager of the month award since Kevin Hodges in February 1998.
It could still be a double celebration for the club if Mark Ellis wins the Player of the Month award for which he has been nominated for.
This sequence also saw Torquay complete a run of 998 minutes without conceding a league goal, which carried over from last season.
Bucks beat off competition from Shrewsbury Town manager Graham Turner and Rotherham United boss Ronnie Moore to become the first Torquay United manager to win a manager of the month award since Kevin Hodges in February 1998.
It could still be a double celebration for the club if Mark Ellis wins the Player of the Month award for which he has been nominated for.
Wednesday 8 September 2010
NEWTON SPURS 0 PLYMOUTH ARGYLE 3
Goals from Bradley Wright-Phillips, Anton Peterlin and Matt Rickard gave Plymouth Argyle a 3-0 victory over Newton Abbot Spurs at the Recreation Ground.
The match, which was staged to mark the unveiling of Spurs' new floodlights, proved to be a useful exercise for the Pilgrims who handed a start to new deadline day signing Stephane Zubar, who featured at right back.
Argyle used the match as an opportunity to give to some of their fringe first teamers, including rookie professional Ryan Leonard whose pass picked out Wright-Phillips for Argyle's first goal of the night on 25 minutes, a taste of first team action.
Wright-Phillips later spurned an opportunity to double his tally for the night on the stroke of half-time when he missed the target from 20-yards.
In the second half, Argyle's extra fitness levels began to make the difference as American midfielder Peterlin scored a second for the Pilgrims in the 54th minute.
On 85th minutes, Argyle extended their lead to three goals when Rickard turned the ball home after Spurs' keeper Neil Comerford had parried his initial effort.
After the match, Plymouth Head Coach Paul Mariner praised the hospitality of Newton Spurs as well the performance of the Pilgrims side.
He said: "The people of Newton Abbot put on a good show for us and they saw some nice football. It could have been difficult game for us, but we were very professional. The development of players was more important than the result, some of the lads have been coming back from injury and needed a run out."
The match, which was staged to mark the unveiling of Spurs' new floodlights, proved to be a useful exercise for the Pilgrims who handed a start to new deadline day signing Stephane Zubar, who featured at right back.
Argyle used the match as an opportunity to give to some of their fringe first teamers, including rookie professional Ryan Leonard whose pass picked out Wright-Phillips for Argyle's first goal of the night on 25 minutes, a taste of first team action.
Wright-Phillips later spurned an opportunity to double his tally for the night on the stroke of half-time when he missed the target from 20-yards.
In the second half, Argyle's extra fitness levels began to make the difference as American midfielder Peterlin scored a second for the Pilgrims in the 54th minute.
On 85th minutes, Argyle extended their lead to three goals when Rickard turned the ball home after Spurs' keeper Neil Comerford had parried his initial effort.
After the match, Plymouth Head Coach Paul Mariner praised the hospitality of Newton Spurs as well the performance of the Pilgrims side.
He said: "The people of Newton Abbot put on a good show for us and they saw some nice football. It could have been difficult game for us, but we were very professional. The development of players was more important than the result, some of the lads have been coming back from injury and needed a run out."
Sunday 5 September 2010
GULLS 100% START COMES TO AN END
Torquay United's 100% start to the season came to an end at Roots Hall against Southend United. The Shrimpers, now managed by former Plymouth Argyle boss Paul Sturrock, won 2-1 with goals from Anthony Grant and Josh Simpson as Chris Zebroski replied for the Gulls.
The Southend side also included a number of former Pilgrims players' in the form of Peter Gilbert, Graham Coughlan and Blair Sturrock.
In the week that saw their Rugby counterparts, Exeter Chiefs, make a winning start to their debut Aviva Premiership campaign, Exeter City recorded their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Charlton Athletic at St James Park.
A 90th minute penalty from Ryan Harley was enough to wrap up the points for the Grecians, who will be buoyed by the news that Paul Tisdale has dismissed rumours linking him with the managerial vacancy at Southampton following the shock departure of Alan Pardew.
Following Yeovil Town's 4-0 defeat at the hands of Notts County, Glovers boss Terry Skiverton aplogised the Somerset side's travelling followers who made the journey to Nottingham via twitter. A brace from Ben Davies and other strikes from Craig Westcarr and Lee Hughes condemned Yeovil to their heaviest defeat of the season. He also thanked them for their support and vowed to turn the corner.
The Southend side also included a number of former Pilgrims players' in the form of Peter Gilbert, Graham Coughlan and Blair Sturrock.
In the week that saw their Rugby counterparts, Exeter Chiefs, make a winning start to their debut Aviva Premiership campaign, Exeter City recorded their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Charlton Athletic at St James Park.
A 90th minute penalty from Ryan Harley was enough to wrap up the points for the Grecians, who will be buoyed by the news that Paul Tisdale has dismissed rumours linking him with the managerial vacancy at Southampton following the shock departure of Alan Pardew.
Following Yeovil Town's 4-0 defeat at the hands of Notts County, Glovers boss Terry Skiverton aplogised the Somerset side's travelling followers who made the journey to Nottingham via twitter. A brace from Ben Davies and other strikes from Craig Westcarr and Lee Hughes condemned Yeovil to their heaviest defeat of the season. He also thanked them for their support and vowed to turn the corner.
Saturday 4 September 2010
ELLIS AND BUCKS IN RUNNING FOR MONTHLY HONOURS
After helping Torquay United make a dream 100% start to their League Two campaign, Gulls defender Mark Ellis has been nominated for the Npower League Two Player of the Month award.
Ellis, who was the subject of a transfer bid from an unnamed League One side during the summer transfer window, has been a cornerstone of a defence that has conceded only one league goal in four games and is one of four nominees for the award. The other three are Rotherham striker Adam Le Fondre, Accrington Stanley keeper Ian Dunbavin and Cheltenham Town's Wesley Thomas.
If successful, Mark will join David Graham and Tony Bedeau who have won the monthly award whilst with Torquay.
Gulls boss Paul Buckle is also in the running for the Manager of the Month prize in what could potentially be an award winning double for Torquay.
Ellis, who was the subject of a transfer bid from an unnamed League One side during the summer transfer window, has been a cornerstone of a defence that has conceded only one league goal in four games and is one of four nominees for the award. The other three are Rotherham striker Adam Le Fondre, Accrington Stanley keeper Ian Dunbavin and Cheltenham Town's Wesley Thomas.
If successful, Mark will join David Graham and Tony Bedeau who have won the monthly award whilst with Torquay.
Gulls boss Paul Buckle is also in the running for the Manager of the Month prize in what could potentially be an award winning double for Torquay.
JOHNSTONE'S PAINT TROPHY DRAW
All three South West side's left in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy have been drawn away in the second round of the competition.
Torquay United's reward for overcoming AFC Bournemouth on penalties is an away trip to another League One outfit in the form of Swindon Town.
Exeter City will also be on their travels again after beating Yeovil Town 3-1 and they will be facing Hereford United, another of the late Adam Stansfield's former sides, at Edgar Street.
Plymouth Argyle start their Johnstone's Trophy away at Cheltenham Town after being awarded a bye through to round 2.
All ties will take place on the week commencing October 4th.
Torquay United's reward for overcoming AFC Bournemouth on penalties is an away trip to another League One outfit in the form of Swindon Town.
Exeter City will also be on their travels again after beating Yeovil Town 3-1 and they will be facing Hereford United, another of the late Adam Stansfield's former sides, at Edgar Street.
Plymouth Argyle start their Johnstone's Trophy away at Cheltenham Town after being awarded a bye through to round 2.
All ties will take place on the week commencing October 4th.
Thursday 2 September 2010
TALKING YEOVIL #3
Shortly after the publication of last week's Talking Yeovil, Shaun MacDonald returned for a fourth loan spell at Huish Park from his parent club, Swansea City.
Also re-joining the Glovers, at the same time, was MacDonald's compatriot Owain Tudur Jones, who himself, was making his second loan move to Yeovil from Norwich City.
Whilst MacDonald has signed until early January, Tudur Jones has rejoined on an initial one month deal and has stated he wishes to remain in Somerset until the New Year. Last season, Tudur Jones only spent one month at Huish Park before returning to parent club Norwich City. However with the chances of him staking a regular claim at Carrow Road looking quite slim, a run in the Glovers side, at least in the short term, will be of greater benefit to him.
Terry Skiverton has also announced that he will be dipping into the loan market again following Yeovil's disappointing Johnstone's Paint Trophy exit at the hands of Exeter City, which saw striker Sam Williams receive a straight card.
The former Aston Villa striker will now be suspended for three matches and this will leave Skivo with only Dean Bowditch and Arsenal loanee Luke Freeman as the only recognised strikers in the Glovers squad and is looking for a temporary replacemnet for Williams.
A trip to Notts County awaits Yeovil on Saturday and a repeat of the performance and result against League One pacesetters Oldham Athletic, who the Glovers drew 0-0 with, would represent a step in the right direction in the short term.
Also re-joining the Glovers, at the same time, was MacDonald's compatriot Owain Tudur Jones, who himself, was making his second loan move to Yeovil from Norwich City.
Whilst MacDonald has signed until early January, Tudur Jones has rejoined on an initial one month deal and has stated he wishes to remain in Somerset until the New Year. Last season, Tudur Jones only spent one month at Huish Park before returning to parent club Norwich City. However with the chances of him staking a regular claim at Carrow Road looking quite slim, a run in the Glovers side, at least in the short term, will be of greater benefit to him.
Terry Skiverton has also announced that he will be dipping into the loan market again following Yeovil's disappointing Johnstone's Paint Trophy exit at the hands of Exeter City, which saw striker Sam Williams receive a straight card.
The former Aston Villa striker will now be suspended for three matches and this will leave Skivo with only Dean Bowditch and Arsenal loanee Luke Freeman as the only recognised strikers in the Glovers squad and is looking for a temporary replacemnet for Williams.
A trip to Notts County awaits Yeovil on Saturday and a repeat of the performance and result against League One pacesetters Oldham Athletic, who the Glovers drew 0-0 with, would represent a step in the right direction in the short term.
Wednesday 1 September 2010
TALKING TORQUAY #3
On the 19th anniversary of the passing of Cyril Knowles, the first manager to lead Torquay United to Wembley, the Gulls started out on another potential road to the home of football with the penalties win over Bournemouth at Dean Court in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.
When Knowles led Torquay to the 1989 Sherpa Van Trophy the idea of a lower league side reaching Wembley was very much a novel occasion. This was in an era when the Play-Off finals were contested on a home and away basis. If the current system had been in place during Knowles' reign, the Gulls first visit to Wembley would have come a year earlier as they lost out to Swansea 5-4 on aggregate in the Division Four final.
Since 1989, Torquay have never come close to replicating their run to the final, which saw them beat several 'old' Division Three (League One in today's money) sides including Brentford, Bristol Rovers and a Steve Bull inspired Wolves side in the Southern Area Final over two legs.
Under current manager Paul Buckle, the Gulls have experienced successful runs in cup competitions after reaching the FA Trophy final in their first season in the Blue Square Premier and the FA Cup Fourth Round in the following campaign.
With English football currently in the grip of the global credit crunch, a run to Wembley would certainly boost the club's coffers. However with Torquay currently lying top of League Two with an 100% record, Paul Buckle will not be looking to jeopardise a promotion challenge with a run to Wembley.
Given the choice, many supporters would also choose promotion over a run to Wembley. But with the Gulls on a more stable footing off the pitch compared to a lot of lower league sides and a side that includes several substitutes many of their rivals would love to name in their first elevens, it is not inconceivable that Torquay could be competitive on both fronts.
When Knowles led Torquay to the 1989 Sherpa Van Trophy the idea of a lower league side reaching Wembley was very much a novel occasion. This was in an era when the Play-Off finals were contested on a home and away basis. If the current system had been in place during Knowles' reign, the Gulls first visit to Wembley would have come a year earlier as they lost out to Swansea 5-4 on aggregate in the Division Four final.
Since 1989, Torquay have never come close to replicating their run to the final, which saw them beat several 'old' Division Three (League One in today's money) sides including Brentford, Bristol Rovers and a Steve Bull inspired Wolves side in the Southern Area Final over two legs.
Under current manager Paul Buckle, the Gulls have experienced successful runs in cup competitions after reaching the FA Trophy final in their first season in the Blue Square Premier and the FA Cup Fourth Round in the following campaign.
With English football currently in the grip of the global credit crunch, a run to Wembley would certainly boost the club's coffers. However with Torquay currently lying top of League Two with an 100% record, Paul Buckle will not be looking to jeopardise a promotion challenge with a run to Wembley.
Given the choice, many supporters would also choose promotion over a run to Wembley. But with the Gulls on a more stable footing off the pitch compared to a lot of lower league sides and a side that includes several substitutes many of their rivals would love to name in their first elevens, it is not inconceivable that Torquay could be competitive on both fronts.
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