Exeter City will join Yeovil Town in the second round of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy after defeating Plymouth Argyle on penalties.
The fourth meeting between the two Devon rivals in the space ended a goal apiece after 90 minutes after Argyle winger Luke Daley cancelled out James Dunne's opener for the Grecians.
This ensured that the tie would go to penalties and Daniel Nardiello, David Noble and Dunne successfully converted their spot-kicks to ensure the Grecians' passage to the next round. Goalkeeper Lenny Pidgeley also emerged as a hero for Exeter, saving penalties from Argyle captain Carl Fletcher and Tom Hitchcock. Young Grecians' striker Chris Shepherd also had his penalty saved by Pilgrims' keeper Romain Larrieu.
Elsewhere, Torquay United also bowed out of the competition as they were beaten 2-1 by Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road. Goals from Jimmy Spencer and Jeff Goulding set the Robins on their way before Lloyd Macklin pulled one back for the Gulls.
Wednesday 31 August 2011
Friday 26 August 2011
DEAL AGREED FOR ARGYLE
The future of Plymouth Argyle looks to have been secured following the announcement that Bishop International Ltd has secured the necessary funding to complete the purchase of the club.
A statement on the club's official website said: "The joint administrators of Plymouth Argyle Football Company Limited (in administration) are satisfied that Bishop International Limited has secured the necessary funding and everything is agreed between the numerous parties.
"Solicitors are now working to finalise the documentation and complete the sale to Bishop International Limited/Plymouth Argyle (125) Limited.
Brendan Guilfoyle said: "This has been a complex deal involving a dozen stakeholders. I am very grateful for the assistance I have received from everyone involved in the sale.
"I can now look forward to the new club obtaining the share from the Football League and retaining their status as a Football League member club."
The deal is now awaiting the final approval from the Football League.
A statement on the club's official website said: "The joint administrators of Plymouth Argyle Football Company Limited (in administration) are satisfied that Bishop International Limited has secured the necessary funding and everything is agreed between the numerous parties.
"Solicitors are now working to finalise the documentation and complete the sale to Bishop International Limited/Plymouth Argyle (125) Limited.
Brendan Guilfoyle said: "This has been a complex deal involving a dozen stakeholders. I am very grateful for the assistance I have received from everyone involved in the sale.
"I can now look forward to the new club obtaining the share from the Football League and retaining their status as a Football League member club."
The deal is now awaiting the final approval from the Football League.
KEE JOINS BURTON
Torquay United have sold striker Billy Kee to League Two rivals Burton Albion after it was revealed that he had been suffering from homesickness.
Kee had raised the issue with Gulls' boss Martin Ling who decided it was best for Billy to leave Plainmoor for a club nearer to his hometown, Leicester, and a transfer to Burton provided an ideal solution for both parties.
"He came to see me last week and said that he was massively homesick," said Ling. "He had spoken about the situation to players within the club before and also to Paul Buckle and the staff from last year.
"It was not a case of this being the first time and I told Billy that I didn't want him to go. I asked him to think about it for a few days and he did that, but still felt that he wanted go.
"It was down to location and location only. The only way to cure homesickness is to go home. Some people cope ok and I remember moving away myself at 16, and for the first three months, the pain of homesickness was immense.
"I managed to get through it but if a player is not happy in his personal life, you won't get the best out of him on the pitch. I feel that has been the case with Billy and he has said as much himself.
"The situation was made worse this year by going home for the summer and some of the players have said it was always a problem for Billy.
"We have found a solution in Burton Albion. It is disappointing to lose Billy but it is no good keeping somebody against their will.
"I'm happy with the money we've received. There were a couple of clubs in the right area of the country that were interested in Billy.
"It is fair to say that Billy Bodin has come in as a direct replacement for Billy Kee. We told Billy Kee that we could not let him go until we had a replacement secured.
"The process has been very quick because Billy Kee is a good player and we wish him all the very best with Burton."
During his time at Plainmoor, Billy scored ten goals in 54 appearances. He also helped the Gulls to reach the League Two Play-Off final and the fourth round of the FA Cup last season.
In addition to this, Billy also represented Northern Ireland twice at Under-21 level .
Kee had raised the issue with Gulls' boss Martin Ling who decided it was best for Billy to leave Plainmoor for a club nearer to his hometown, Leicester, and a transfer to Burton provided an ideal solution for both parties.
"He came to see me last week and said that he was massively homesick," said Ling. "He had spoken about the situation to players within the club before and also to Paul Buckle and the staff from last year.
"It was not a case of this being the first time and I told Billy that I didn't want him to go. I asked him to think about it for a few days and he did that, but still felt that he wanted go.
"It was down to location and location only. The only way to cure homesickness is to go home. Some people cope ok and I remember moving away myself at 16, and for the first three months, the pain of homesickness was immense.
"I managed to get through it but if a player is not happy in his personal life, you won't get the best out of him on the pitch. I feel that has been the case with Billy and he has said as much himself.
"The situation was made worse this year by going home for the summer and some of the players have said it was always a problem for Billy.
"We have found a solution in Burton Albion. It is disappointing to lose Billy but it is no good keeping somebody against their will.
"I'm happy with the money we've received. There were a couple of clubs in the right area of the country that were interested in Billy.
"It is fair to say that Billy Bodin has come in as a direct replacement for Billy Kee. We told Billy Kee that we could not let him go until we had a replacement secured.
"The process has been very quick because Billy Kee is a good player and we wish him all the very best with Burton."
During his time at Plainmoor, Billy scored ten goals in 54 appearances. He also helped the Gulls to reach the League Two Play-Off final and the fourth round of the FA Cup last season.
In addition to this, Billy also represented Northern Ireland twice at Under-21 level .
TORQUAY LOAN BODIN
Torquay United manager Martin Ling has made his first foray into the loan market since taking over at Plainmoor to bring in Billy Bodin from Swindon Town.
Billy, the son of former Swindon and Wales full back Paul Bodin, has made three starts for the Robins this season, but, following an influx of new signings by Swindon manager Paolo Di Canio, he has fallen down the pecking order at the County Ground.
"Obviously know his Dad very well and I have watched Billy for many years," said Ling.
"He is a precocious talent, who needs first-team action.
"He started Swindon's first three games of this season and I think that proves to everyone the quality he has and the talent he is.
"He has dropped down the pecking order because they have made some big-name signings down at Swindon and we can give him the platform to express that talent."
Billy, who has been capped by Wales at Under-18 and Under-21 level, goes straight into the squad for the Gulls' trip to Dagenham and Redbridge and will wear the Number 15 shirt.
His loan deal runs until January 8th.
As well as Ling, Billy will be working alongside another of his dad's former teammates at Plainmoor in the form of Gulls' assistant manager Shaun Taylor who also played alongside Paul Bodin at Swindon during the early 1990's.
Billy, the son of former Swindon and Wales full back Paul Bodin, has made three starts for the Robins this season, but, following an influx of new signings by Swindon manager Paolo Di Canio, he has fallen down the pecking order at the County Ground.
"Obviously know his Dad very well and I have watched Billy for many years," said Ling.
"He is a precocious talent, who needs first-team action.
"He started Swindon's first three games of this season and I think that proves to everyone the quality he has and the talent he is.
"He has dropped down the pecking order because they have made some big-name signings down at Swindon and we can give him the platform to express that talent."
Billy, who has been capped by Wales at Under-18 and Under-21 level, goes straight into the squad for the Gulls' trip to Dagenham and Redbridge and will wear the Number 15 shirt.
His loan deal runs until January 8th.
As well as Ling, Billy will be working alongside another of his dad's former teammates at Plainmoor in the form of Gulls' assistant manager Shaun Taylor who also played alongside Paul Bodin at Swindon during the early 1990's.
FINAL DEADLINE LOOMS FOR ARGYLE
Today is the final deadline for the takeover deal of Plymouth Argyle with Bishop International Ltd, an offshore company led by Truro City Chairman Kevin Heaney, to be completed.
The club's administrators have stated that they will turn the back on the deal, which will see former Leeds United and Cardiff City Chairman Peter Ridsdale buy the club from Bishop International who will then become the Pilgrims' landlords.
An alternative bid led by Devon-based Businessman James Brent remains in place should the deal with Bishop International fail, but fears remain as Brent maybe faced with a tight deadline to complete the takeover.
The club's administrators have stated that they will turn the back on the deal, which will see former Leeds United and Cardiff City Chairman Peter Ridsdale buy the club from Bishop International who will then become the Pilgrims' landlords.
An alternative bid led by Devon-based Businessman James Brent remains in place should the deal with Bishop International fail, but fears remain as Brent maybe faced with a tight deadline to complete the takeover.
GRECIANS BOW OUT DESPITE SPIRITED PERFORMANCE
Exeter City have a good account of themselves against Premiership giants Liverpool despite going down to defeat.
Goals from Luis Suarez, Maxi Rodriguez and Andy Carroll proved to be enough to seal victory for the Reds before Daniel Nardiello scored a late consolation from the penalty spot for the Grecians.
Goals from Luis Suarez, Maxi Rodriguez and Andy Carroll proved to be enough to seal victory for the Reds before Daniel Nardiello scored a late consolation from the penalty spot for the Grecians.
Tuesday 23 August 2011
GRECIANS AWAIT REDS TEST
Exeter City go into their Carling Cup second round tie with Premiership giants Liverpool dreaming of an upset.
In the past ten years, the Grecians have experienced a number of tremendous highs, which have included drawing with Manchester United in the FA Cup Third Round in the 2004-05 season and winning back-to-back promotions under Paul Tisdale.
This clash will provide a welcome boost to the club's finances and it will also give Tisdale the opportunity to pit his managerial wits against Kenny Dalglish.
It has also been confirmed that the tie, which is also being shown live on Sky TV, is a sell-out.
Tommorrow's meeting will be the fifth time the two sides have played in each other and their fourth meeting in the League Cup, with Liverpool winning each of those encounters.
The Grecians last knocked out top-flight opposition from the competition in 1978 when they defeated Bolton Wanderers in the third round. Ironically 1978 was also the year the Reds were last beaten in the second round when they bowed out to Sheffield United.
Dalglish's men will also be hoping lightning doesn't strike twice as they were eliminated from the competition by lower league opposition last season when Northampton Town defeated them on penalties in the third round, a fact that Paul Tisdale will no doubt be keen to remind his players of.
In the past ten years, the Grecians have experienced a number of tremendous highs, which have included drawing with Manchester United in the FA Cup Third Round in the 2004-05 season and winning back-to-back promotions under Paul Tisdale.
This clash will provide a welcome boost to the club's finances and it will also give Tisdale the opportunity to pit his managerial wits against Kenny Dalglish.
It has also been confirmed that the tie, which is also being shown live on Sky TV, is a sell-out.
Tommorrow's meeting will be the fifth time the two sides have played in each other and their fourth meeting in the League Cup, with Liverpool winning each of those encounters.
The Grecians last knocked out top-flight opposition from the competition in 1978 when they defeated Bolton Wanderers in the third round. Ironically 1978 was also the year the Reds were last beaten in the second round when they bowed out to Sheffield United.
Dalglish's men will also be hoping lightning doesn't strike twice as they were eliminated from the competition by lower league opposition last season when Northampton Town defeated them on penalties in the third round, a fact that Paul Tisdale will no doubt be keen to remind his players of.
FEENEY NAMED IN NORTHERN IRELAND SQUAD
Plymouth Argyle striker Warren Feeney has been named in Nigel Worthington's Northern Ireland squad for their upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Serbia and Estonia on September 2nd and 6th.
Feeney, who has been capped 42 times by the province and scored five goals, will become the third Argyle player to have represented Northern Ireland whilst at Home Park, joining Tony Capaldi and Rory Patterson.
His selection will mean he is set to miss the Pilgrims' trip to Burton Albion on September 3rd.
He will be joined in the squad by former Pilgrims' loanee Craig Cathcart and ex Torquay United striker Jamie Ward.
Northern Ireland squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Maik Taylor (unattached), Lee Camp (Nottingham Forest), Alan Mannus (St Johnstone)
Defenders: Jonathan Evans (Manchester United), Ryan McGivern (Manchester City - on loan at Crystal Palace), Craig Cathcart (Blackpool), Gareth McAuley (West Bromwich Albion), Aaron Hughes (Fulham), Lee Hodson (Watford)
Midfielders: Chris Baird (Fulham), Grant McCann (Peterborough United), Niall McGinn (Celtic - on loan at Brentford), Jonny Gorman (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Corry Evans (Hull City), Steven Davis (Rangers), Sammy Clingan (Coventry City), Pat McCourt (Celtic), Chris Brunt (West Bromwich Albion)
Forwards: Warren Feeney (Plymouth Argyle), David Healy (Rangers), Jamie Ward (Derby County), Kyle Lafferty (Rangers), Josh McQuoid (Millwall)
Feeney, who has been capped 42 times by the province and scored five goals, will become the third Argyle player to have represented Northern Ireland whilst at Home Park, joining Tony Capaldi and Rory Patterson.
His selection will mean he is set to miss the Pilgrims' trip to Burton Albion on September 3rd.
He will be joined in the squad by former Pilgrims' loanee Craig Cathcart and ex Torquay United striker Jamie Ward.
Northern Ireland squad in full:
Goalkeepers: Maik Taylor (unattached), Lee Camp (Nottingham Forest), Alan Mannus (St Johnstone)
Defenders: Jonathan Evans (Manchester United), Ryan McGivern (Manchester City - on loan at Crystal Palace), Craig Cathcart (Blackpool), Gareth McAuley (West Bromwich Albion), Aaron Hughes (Fulham), Lee Hodson (Watford)
Midfielders: Chris Baird (Fulham), Grant McCann (Peterborough United), Niall McGinn (Celtic - on loan at Brentford), Jonny Gorman (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Corry Evans (Hull City), Steven Davis (Rangers), Sammy Clingan (Coventry City), Pat McCourt (Celtic), Chris Brunt (West Bromwich Albion)
Forwards: Warren Feeney (Plymouth Argyle), David Healy (Rangers), Jamie Ward (Derby County), Kyle Lafferty (Rangers), Josh McQuoid (Millwall)
Friday 19 August 2011
O'KANE POISED FOR REPUBLIC SWITCH
Torquay United midfielder Eunan O'Kane is poised to switch his registration from Northern Ireland to the Republic of Ireland in an international 'transfer'.
O'Kane, who hails from County Londonderry, has appeared for the North at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 levels and is one of only three Gulls players to have represented one of the home nations at senior or Under-21 level.
The former Everton starlet is one of several players to switch his international allegiance from Northern Ireland to Eire in recent years.
Amongst these are Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson and O'Kane's former Everton teammate Shane Duffy.
Once the paperwork has been completed, O'Kane should be available for selection by Eire for the next round of qualifiers. His new teammates will include ex Gulls loanee Ronan Murray and former Plymouth Argyle striker Joe Mason.
O'Kane, who hails from County Londonderry, has appeared for the North at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-21 levels and is one of only three Gulls players to have represented one of the home nations at senior or Under-21 level.
The former Everton starlet is one of several players to switch his international allegiance from Northern Ireland to Eire in recent years.
Amongst these are Manchester United midfielder Darron Gibson and O'Kane's former Everton teammate Shane Duffy.
Once the paperwork has been completed, O'Kane should be available for selection by Eire for the next round of qualifiers. His new teammates will include ex Gulls loanee Ronan Murray and former Plymouth Argyle striker Joe Mason.
Monday 15 August 2011
CAULKER IN LINE FOR PREMIERSHIP DEBUT
Former Yeovil Town loanee Steven Caulker is set to make his debut for Premiership new boys Swamsea City against big spending Manchester City tonight.
Caulker, 19, made 44 appearances for the Glovers during the 2009-10 after arriving at Huish Park on a youth loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
He went on to virtually sweep the board when Yeovil's Player of the Year awards were handed out at the end of the campaign before he moved on loan to Bristol City in the 2010-11 season.
Before his arrival at Ashton Gate, Caulker had already made his debut for Spurs in a Carling Cup tie against Arsenal and he earned praise from Harry Redknapp for his performance.
His footballing education continued with the Robins as he earned rave reviews before injury curtailed his campaign.
During this period, he also received his first England Under-21 cap in a friendly against Germany Under-21s.
Tonight will see him pit his wits against an attack which could feature names such as Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli and Sergio Aguero.
However, it wouldn't come as a great surprise to those who witnessed his early development at Huish Park if the homegrown youngster was to excel against the 'big name superstars'.
Caulker, 19, made 44 appearances for the Glovers during the 2009-10 after arriving at Huish Park on a youth loan from Tottenham Hotspur.
He went on to virtually sweep the board when Yeovil's Player of the Year awards were handed out at the end of the campaign before he moved on loan to Bristol City in the 2010-11 season.
Before his arrival at Ashton Gate, Caulker had already made his debut for Spurs in a Carling Cup tie against Arsenal and he earned praise from Harry Redknapp for his performance.
His footballing education continued with the Robins as he earned rave reviews before injury curtailed his campaign.
During this period, he also received his first England Under-21 cap in a friendly against Germany Under-21s.
Tonight will see him pit his wits against an attack which could feature names such as Edin Dzeko, Mario Balotelli and Sergio Aguero.
However, it wouldn't come as a great surprise to those who witnessed his early development at Huish Park if the homegrown youngster was to excel against the 'big name superstars'.
Sunday 14 August 2011
ARGYLE FUTURE REMAINS ON CLIFF EDGE
The future of Plymouth Argyle remains "on a cliff edge" as Administrator Brendan Guilfoyle aims to resolve the sale of the League Two side.
Mr Guilfoyle has issued the club's preferred bidder, Bishop International-an offshore company led by Truro City Chairman Kevin Heaney until Tuesday to prove that they have the necessary funding to complete the purchase of the club.
Once the deal has been finalised, the club will then be sold to the Pilgrims' current acting Chairman Peter Ridsdale with Mr Heaney retaining ownership of Home Park, through the company, thus becoming the club's landlord.
However, fans have signed a 3,000 strong petition begging Mr Guilfoyle to consider an alternative bid from Devon entrepreneur James Brent should Mr Heaney fail to guarantee the necessary funding.
Nevertheless, the deal with Bishop International Ltd will still need to be approved by the Football League, who must be satisfied that the deal does not give Mr Heaney power over two football clubs.
One person who will be keen to see the sale of the club completed is Argyle boss Peter Reid, who will undoubtedly will be keen to strengthen his side after they went down to a 4-1 defeat at the hands of current League Two leaders Rotherham United, a result that leaves the Pilgrims fourth from bottom of the league.
Mr Guilfoyle has issued the club's preferred bidder, Bishop International-an offshore company led by Truro City Chairman Kevin Heaney until Tuesday to prove that they have the necessary funding to complete the purchase of the club.
Once the deal has been finalised, the club will then be sold to the Pilgrims' current acting Chairman Peter Ridsdale with Mr Heaney retaining ownership of Home Park, through the company, thus becoming the club's landlord.
However, fans have signed a 3,000 strong petition begging Mr Guilfoyle to consider an alternative bid from Devon entrepreneur James Brent should Mr Heaney fail to guarantee the necessary funding.
Nevertheless, the deal with Bishop International Ltd will still need to be approved by the Football League, who must be satisfied that the deal does not give Mr Heaney power over two football clubs.
One person who will be keen to see the sale of the club completed is Argyle boss Peter Reid, who will undoubtedly will be keen to strengthen his side after they went down to a 4-1 defeat at the hands of current League Two leaders Rotherham United, a result that leaves the Pilgrims fourth from bottom of the league.
HOWE NETS WINNER AGAINST ROVERS
A penalty from Rene Howe secured victory in the 'old boys' reunion at the Memorial Stadium between Torquay United and Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium.
Lining up for the Pirates, under the guidance of ex Torquay manager Paul Buckle and his assistant Shaun North, were Scott Bevan, Craig Stanley, Mustapha Carayol, Chris Zebroski and Jo Kuffour, whilst ex Gas loanee Howe started for the Gulls.
Howe played 12 times for the Pirates during the 2010-11 season and scored one goal during a loan stint from his former club, Peterborough United.
It was Torquay who got off to the brighter start as Kenyan international Taiwo Atieno opened for the Gulls before they added a second from the penalty spot, after Atieno was brought down by Bevan, and Howe slotted home what turned out to be the winner for Martin Ling's men.
Rovers pulled a goal back through Byron Anthony, but they were unable to find an equaliser as Ling came out on top against his predecessor, Buckle.
Lining up for the Pirates, under the guidance of ex Torquay manager Paul Buckle and his assistant Shaun North, were Scott Bevan, Craig Stanley, Mustapha Carayol, Chris Zebroski and Jo Kuffour, whilst ex Gas loanee Howe started for the Gulls.
Howe played 12 times for the Pirates during the 2010-11 season and scored one goal during a loan stint from his former club, Peterborough United.
It was Torquay who got off to the brighter start as Kenyan international Taiwo Atieno opened for the Gulls before they added a second from the penalty spot, after Atieno was brought down by Bevan, and Howe slotted home what turned out to be the winner for Martin Ling's men.
Rovers pulled a goal back through Byron Anthony, but they were unable to find an equaliser as Ling came out on top against his predecessor, Buckle.
Friday 12 August 2011
GULLS TO FACE FAMILIAR FACES
Tomorrow's meeting between Torquay United and Bristol Rovers will be the first encounter between current Gulls' boss Martin Ling and his predecessor Paul Buckle.
Ling was appointed as Buckle's successor during the close season after he made the move to the Memorial Stadium, following a season in which he led Torquay to the League Two Play-Off final where they were beaten by Stevenage.
Upon taking charge of the Pirates, Buckle has surrounded himself with a number of familiar faces, including his assistant Shaun North, Scott Bevan and Chris Zebroski who all followed him directly from Plainmoor as well as former Gulls' loanee Craig Stanley, whom Buckle recruited from Morecambe.
Ex Torquay winger Mustapha Carayol linked up with Buckle again after spending a season with Lincoln City.
Amongst the players that Buckle inherited is former Torquay striker Jo Kuffour who arrived at Plainmoor as an unknown quantity when Leroy Rosenior signed him in 2002. He then went on spend four years at with the Gulls, during which time he helped Torquay to win automatic promotion from Division Three in 2004.
Lining up for the Gulls is Rene Howe, who was on loan at the Memorial Stadium last season. After marking his debut last week against Burton Albion with a goal, he will be looking to add to his tally against the Pirates.
Overall, it is a hugely important game for both sides, which will see a number of former teammates face each other.
Ling was appointed as Buckle's successor during the close season after he made the move to the Memorial Stadium, following a season in which he led Torquay to the League Two Play-Off final where they were beaten by Stevenage.
Upon taking charge of the Pirates, Buckle has surrounded himself with a number of familiar faces, including his assistant Shaun North, Scott Bevan and Chris Zebroski who all followed him directly from Plainmoor as well as former Gulls' loanee Craig Stanley, whom Buckle recruited from Morecambe.
Ex Torquay winger Mustapha Carayol linked up with Buckle again after spending a season with Lincoln City.
Amongst the players that Buckle inherited is former Torquay striker Jo Kuffour who arrived at Plainmoor as an unknown quantity when Leroy Rosenior signed him in 2002. He then went on spend four years at with the Gulls, during which time he helped Torquay to win automatic promotion from Division Three in 2004.
Lining up for the Gulls is Rene Howe, who was on loan at the Memorial Stadium last season. After marking his debut last week against Burton Albion with a goal, he will be looking to add to his tally against the Pirates.
Overall, it is a hugely important game for both sides, which will see a number of former teammates face each other.
EXETER SECURE DREAM TIE WITH REDS
Exeter City's reward for knocking Yeovil Town out of the Carling Cup is a mouthwatering second round home tie with Premiership giants Liverpool.
Goals from Guilleum Bauza and Chris Shepherd secured the Grecians a 2-0 victory over the Glovers to set up for their fixture with the Reds.
It was the first time that Exeter had reached the second round since 1993 and the tie represents another milestone in the progress that they have made under the reign of manager Paul Tisdale.
The Grecians have played Liverpool three times in the competition previously, once in the 1979-80 season and twice in the 1981-82 campaign with the Reds winning on each of those occasions.
Goals from Guilleum Bauza and Chris Shepherd secured the Grecians a 2-0 victory over the Glovers to set up for their fixture with the Reds.
It was the first time that Exeter had reached the second round since 1993 and the tie represents another milestone in the progress that they have made under the reign of manager Paul Tisdale.
The Grecians have played Liverpool three times in the competition previously, once in the 1979-80 season and twice in the 1981-82 campaign with the Reds winning on each of those occasions.
Wednesday 10 August 2011
BILLY UNLOCKS FAROES' DEFENCE WITH HAT TRICK
Torquay United striker Billy Kee was the star of the show for Northern Ireland's Under-21 as he netted a hat trick against the Faroe Island counterparts.
Kee, who also captained the side, found the back of the net three times before teammate Josh Magennis added a fourth as Northern Ireland ran out as 4-0 winners in their 2013 European Championship qualifier.
It was the second time that Kee has appeared for the province's Under-21 side since he arrived at Plainmoor . He was selected for a friendly against Scotland in November 2010 alongside his Gulls' colleague Eunan O'Kane.
Billy is one of only three Torquay United contracted players to have been selected for the Home Nations at senior or Under-21 level. The other two are O'Kane and Alex Lawless, who was capped by Wales' Under-21 side during the 2005-06 season.
Kee, who also captained the side, found the back of the net three times before teammate Josh Magennis added a fourth as Northern Ireland ran out as 4-0 winners in their 2013 European Championship qualifier.
It was the second time that Kee has appeared for the province's Under-21 side since he arrived at Plainmoor . He was selected for a friendly against Scotland in November 2010 alongside his Gulls' colleague Eunan O'Kane.
Billy is one of only three Torquay United contracted players to have been selected for the Home Nations at senior or Under-21 level. The other two are O'Kane and Alex Lawless, who was capped by Wales' Under-21 side during the 2005-06 season.
REMEMBERING STANNO ONE YEAR ON
To mark the first anniversary of the untimely death of Exeter City striker Adam Stansfield from Bowel Cancer, we will look back at his career with both the Grecians and Yeovil Town.
The Glovers (2001-2004)
Adam joined Yeovil Town in November 2001 after he was spotted by the then Glovers’ manager Gary Johnson playing for Western League side Elmore against Yeovil reserves.
This was just reward for his persistence after he had previously been for trials with Exeter City, Torquay United and Wolves with no success.
After opening his account for the Glovers against Northwich Victoria in December, Adam soon established himself as a first team regular.
He scored in every round of Yeovil’s run to the final of the 2002 FA Trophy, including a brace against Tiverton Town in the third round, and was on target in their two goal victory over Stevenage Borough in the Final at Villa Park.
The following season saw Adam miss much of the Glovers’ Conference title winning campaign and he only made one appearance.
In the Glovers’ debut league season, the 2003-04 campaign, Adam made 32 appearances and scored six goals before he was released during the following summer.
The Grecians (2006-2010)
On his release from Yeovil Town, Adam returned to the Conference to join Hereford United.
He spent two years at Edgar Street and helped the Bulls return to the Football League during that time. However, in 2006, Adam opted to return ‘home’ to join Exeter City.
Whilst he was at St James’ Park, the Grecians experienced one of the successful eras in their history.
They reached the Conference Play-Off final in 2007, where they were defeated by Morecambe 2-1. Adam played a key role in helping Exeter reach the final as he netted a brace in their final regular league game of the season against Southport, which sealed the Grecians’ involvement in the Play-Offs.
The following season, Exeter went one better as they beat Cambridge United 1-0 in the final at Wembley to secure their return to the Football League.
Winning promotion gave Adam a second shot at playing in the Football League. It was an opportunity he grabbed with both hands as he scored ten goals in 37 appearances, which made him Exeter’s top scorer, as the Grecians won promotion from League Two at the first time of asking.
Adam also played a key role in helping Exeter to consolidate their League One status, scoring seven goals in 27 appearances.
He was also on target against Yeovil Town on April 16th 2010, but, ever the professional, he refused to celebrate scoring against the team who gave him his first taste of professional football.
The 2009-10 campaign ended prematurely for Adam in March 2010 after he was struck down with a mysterious stomach illness, which was later diagnosed as Bowel Cancer.
Sadly for Adam, Bowel Cancer proved to be too difficult opponent to overcome as he passed away on August 10th at the age of 31.
During his four years at St James Park, Adam scored 39 goals in 150 appearances.
Following his death, Exeter City have retired their Number Nine shirt in Adam’s memory and a charity has also been set up in his memory.
The Adam Stansfield Foundation aims to promote the community participation in healthy recreation for young people in Devon, Herefordshire and Somerset as well as promoting and raising the awareness of Bowel Cancer.
The Glovers (2001-2004)
Adam joined Yeovil Town in November 2001 after he was spotted by the then Glovers’ manager Gary Johnson playing for Western League side Elmore against Yeovil reserves.
This was just reward for his persistence after he had previously been for trials with Exeter City, Torquay United and Wolves with no success.
After opening his account for the Glovers against Northwich Victoria in December, Adam soon established himself as a first team regular.
He scored in every round of Yeovil’s run to the final of the 2002 FA Trophy, including a brace against Tiverton Town in the third round, and was on target in their two goal victory over Stevenage Borough in the Final at Villa Park.
The following season saw Adam miss much of the Glovers’ Conference title winning campaign and he only made one appearance.
In the Glovers’ debut league season, the 2003-04 campaign, Adam made 32 appearances and scored six goals before he was released during the following summer.
The Grecians (2006-2010)
On his release from Yeovil Town, Adam returned to the Conference to join Hereford United.
He spent two years at Edgar Street and helped the Bulls return to the Football League during that time. However, in 2006, Adam opted to return ‘home’ to join Exeter City.
Whilst he was at St James’ Park, the Grecians experienced one of the successful eras in their history.
They reached the Conference Play-Off final in 2007, where they were defeated by Morecambe 2-1. Adam played a key role in helping Exeter reach the final as he netted a brace in their final regular league game of the season against Southport, which sealed the Grecians’ involvement in the Play-Offs.
The following season, Exeter went one better as they beat Cambridge United 1-0 in the final at Wembley to secure their return to the Football League.
Winning promotion gave Adam a second shot at playing in the Football League. It was an opportunity he grabbed with both hands as he scored ten goals in 37 appearances, which made him Exeter’s top scorer, as the Grecians won promotion from League Two at the first time of asking.
Adam also played a key role in helping Exeter to consolidate their League One status, scoring seven goals in 27 appearances.
He was also on target against Yeovil Town on April 16th 2010, but, ever the professional, he refused to celebrate scoring against the team who gave him his first taste of professional football.
The 2009-10 campaign ended prematurely for Adam in March 2010 after he was struck down with a mysterious stomach illness, which was later diagnosed as Bowel Cancer.
Sadly for Adam, Bowel Cancer proved to be too difficult opponent to overcome as he passed away on August 10th at the age of 31.
During his four years at St James Park, Adam scored 39 goals in 150 appearances.
Following his death, Exeter City have retired their Number Nine shirt in Adam’s memory and a charity has also been set up in his memory.
The Adam Stansfield Foundation aims to promote the community participation in healthy recreation for young people in Devon, Herefordshire and Somerset as well as promoting and raising the awareness of Bowel Cancer.
Tuesday 9 August 2011
CARLING CUP PREVIEW 2011-12
This year's Carling Cup first round draw will see at least one South West club in the hat for the next stage after Exeter City and Yeovil Town were paired together.
Ironically, the tie comes almost a year to the day of the untimely death of former Glovers' and Grecians' striker Adam Stansfield from Bowel Cancer.
Both sides go into the game after experiencing varied fortunes on the opening day of the season as Exeter drew with Stevenage and Yeovil were beaten by Brentford.
Plymouth Argyle and Torquay United will need to overcome Championship opposition to reach the second round. The Pilgrims, who fielded nine debutants against Shrewsbury Town on Saturday, host Millwall and Home Park, whilst Torquay travel to Southampton.
The Gulls will be without striker Billy Kee who is on international duty with the Northern Ireland Under-21 squad.
Ironically, the tie comes almost a year to the day of the untimely death of former Glovers' and Grecians' striker Adam Stansfield from Bowel Cancer.
Both sides go into the game after experiencing varied fortunes on the opening day of the season as Exeter drew with Stevenage and Yeovil were beaten by Brentford.
Plymouth Argyle and Torquay United will need to overcome Championship opposition to reach the second round. The Pilgrims, who fielded nine debutants against Shrewsbury Town on Saturday, host Millwall and Home Park, whilst Torquay travel to Southampton.
The Gulls will be without striker Billy Kee who is on international duty with the Northern Ireland Under-21 squad.
Saturday 6 August 2011
SEASON PREVIEW # PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
Plymouth Argyle
Ins: Robbie Williams (Oldham Athletic), Luke Daley (Norwich City), Durrell Berry (Aston Villa), Tom Hitchcock (Blackburn Rovers) Loan, Jake Cole (QPR), Ladji Soukouna (Creteil), Conor Hourihane (Ipswich Town), Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough) Loan), Warren Feeney (Oldham Athletic)
Outs: Steven MacLean, Bondz N'gala & Rory Fallon (Yeovil Town), Chris Clark & Kari Arnason (Aberdeen), Yala Bolasie (Bristol City), Damien Johnson (Huddersfield Town) Loan, Joe Mason (Cardiff City), Luke Summerfield (Cheltenham Town), Anton Peterlin (Walsall), Karl Duguid (Colchester United), Ryan Leonard (Southend United), Rory Patterson (Linfield) Season Long Loan, Jim Paterson, Marcel Seip, Kristzian Timar, Liam Head
Plymouth Argyle will begin the 2011-12 season in Administration as Administrator Brendan Guilfoyle awaits to complete a deal with Bishop International that will see Peter Ridsdale become Chairman.
Unsurprisingly there have been a number of departures from Home Park during the close season as a number of players' contracts have come to an end.
Also amongst those departing were the highly talented Yala Bolasie and Joe Mason to Bristol City and Cardiff City respectively, Bolasie left for an undisclosed fee, whilst Mason earned the Pilgrims a valuable £250,000.
Manager Peter Reid has done his best to build a squad capable of competing in League Two and has drafted in a host of new faces, including Northern Ireland international Warren Feeney and highly promising loanees Tom Hitchcock and Ben Gibson, from Blackburn and Middlesbrough respectively, and goalkeeper Jake Cole who will provide some competition for long serving keeper Romain Larrieu.
Perhaps more importantly, Reid has been able to retain the services of skipper Carl Fletcher and keep defender Stephane Zubar, who signed a two-year deal in the close season. Highly rated Curtis Nelson also remains a Pilgrim- for the time being at least.
Player to Watch: Carl Fletcher
In a season in which he was forced to go without pay for long periods, Argyle skipper Carl Fletcher conducted himself impeccably both on and off the field. Earlier in his career, he won promotion from League Two with Bournemouth in the 2002-03 season and his experience of that campaign could prove invaluable as Peter Reid attempts to lead what is a young Argyle side back into League One.
Ins: Robbie Williams (Oldham Athletic), Luke Daley (Norwich City), Durrell Berry (Aston Villa), Tom Hitchcock (Blackburn Rovers) Loan, Jake Cole (QPR), Ladji Soukouna (Creteil), Conor Hourihane (Ipswich Town), Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough) Loan), Warren Feeney (Oldham Athletic)
Outs: Steven MacLean, Bondz N'gala & Rory Fallon (Yeovil Town), Chris Clark & Kari Arnason (Aberdeen), Yala Bolasie (Bristol City), Damien Johnson (Huddersfield Town) Loan, Joe Mason (Cardiff City), Luke Summerfield (Cheltenham Town), Anton Peterlin (Walsall), Karl Duguid (Colchester United), Ryan Leonard (Southend United), Rory Patterson (Linfield) Season Long Loan, Jim Paterson, Marcel Seip, Kristzian Timar, Liam Head
Plymouth Argyle will begin the 2011-12 season in Administration as Administrator Brendan Guilfoyle awaits to complete a deal with Bishop International that will see Peter Ridsdale become Chairman.
Unsurprisingly there have been a number of departures from Home Park during the close season as a number of players' contracts have come to an end.
Also amongst those departing were the highly talented Yala Bolasie and Joe Mason to Bristol City and Cardiff City respectively, Bolasie left for an undisclosed fee, whilst Mason earned the Pilgrims a valuable £250,000.
Manager Peter Reid has done his best to build a squad capable of competing in League Two and has drafted in a host of new faces, including Northern Ireland international Warren Feeney and highly promising loanees Tom Hitchcock and Ben Gibson, from Blackburn and Middlesbrough respectively, and goalkeeper Jake Cole who will provide some competition for long serving keeper Romain Larrieu.
Perhaps more importantly, Reid has been able to retain the services of skipper Carl Fletcher and keep defender Stephane Zubar, who signed a two-year deal in the close season. Highly rated Curtis Nelson also remains a Pilgrim- for the time being at least.
Player to Watch: Carl Fletcher
In a season in which he was forced to go without pay for long periods, Argyle skipper Carl Fletcher conducted himself impeccably both on and off the field. Earlier in his career, he won promotion from League Two with Bournemouth in the 2002-03 season and his experience of that campaign could prove invaluable as Peter Reid attempts to lead what is a young Argyle side back into League One.
SEASON PREVIEW # EXETER CITY
Exeter City
Ins: Guilleum Bauza (Northampton Town), Danny Coles (Bristol Rovers), Lenny Pidgeley (Bradford City), Callum McNish (Southampton), Nicholas Bignell (Reading) Loan
Outs: Jamie Cureton (Leyton Orient), Matthew Taylor (Charlton Athletic), Paul Jones (Peterborough United)
Compared to their local neighbours, Exeter City’s close season has been a fairly quite one.
Whilst Plainmoor, Huish Park and Home Park have witnessed managerial changes, a mass turnover of players and uncertainty over a proposed takeover respectively, Grecians boss Paul Tisdale has kept personnel changes to a minimum.
Whilst other clubs in the lower leagues have undertaken major surgery on their squads ahead of the 2011-12 campaign, Tisdale has opted for a nip and tuck operation.
Major departures for the Grecians include last season’s leading scorer Jamie Cureton, who has decided on a move to Leyton Orient, and skipper Matt Taylor who also headed for the capital to sign for Charlton Athletic. Midfield talisman Ryan Harley also returned to Swansea City after the Swans loaned him back to Exeter after signing him on a free transfer in January.
After equalling their highest ever league position of 8th in League One last season, the Grecians look well equipped to gain another top half finish, despite the departures of the aforementioned individuals.
Following the relegation of Plymouth Argyle, Exeter now find themselves as Devon’s sole representative in League One.
Player to Watch: Liam Sercombe
Following the departure of Ryan Harley, Sercombe has now taken over the mantle as the Grecians' brightest prospect. A product of the club's youth policy, he is tipped to follow in the footsteps of Dean Moxey, George Friend and Danny Seaborne who have all previously earned big money moves away from St James Park.
Ins: Guilleum Bauza (Northampton Town), Danny Coles (Bristol Rovers), Lenny Pidgeley (Bradford City), Callum McNish (Southampton), Nicholas Bignell (Reading) Loan
Outs: Jamie Cureton (Leyton Orient), Matthew Taylor (Charlton Athletic), Paul Jones (Peterborough United)
Compared to their local neighbours, Exeter City’s close season has been a fairly quite one.
Whilst Plainmoor, Huish Park and Home Park have witnessed managerial changes, a mass turnover of players and uncertainty over a proposed takeover respectively, Grecians boss Paul Tisdale has kept personnel changes to a minimum.
Whilst other clubs in the lower leagues have undertaken major surgery on their squads ahead of the 2011-12 campaign, Tisdale has opted for a nip and tuck operation.
Major departures for the Grecians include last season’s leading scorer Jamie Cureton, who has decided on a move to Leyton Orient, and skipper Matt Taylor who also headed for the capital to sign for Charlton Athletic. Midfield talisman Ryan Harley also returned to Swansea City after the Swans loaned him back to Exeter after signing him on a free transfer in January.
After equalling their highest ever league position of 8th in League One last season, the Grecians look well equipped to gain another top half finish, despite the departures of the aforementioned individuals.
Following the relegation of Plymouth Argyle, Exeter now find themselves as Devon’s sole representative in League One.
Player to Watch: Liam Sercombe
Following the departure of Ryan Harley, Sercombe has now taken over the mantle as the Grecians' brightest prospect. A product of the club's youth policy, he is tipped to follow in the footsteps of Dean Moxey, George Friend and Danny Seaborne who have all previously earned big money moves away from St James Park.
Thursday 4 August 2011
SEASON PREVIEW # YEOVIL TOWN
Yeovil Town:
Ins: Gavin Williams (Bristol Rovers), Kieran Agard (Everton), Anthony Edgar (West Ham United), Dominic Blizzard (Bristol Rovers), Bondz N'gala (Plymouth Argyle), Steven MacLean (Plymouth Argyle), Curtis Haynes-Brown (Lowestoft FC), Max Ehmer (QPR Loan), Jed Steer (Norwich City Loan), Rory Fallon (Plymouth Argyle)
Outs: Andy Welsh (Carlisle United), Dean Bowditch (MK Dons), Nathan Smith (Chesterfield), Adam Virgo (Bristol Rovers), Martin Gritton (Stockport County), Alex Russell (Bath City), Sam Williams (Dagenham and Redbridge), Craig Alcock (Peterborough United)
After one of his busiest close seasons since he was appointed as Yeovil Town manager in February 2009, Terry Skiverton has assembled a squad that looks more than capable of holding its own in League One in the forthcoming 2011-12 campaign.
When the Glovers' squad regrouped for pre-season training with only a handful of contracted players, following the summer departures of players such as Andy Welsh, Dean Bowditch and Craig Alcock to name but a few.
However, since then Skiverton has since recruited a number of new faces to assemble a squad which is strong in a number of departments.
In goal, loan signing Jed Steer, who arrived at Huish Park from Norwich City, will be looking to emulate the form shown by previous loanee keepers Alex McCarthy and Stephen Henderson.
Skiverton has also boosted the number of defensive options available to him with the arrival of Bondz N'gala from Plymouth and the return of Max Ehmer from QPR on loan after a successful loan stint in the second half of last season.
Curtis Haynes-Brown, who was plucked from non-league side Lowestoft FC, will be doing battle with Player-Assistant Manager Nathan Jones for the left back spot.
In midfield, Gavin Williams has returned for his fourth spell with the Glovers after he was released by Bristol Rovers. Dominic Blizzard and Anthony Edgar will also be looking to stake their claims for a place in the centre of the park.
Up front, the voids left by the departure of leading scorer Dean Bowditch and the return of Jon Obika to his parent club, Tottenham Hotspur, look to have been filled by Kieran Agard, Steven MacLean and Rory Fallon.
The arrival of Agard from Everton created a stir after he was signed after Skiverton asked fans to recommend potential recruits to him via the social networking site Twitter. MacLean and Fallon both arrive from recently relegated Plymouth Argyle after a difficult season that saw them go without pay for long periods due to the Pilgrims' financial difficulties.
MacLean will be looking to return to the form he showed earlier in the career with Scunthorpe United and Sheffield Wednesday when he averaged almost a goal every other game.
In recent years, Yeovil have consistently defied their critics after being tipped for relegation in each of the last three seasons prior to the current one and they look more than capable of doing it again this time around.
Player to Watch: Gavin Williams
After Williams scored for Bristol Rovers against Yeovil, Terry Skiverton stated that his performance showed that he had been attracting the right loan players to the club after borrowing Williams on two occasions in the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons. Now, after spells away with West Ham, Ipswich and the two Bristol clubs, Williams is back at Huish Park for the second time and if Skiverton can get him performing to his full potential, the Glovers could make a serious impact in League One.
Ins: Gavin Williams (Bristol Rovers), Kieran Agard (Everton), Anthony Edgar (West Ham United), Dominic Blizzard (Bristol Rovers), Bondz N'gala (Plymouth Argyle), Steven MacLean (Plymouth Argyle), Curtis Haynes-Brown (Lowestoft FC), Max Ehmer (QPR Loan), Jed Steer (Norwich City Loan), Rory Fallon (Plymouth Argyle)
Outs: Andy Welsh (Carlisle United), Dean Bowditch (MK Dons), Nathan Smith (Chesterfield), Adam Virgo (Bristol Rovers), Martin Gritton (Stockport County), Alex Russell (Bath City), Sam Williams (Dagenham and Redbridge), Craig Alcock (Peterborough United)
After one of his busiest close seasons since he was appointed as Yeovil Town manager in February 2009, Terry Skiverton has assembled a squad that looks more than capable of holding its own in League One in the forthcoming 2011-12 campaign.
When the Glovers' squad regrouped for pre-season training with only a handful of contracted players, following the summer departures of players such as Andy Welsh, Dean Bowditch and Craig Alcock to name but a few.
However, since then Skiverton has since recruited a number of new faces to assemble a squad which is strong in a number of departments.
In goal, loan signing Jed Steer, who arrived at Huish Park from Norwich City, will be looking to emulate the form shown by previous loanee keepers Alex McCarthy and Stephen Henderson.
Skiverton has also boosted the number of defensive options available to him with the arrival of Bondz N'gala from Plymouth and the return of Max Ehmer from QPR on loan after a successful loan stint in the second half of last season.
Curtis Haynes-Brown, who was plucked from non-league side Lowestoft FC, will be doing battle with Player-Assistant Manager Nathan Jones for the left back spot.
In midfield, Gavin Williams has returned for his fourth spell with the Glovers after he was released by Bristol Rovers. Dominic Blizzard and Anthony Edgar will also be looking to stake their claims for a place in the centre of the park.
Up front, the voids left by the departure of leading scorer Dean Bowditch and the return of Jon Obika to his parent club, Tottenham Hotspur, look to have been filled by Kieran Agard, Steven MacLean and Rory Fallon.
The arrival of Agard from Everton created a stir after he was signed after Skiverton asked fans to recommend potential recruits to him via the social networking site Twitter. MacLean and Fallon both arrive from recently relegated Plymouth Argyle after a difficult season that saw them go without pay for long periods due to the Pilgrims' financial difficulties.
MacLean will be looking to return to the form he showed earlier in the career with Scunthorpe United and Sheffield Wednesday when he averaged almost a goal every other game.
In recent years, Yeovil have consistently defied their critics after being tipped for relegation in each of the last three seasons prior to the current one and they look more than capable of doing it again this time around.
Player to Watch: Gavin Williams
After Williams scored for Bristol Rovers against Yeovil, Terry Skiverton stated that his performance showed that he had been attracting the right loan players to the club after borrowing Williams on two occasions in the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons. Now, after spells away with West Ham, Ipswich and the two Bristol clubs, Williams is back at Huish Park for the second time and if Skiverton can get him performing to his full potential, the Glovers could make a serious impact in League One.
Tuesday 2 August 2011
2011-12 SEASON PREVIEW # TORQUAY UNITED
Torquay United:
Ins: Joe Oastler (QPR), Chris McPhee (Kidderminster Harriers), Daniel Leadbitter (Newcastle United), Bobby Olejinik (Falkirk), Brian Saah (Cambridge United), Rene Howe (Peterborough United), Martin Rice (Truro City), Ian Morris (Scunthorpe United), Taiwo Atieno (Unattached)
Outs: Scott Bevan (Bristol Rovers), Guy Branston (Bradford City), Danny Potter (Newport County), Chris Zebroski (Bristol Rovers)
Following last season's Play-Off final defeat at the hands of Stevenage and Paul Buckle's departure to Bristol Rovers, Torquay United manager Martin Ling has set about building a squad that is capable of challenging for promotion again.
Despite having to deal with the close season departures of influential central defender Guy Branston to Bradford City and Scott Bevan and last season's leading scorer Chris Zebroski who both followed Buckle to the Memorial Stadium, Ling has so far made what look to be a number of astute signings.
To replace Branston, Ling has brought in Brian Saah, who played under him at both Leyton Orient and Cambridge, who he has installed as club captain with Lee Mansell as team captain.
The void left by Bevan has been filled by former Austrian Under-21 Bobby Olejnik who moved to Plainmoor from former Scottish Premier League side Falkirk. Martin Rice will provide him with cover after returning to Plainmoor after a spell with Truro City.
Strikers Rene Howe and Taiwo Atieno have been drafted in boost the Gulls' forward line following the departure of Zebroski, to link up with Buckle at the Memorial Stadium, and return of loanees Gavin Tomlin and Jake Robinson.
Other new signings also include the permanent acquisition of former loan signing Joe Oastler from QPR, who looks to have made the right back spot his own after an impressive pre-season showing, Chris McPhee has returned to Plainmoor after spells in the Blue Square Premier with Ebbsfleet, Weymouth and Kidderminster and former Republic of Ireland Youth and Under-21 international Ian Morris was snapped up following his release from Scunthorpe United.
In Ling, the Gulls have a manager who knows what it takes to win promotion from League Two having led Leyton Orient to automatic promotion in 2006 and his teams also have a reputation of playing passing football.
He has inherited a strong defensive base which includes Chris Robertson, Mark Ellis and Kevin Nicholson as well as Northern Ireland Under-21 midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who is one of the most exciting young players in the division.
If he could find a partnership between Billy Kee, who is also a Northern Ireland Under-21 player, and either of his new signings Rene Howe or Taiwo Atieno, who has been capped by Kenya, then Torquay can be in the promotion race again in the 2011-12 campaign.
A win over Burton Albion would be an ideal start for Ling's new Gulls, which would set them up nicely for a meeting with a few familiar faces in their first away game of the league campaign against Paul Buckle's Bristol Rovers.
Player to Watch: Eunan O'Kane
Since his arrival at Plainmoor in January 2010 from Irish League side Coleraine, Eunan O'Kane has become one of the Gulls' most important players. Since then, Eunan has emerged as one of the most exciting talents to have appeared for Torquay in many years.
He created a small piece of history last November, when he became the first Gulls' player to score for one of the Home Nations when he found the net for Northern Ireland Under-21's against their Scottish counterparts in a friendly.
Ins: Joe Oastler (QPR), Chris McPhee (Kidderminster Harriers), Daniel Leadbitter (Newcastle United), Bobby Olejinik (Falkirk), Brian Saah (Cambridge United), Rene Howe (Peterborough United), Martin Rice (Truro City), Ian Morris (Scunthorpe United), Taiwo Atieno (Unattached)
Outs: Scott Bevan (Bristol Rovers), Guy Branston (Bradford City), Danny Potter (Newport County), Chris Zebroski (Bristol Rovers)
Following last season's Play-Off final defeat at the hands of Stevenage and Paul Buckle's departure to Bristol Rovers, Torquay United manager Martin Ling has set about building a squad that is capable of challenging for promotion again.
Despite having to deal with the close season departures of influential central defender Guy Branston to Bradford City and Scott Bevan and last season's leading scorer Chris Zebroski who both followed Buckle to the Memorial Stadium, Ling has so far made what look to be a number of astute signings.
To replace Branston, Ling has brought in Brian Saah, who played under him at both Leyton Orient and Cambridge, who he has installed as club captain with Lee Mansell as team captain.
The void left by Bevan has been filled by former Austrian Under-21 Bobby Olejnik who moved to Plainmoor from former Scottish Premier League side Falkirk. Martin Rice will provide him with cover after returning to Plainmoor after a spell with Truro City.
Strikers Rene Howe and Taiwo Atieno have been drafted in boost the Gulls' forward line following the departure of Zebroski, to link up with Buckle at the Memorial Stadium, and return of loanees Gavin Tomlin and Jake Robinson.
Other new signings also include the permanent acquisition of former loan signing Joe Oastler from QPR, who looks to have made the right back spot his own after an impressive pre-season showing, Chris McPhee has returned to Plainmoor after spells in the Blue Square Premier with Ebbsfleet, Weymouth and Kidderminster and former Republic of Ireland Youth and Under-21 international Ian Morris was snapped up following his release from Scunthorpe United.
In Ling, the Gulls have a manager who knows what it takes to win promotion from League Two having led Leyton Orient to automatic promotion in 2006 and his teams also have a reputation of playing passing football.
He has inherited a strong defensive base which includes Chris Robertson, Mark Ellis and Kevin Nicholson as well as Northern Ireland Under-21 midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who is one of the most exciting young players in the division.
If he could find a partnership between Billy Kee, who is also a Northern Ireland Under-21 player, and either of his new signings Rene Howe or Taiwo Atieno, who has been capped by Kenya, then Torquay can be in the promotion race again in the 2011-12 campaign.
A win over Burton Albion would be an ideal start for Ling's new Gulls, which would set them up nicely for a meeting with a few familiar faces in their first away game of the league campaign against Paul Buckle's Bristol Rovers.
Player to Watch: Eunan O'Kane
Since his arrival at Plainmoor in January 2010 from Irish League side Coleraine, Eunan O'Kane has become one of the Gulls' most important players. Since then, Eunan has emerged as one of the most exciting talents to have appeared for Torquay in many years.
He created a small piece of history last November, when he became the first Gulls' player to score for one of the Home Nations when he found the net for Northern Ireland Under-21's against their Scottish counterparts in a friendly.
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