Today, we look at Part Two of the review of 2011 for Plymouth Argyle.
As well as seeing players such as Joe Mason, Yala Bolasie and Jack Stephens leave for pastures new, nine players that were out of contract were also released, including Karl Duguid, Rory Fallon, Marcel Seip, Luke Summerfield, Chris Clark, Kristzan Timar, Steven MacLean, Ryan Leonard and Liam Head.
Kari Arnason also left the club after refusing to defer his wages, Bondz N'gala joined Yeovil Town and Damien Johnson and Rory Patterson agreed season-long loan deals with Huddersfield Town and Northern Irish side Linfield respectively.
One plus point for Peter Reid was that Carl Fletcher and Stephane Zubar agreed to stay at Home Park.
Reid now set about assembling a new squad mainly made up from free transfers and loan signings as players such as Jake Cole, Luke Daley, Conor Hourihane, Will Atkinson and Warren Feeney arrived at Home Park.
Amongst the uncertainty facing the club in the close season, the Pilgrims celebrated Romain Larrieu's ten years service at the club with a testimonial against QPR who, of course, are managed by former Argyle manager Neil Warnock.
After achieving a creditable 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury Town on the opening day of the season, with Fletcher scoring a last minute equaliser, the Pilgrims then went on a run of eight straight defeats in the league, which saw Reid relieved of his managerial duties.
Fletcher was promptly installed as caretaker manager with Larrieu as his number two. The change appeared to paid an immediate dividend as they recorded a 2-0 win over Macclesfield Town in their first game in charge.
Off the field, the takeover bid by Bishop International Ltd fell by the wayside, as they failed to provide the necessary funding, and Administrator Brendan Guilfoyle turned to James Brent's Akkeron Group who brought the club out of Administration officially on October 31st 2011.
This decision came weeks after Brent agreed a deal with the club's employees to pay back their wages that they had previously had to defer.
As part of the deal, the club agreed a deal to sell Home Park back to Plymouth City Council.
Once the sale of the club was confirmed, Fletcher was confirmed as manager on a permanent basis with Larrieu as his assistant.
Despite their FA Cup first round exit at the hands of non-league Stourbridge and their first league defeat against Devon neighbours Torquay United for the first time in 40 years, the Pilgrims are currently on a four match unbeaten run, which has included wins over Northampton Town and Bristol Rovers.
Since exiting Administration, Fletcher has been able to strengthen his squad with the loan signings of Nick Chadwick, who originally left Home Park in 2008, veteran defender Darren Purse and winger Ashley Hemmings, as League Two survival remains firmly in their sights as they enter 2012.
Friday 30 December 2011
Thursday 29 December 2011
REVIEW OF THE YEAR # PLYMOUTH ARGYLE I
As 2011 has proved to be something of an eventful year for Plymouth Argyle, I have decided to split their tale of the year into Two Parts.
Before I go any further, I would like to dedicate this article to the staff of Plymouth Argyle Football Club who spent most of the year working without pay whilst the club was in Administration.
Their hard work during these difficult times helped to preserve 125 years of the club's history and, as long as professional football is played in Plymouth, their efforts should never be forgotten.
The year started with a number of player departures in the January transfer window as Craig Noone joined Brighton, Bradley Wright-Phillips headed for Charlton Athletic, after a move to Reading fell through, and Benin international defender Reda Johnson was snapped up by Sheffield Wednesday.
However, the money raised from the sales of the previously mentioned players merely provided the club with a stay of execution as they were docked ten points at the end of February 2011, after it was announced that they intended to appoint an Administrator.
This plunged Argyle into the League One drop zone as the club officially entered Administration on March 4th 2011 and Brendan Guilfoyle of the P&A partnership was appointed to run the club.
Despite the best efforts, Peter Reid's men were unable to beat the drop and suffered a second consecutive relegation.
Off the field, Reid did his best to help the Pilgrims' survival cause, as he donated his 1986 FA Cup Runners-Up medal to an auction to raise funds to help save the club, which was one of many events organised by the Green Taverners to aid the club in their hour of need.
The close season saw a number of bids for the club made by a number of different people including local businessman James Brent and South East based Paul Buttivant before the chosen preferred bidder was unveiled as Bishop's International Ltd, a Gilbraltar based company headed by Truro City Chairman Kevin Heaney.
This was after the club's creditors agreed to accept a deal that would see them receive 0.77p in the pound on the amount that they were owed by the club.
As part of the deal, Bishop's International would buy the club and then sell it for £1 to Acting Chairman Peter Ridsdale, whilst retaining ownership of Home Park.
However, as the start of the 2011-12 season drew closer, Heaney and Bishop International seemed to be no closer to proving they had the necessary funding to complete the deal.
Fans signed a 3,000 strong petition begging Mr Guilfoyle to consider an alternative bid from Brent.
At this time, the staff continued to defer the salaries and there were yet more departures on the playing side as Joe Mason, Yala Bolasie and Jack Stephens were all sold to Cardiff City, Bristol City and Southampton respectively.
Before I go any further, I would like to dedicate this article to the staff of Plymouth Argyle Football Club who spent most of the year working without pay whilst the club was in Administration.
Their hard work during these difficult times helped to preserve 125 years of the club's history and, as long as professional football is played in Plymouth, their efforts should never be forgotten.
The year started with a number of player departures in the January transfer window as Craig Noone joined Brighton, Bradley Wright-Phillips headed for Charlton Athletic, after a move to Reading fell through, and Benin international defender Reda Johnson was snapped up by Sheffield Wednesday.
However, the money raised from the sales of the previously mentioned players merely provided the club with a stay of execution as they were docked ten points at the end of February 2011, after it was announced that they intended to appoint an Administrator.
This plunged Argyle into the League One drop zone as the club officially entered Administration on March 4th 2011 and Brendan Guilfoyle of the P&A partnership was appointed to run the club.
Despite the best efforts, Peter Reid's men were unable to beat the drop and suffered a second consecutive relegation.
Off the field, Reid did his best to help the Pilgrims' survival cause, as he donated his 1986 FA Cup Runners-Up medal to an auction to raise funds to help save the club, which was one of many events organised by the Green Taverners to aid the club in their hour of need.
The close season saw a number of bids for the club made by a number of different people including local businessman James Brent and South East based Paul Buttivant before the chosen preferred bidder was unveiled as Bishop's International Ltd, a Gilbraltar based company headed by Truro City Chairman Kevin Heaney.
This was after the club's creditors agreed to accept a deal that would see them receive 0.77p in the pound on the amount that they were owed by the club.
As part of the deal, Bishop's International would buy the club and then sell it for £1 to Acting Chairman Peter Ridsdale, whilst retaining ownership of Home Park.
However, as the start of the 2011-12 season drew closer, Heaney and Bishop International seemed to be no closer to proving they had the necessary funding to complete the deal.
Fans signed a 3,000 strong petition begging Mr Guilfoyle to consider an alternative bid from Brent.
At this time, the staff continued to defer the salaries and there were yet more departures on the playing side as Joe Mason, Yala Bolasie and Jack Stephens were all sold to Cardiff City, Bristol City and Southampton respectively.
Part Two to follow tomorrow.
Wednesday 28 December 2011
REVIEW OF THE YEAR # EXETER CITY
For Exeter City, 2011 was a year of continued progress as they equalled their highest ever league finish, equalled their best run in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and drew a Premier League Giant in the Carling Cup.
The 2010-211 campaign ended with the Grecians finishing the season in 8th place in the League One, matching their highest league placing previously set in the 1979-80 season.
Key figures in helping the Grecians achieve this feat were midfielder Ryan Harley, who was sold to Swansea City and then loaned back to St James Park, and veteran striker Jamie Cureton who, after scoring 20 goals in all competitions, departed for Leyton Orient at the end of the season.
Memorable results for Paul Tisdale's men included a 3-1 win over Charlton Athletic at the Valley in February and a final day 2-1 victory against Sheffield Wednesday.
They also impressed in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy as they reached the Southern Area Final of the competition where they were beaten by Brentford over two legs.
Their cup exploits for the year didn't end there as the Grecians reached the second round of the Carling Cup for the first time since 1992, after beating Yeovil Town, where they were rewarded with a lucrative home tie with Premier League giants Liverpool.
Kenny Dalglish fielded an experienced side at St James Park, which featured a number of Premiership regulars including Pepe Reina, Martin Skrtel, Charlie Adam and Luis Suarez.
The Reds won the tie on the night 3-1 with Suarez, Maxi Rodgriuez and substitute Andy Carroll finding the target. Daniel Nardiello pulled one back for the Grecians from the penalty spot.
In the league, Exeter find themselves a point clear of safety and in Nardiello, who has scored six goals from 18 appearances, they look to have found a striker who can fill the void left by the departure of Cureton in the summer.
Following the relegation of Plymouth Argyle last season, the Grecians will now battle it out with Yeovil to see who becomes the top dog in the South West. The Glovers are currently just one point behind Exeter and the two sides face each other on January 2nd.
The 2010-211 campaign ended with the Grecians finishing the season in 8th place in the League One, matching their highest league placing previously set in the 1979-80 season.
Key figures in helping the Grecians achieve this feat were midfielder Ryan Harley, who was sold to Swansea City and then loaned back to St James Park, and veteran striker Jamie Cureton who, after scoring 20 goals in all competitions, departed for Leyton Orient at the end of the season.
Memorable results for Paul Tisdale's men included a 3-1 win over Charlton Athletic at the Valley in February and a final day 2-1 victory against Sheffield Wednesday.
They also impressed in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy as they reached the Southern Area Final of the competition where they were beaten by Brentford over two legs.
Their cup exploits for the year didn't end there as the Grecians reached the second round of the Carling Cup for the first time since 1992, after beating Yeovil Town, where they were rewarded with a lucrative home tie with Premier League giants Liverpool.
Kenny Dalglish fielded an experienced side at St James Park, which featured a number of Premiership regulars including Pepe Reina, Martin Skrtel, Charlie Adam and Luis Suarez.
The Reds won the tie on the night 3-1 with Suarez, Maxi Rodgriuez and substitute Andy Carroll finding the target. Daniel Nardiello pulled one back for the Grecians from the penalty spot.
In the league, Exeter find themselves a point clear of safety and in Nardiello, who has scored six goals from 18 appearances, they look to have found a striker who can fill the void left by the departure of Cureton in the summer.
Following the relegation of Plymouth Argyle last season, the Grecians will now battle it out with Yeovil to see who becomes the top dog in the South West. The Glovers are currently just one point behind Exeter and the two sides face each other on January 2nd.
Tuesday 27 December 2011
REVIEW OF THE YEAR #YEOVIL TOWN
On December 31st 2010, Yeovil Town sat at the bottom of League One and a return to the basement tier of the Football League, for the first time since 2005, loomed large.
However, a goalless draw against Plymouth Argyle, which could have been a 1-0 win had it not been for a Sam Williams that was saved by Pilgrims keeper David Button. The match also saw Paul Wotton and loan signing Max Ehmer make their debuts.
This result sparked a mini revival as the Glovers won four from their next six league encounters. This run of form saw manager Terry Skiverton nominated for the Manager of the Month award for January 2010 and skipper Paul Huntington receive the Npower League Player of the Month award for the same month.
Skiverton also made further additions to his squad including a return for goalkeeper Stephen Henderson on loan from Bristol City, experienced midfielder Alex Russell joined from Bath City on a short-term deal and Oli Johnson was signed on loan from Norwich City.
Shaun MacDonald and Jon Obika also returned to Huish Park for their fifth and fourth loan spells respectively as Yeovil rallied to finish a long way clear of the drop zone.
Their final league position at the end of the season was 14th, their second highest league finish since winning promotion from the Conference in 2003, one place higher than Sheffield Wednesday.
However, their improved showing the second half of the season did not go unnoticed and with a number of players out of contract at the end of the campaign, the close season saw a mass exodus from Huish Park.
Andy Welsh headed north to join Carlisle United, full-backs Craig Alcock and Nathan Smith signed for Peterborough and Chesterfield respectively and leading scorer Dean Bowditch signed for MK Dons.
Despite starting pre-season training with only a handful of players under contract, Skiverton gradually assembled a squad ready for the start of the new season.
New signings included a permanent return for Gavin Williams, after two loan spells at Huish Park since his transfer to West Ham United in 2004, Dominic Blizzard and Steven MacLean and Bondz N'gala from Plymouth Argyle.
Kieran Agard was also snapped up following his release from Everton after Skiverton was alerted to his availability by a fan on the social networking site Twitter.
At the time of writing, following a last gasp defeat at the hands of leaders Charlton Athletic on Boxing Day, the Glovers lie fourth from bottom in the League One table on goals scored.
In the coming weeks, Skiverton will also need to decide on the futures of several loan players currently at Huish Park, including Oli Johnson, Jon Obika, Gavin Massey and Rene Gilmartin.
Looking further ahead, a decision on extending the loan deal of Conor Clifford will need to be made in January as Skiverton looks to beat the drop and keep Yeovil in League One.
However, a goalless draw against Plymouth Argyle, which could have been a 1-0 win had it not been for a Sam Williams that was saved by Pilgrims keeper David Button. The match also saw Paul Wotton and loan signing Max Ehmer make their debuts.
This result sparked a mini revival as the Glovers won four from their next six league encounters. This run of form saw manager Terry Skiverton nominated for the Manager of the Month award for January 2010 and skipper Paul Huntington receive the Npower League Player of the Month award for the same month.
Skiverton also made further additions to his squad including a return for goalkeeper Stephen Henderson on loan from Bristol City, experienced midfielder Alex Russell joined from Bath City on a short-term deal and Oli Johnson was signed on loan from Norwich City.
Shaun MacDonald and Jon Obika also returned to Huish Park for their fifth and fourth loan spells respectively as Yeovil rallied to finish a long way clear of the drop zone.
Their final league position at the end of the season was 14th, their second highest league finish since winning promotion from the Conference in 2003, one place higher than Sheffield Wednesday.
However, their improved showing the second half of the season did not go unnoticed and with a number of players out of contract at the end of the campaign, the close season saw a mass exodus from Huish Park.
Andy Welsh headed north to join Carlisle United, full-backs Craig Alcock and Nathan Smith signed for Peterborough and Chesterfield respectively and leading scorer Dean Bowditch signed for MK Dons.
Despite starting pre-season training with only a handful of players under contract, Skiverton gradually assembled a squad ready for the start of the new season.
New signings included a permanent return for Gavin Williams, after two loan spells at Huish Park since his transfer to West Ham United in 2004, Dominic Blizzard and Steven MacLean and Bondz N'gala from Plymouth Argyle.
Kieran Agard was also snapped up following his release from Everton after Skiverton was alerted to his availability by a fan on the social networking site Twitter.
At the time of writing, following a last gasp defeat at the hands of leaders Charlton Athletic on Boxing Day, the Glovers lie fourth from bottom in the League One table on goals scored.
In the coming weeks, Skiverton will also need to decide on the futures of several loan players currently at Huish Park, including Oli Johnson, Jon Obika, Gavin Massey and Rene Gilmartin.
Looking further ahead, a decision on extending the loan deal of Conor Clifford will need to be made in January as Skiverton looks to beat the drop and keep Yeovil in League One.
Saturday 24 December 2011
SEASONS GREETINGS
As it is Christmas Eve, I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone who has viewed South West Football in 2011 and wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and prosperous 2012.
I will be continuing the reviews of the year for our South West league sides, which I have already started with a review of Torquay United, as 2011 draws to a close.
I would also like wish you teams the best of luck for any fixtures they may have over the festive season, whether it be on Boxing Day or New Year's Eve, or any matches in early 2012.
Regards
South West Football Blogspot.
I will be continuing the reviews of the year for our South West league sides, which I have already started with a review of Torquay United, as 2011 draws to a close.
I would also like wish you teams the best of luck for any fixtures they may have over the festive season, whether it be on Boxing Day or New Year's Eve, or any matches in early 2012.
Regards
South West Football Blogspot.
Thursday 22 December 2011
REVIEW OF THE YEAR # TORQUAY UNITED
If the selection process of choosing Paul Buckle's successor as Torquay United manager had been a horse race, Martin Ling would have made a late run inside the home straight before winning on a photo finish.
The former Leyton Orient and Cambridge manager was the final candidate to be interviewed by the Gulls board. It has so far proved to be a sound appointment as Torquay head into the Xmas period well placed to challenge for a Play-Off spot.
His appointment was made during the close season after Paul Buckle left Plainmoor to take over as manager of Bristol Rovers after leading the Gulls to the League Two Play-Off final where they were beaten by Stevenage.
However, their run to Old Trafford provided many twists and turns.
In February, the club was at the centre of a ineligible player controversy in a 3-1 defeat against Hereford United as Jake Robinson, who was signed on loan from Shrewsbury Town, with Nicky Wroe moving in the opposite direction on a permanent transfer, wasn't eligible to have been selected in the match.
To complicate matters further, Hereford had also fielded an ineligible player, Rob Purdie, in the same match. A Football League hearing later punished the Bulls by deducting the three points they had won on the night and docked the Gulls of a single point, while both clubs received monetary fines.
A month later, Robinson was in the headlines for the right reasons when Torquay faced his parent club, Shrewsbury, at Plainmoor. As there was nothing preventing him from appearing for the Gulls on the day, Robinson lined up against the Shrews and bagged a brace as Torquay ran out as 5-0 winners.
The paths of the two sides would cross again in the Play-Off semi-finals as Torquay came out on top in the first leg at Plainmoor with goals from Chris Zebroski and Eunan O'Kane. This proved to be enough to take the Gulls through to the final against Stevenage.
Unfortunately, Torquay were unable to repeat their heroics of earlier in the season at Old Trafford as they went down to a solitary strike from John Mousinho. It also proved to Paul Buckle's final game in charge as Torquay manager as he was named as Bristol Rovers manager within days of the defeat.
During his four-year reign, Buckle had lead the Gulls to the FA Trophy final in 2008, promotion back to the Football League in 2009 and to the brink of promotion to League One in his final season at the helm. He had also led Torquay to the FA Cup fourth round twice in the 2008-09 & 2010-11 campaigns.
To maintain the momentum they had gained during these four years, it was imperative that the Gulls board made the right choice when it came to choosing his successor.
Several names were linked to the vacancy including former skipper Chris Hargreaves, ex Hibs manager John Hughes as well as Ian McParland, the former Notts County manager before Martin Ling was unveiled as the choice of the Torquay board.
On his arrival at Plainmoor, Ling saw Scott Bevan and Chris Zebroski follow Buckle to the Memorial Stadium and also lost inspirational central defender and Player of the Year Guy Branston to Bradford City.
His first act was to appoint his former Swindon teammate Shaun Taylor as his assistant before he set about rebuilding his squad.
In came striker Rene Howe from Peterborough United, former Austrian Under-21 goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik and defender Brian Saah was recruited from his previous club, Cambridge.
Other new signings included former Republic of Ireland Under-21 midfielder Ian Morris and Kenyan striker Taiwo Atieno. Martin Rice and Chris McPhee also returned to the club whilst Joe Oastler agreed a permanent deal following a successful loan spell.
After a promising start, which included a 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium, the Gulls went on a run of eight matches without a win during September and October.
They then went on a run of five wins in all competition and their only defeat since the eight game winless streak came in the FA Cup against Sheffield United and in their recent league encounter with Accrington Stanley.
One of Ling's strength since he took charge at Plainmoor has been his ability to get the best out of the players that he inherited.
Irish midfielder Eunan O'Kane has gone from strength to strength in the centre of midfield and has agreed a new contract that will keep him with the Gulls until 2014. This move will give Ling greater bargaining powers when dealing with any potential suitors in the January transfer window.
Another pair who have committed their futures to Torquay are Lee Mansell and Kevin Nicholson. The appointment of Ling has seen Mansell returned to the centre of midfield after playing at right back for much of last season.
The switch has seen him find the back of the net on seven occasions, making him the Gulls' second highest scorer of the current campaign behind Rene Howe. This feat enabled him to win a bet made on Twitter with Nicholson, which saw the left back clean Mansell's house wearing nothing but a pinny!
However, not to be outshone on the pitch, Nicholson has once again proved himself to be amongst the best left backs in League Two. He has also found the back of the net five times, his best goal scoring feat since he arrived at Plainmoor in 2007.
The former Leyton Orient and Cambridge manager was the final candidate to be interviewed by the Gulls board. It has so far proved to be a sound appointment as Torquay head into the Xmas period well placed to challenge for a Play-Off spot.
His appointment was made during the close season after Paul Buckle left Plainmoor to take over as manager of Bristol Rovers after leading the Gulls to the League Two Play-Off final where they were beaten by Stevenage.
However, their run to Old Trafford provided many twists and turns.
In February, the club was at the centre of a ineligible player controversy in a 3-1 defeat against Hereford United as Jake Robinson, who was signed on loan from Shrewsbury Town, with Nicky Wroe moving in the opposite direction on a permanent transfer, wasn't eligible to have been selected in the match.
To complicate matters further, Hereford had also fielded an ineligible player, Rob Purdie, in the same match. A Football League hearing later punished the Bulls by deducting the three points they had won on the night and docked the Gulls of a single point, while both clubs received monetary fines.
A month later, Robinson was in the headlines for the right reasons when Torquay faced his parent club, Shrewsbury, at Plainmoor. As there was nothing preventing him from appearing for the Gulls on the day, Robinson lined up against the Shrews and bagged a brace as Torquay ran out as 5-0 winners.
The paths of the two sides would cross again in the Play-Off semi-finals as Torquay came out on top in the first leg at Plainmoor with goals from Chris Zebroski and Eunan O'Kane. This proved to be enough to take the Gulls through to the final against Stevenage.
Unfortunately, Torquay were unable to repeat their heroics of earlier in the season at Old Trafford as they went down to a solitary strike from John Mousinho. It also proved to Paul Buckle's final game in charge as Torquay manager as he was named as Bristol Rovers manager within days of the defeat.
During his four-year reign, Buckle had lead the Gulls to the FA Trophy final in 2008, promotion back to the Football League in 2009 and to the brink of promotion to League One in his final season at the helm. He had also led Torquay to the FA Cup fourth round twice in the 2008-09 & 2010-11 campaigns.
To maintain the momentum they had gained during these four years, it was imperative that the Gulls board made the right choice when it came to choosing his successor.
Several names were linked to the vacancy including former skipper Chris Hargreaves, ex Hibs manager John Hughes as well as Ian McParland, the former Notts County manager before Martin Ling was unveiled as the choice of the Torquay board.
On his arrival at Plainmoor, Ling saw Scott Bevan and Chris Zebroski follow Buckle to the Memorial Stadium and also lost inspirational central defender and Player of the Year Guy Branston to Bradford City.
His first act was to appoint his former Swindon teammate Shaun Taylor as his assistant before he set about rebuilding his squad.
In came striker Rene Howe from Peterborough United, former Austrian Under-21 goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik and defender Brian Saah was recruited from his previous club, Cambridge.
Other new signings included former Republic of Ireland Under-21 midfielder Ian Morris and Kenyan striker Taiwo Atieno. Martin Rice and Chris McPhee also returned to the club whilst Joe Oastler agreed a permanent deal following a successful loan spell.
After a promising start, which included a 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers at the Memorial Stadium, the Gulls went on a run of eight matches without a win during September and October.
They then went on a run of five wins in all competition and their only defeat since the eight game winless streak came in the FA Cup against Sheffield United and in their recent league encounter with Accrington Stanley.
One of Ling's strength since he took charge at Plainmoor has been his ability to get the best out of the players that he inherited.
Irish midfielder Eunan O'Kane has gone from strength to strength in the centre of midfield and has agreed a new contract that will keep him with the Gulls until 2014. This move will give Ling greater bargaining powers when dealing with any potential suitors in the January transfer window.
Another pair who have committed their futures to Torquay are Lee Mansell and Kevin Nicholson. The appointment of Ling has seen Mansell returned to the centre of midfield after playing at right back for much of last season.
The switch has seen him find the back of the net on seven occasions, making him the Gulls' second highest scorer of the current campaign behind Rene Howe. This feat enabled him to win a bet made on Twitter with Nicholson, which saw the left back clean Mansell's house wearing nothing but a pinny!
However, not to be outshone on the pitch, Nicholson has once again proved himself to be amongst the best left backs in League Two. He has also found the back of the net five times, his best goal scoring feat since he arrived at Plainmoor in 2007.
Thursday 15 December 2011
GULLS BID TO EXTEND BODIN STAY
Torquay United have entered into negotiations to keep Wales Under-21 starlet Billy Bodin at Plainmoor beyond his current loan deal.
Bodin has made 16 appearances for the Gulls and has scored four goals and manager Martin Ling, who played alongside Billy's father, Paul Bodin, during his playing days with the Robins, is keen to keep him with Torquay after his loan deal expires on January 8th 2012.
"I've spoken to Swindon a couple of times on the situation," Ling said. "I've spoken to his dad and Billy himself and they would both like him to stay here." said Ling
"But he's Swindon's player and Swindon have got to make that decision and we'll have to assess that nearer the time.
"They know that I would love to keep him until the end of the season and even possibly take him full time."
Swindon Town boss Paolo Di Canio has also hinted that he would be prepared to sell Bodin to the Gulls, if a deal could be agreed which would suit both parties, in September.
Following the progress that he has made during his stay in Devon thus far, it is apparent that Bodin would benefit from playing regular first team football, which is a major advantage for the Gulls and this could be a key factor in deciding his future, in both in the short term and in the long term.
Bodin has made 16 appearances for the Gulls and has scored four goals and manager Martin Ling, who played alongside Billy's father, Paul Bodin, during his playing days with the Robins, is keen to keep him with Torquay after his loan deal expires on January 8th 2012.
"I've spoken to Swindon a couple of times on the situation," Ling said. "I've spoken to his dad and Billy himself and they would both like him to stay here." said Ling
"But he's Swindon's player and Swindon have got to make that decision and we'll have to assess that nearer the time.
"They know that I would love to keep him until the end of the season and even possibly take him full time."
Swindon Town boss Paolo Di Canio has also hinted that he would be prepared to sell Bodin to the Gulls, if a deal could be agreed which would suit both parties, in September.
Following the progress that he has made during his stay in Devon thus far, it is apparent that Bodin would benefit from playing regular first team football, which is a major advantage for the Gulls and this could be a key factor in deciding his future, in both in the short term and in the long term.
GLOVERS LEFT TO FOCUS ON LEAGUE
After their disappointing FA Cup second round exit at the hands of Blue Square Premier high flyers, Fleetwood Town, Yeovil Town are now left to concentrate on the league.
Goals from Jamie McGuire and Jamie Vardy saw the Glovers dumped out of the competition by the Trawlermen who will now be looking forward to an all-Lancashire clash with Ian Holloway's Blackpool.
Manager Terry Skiverton described the result as one of the lowest points of his managerial career and he held a meeting with the squad following the final whistle.
Skiverton also issued a stark warning that such performances will not be tolerated whilst he is in charge at Huish Park.
“There will be a few home truths and there will be people who are maybe looking elsewhere in January on the back of that, because that’s just not on for players of this football club,” he said.
“It’s a case of having to pick up the pieces and make sure that we turn it around in the league.”
One plus point from Tuesday's cup exit is the continuing return to fitness, following a ruptured knee ligament, of talismanic midfielder Gavin Williams.
The Welshman followed up the 33 minutes he featured for against Notts County at Huish Park on the previous Saturday by playing through the entire second half after replacing Chelsea loanee Conor Clifford at half-time.
Terry Skiverton has already described his return to fitness as like having a new signing on board.
If Williams can remain fit for the remainder of the campaign, then there every chance that the Glovers could go on to better their 14th place league finish of last season.
Goals from Jamie McGuire and Jamie Vardy saw the Glovers dumped out of the competition by the Trawlermen who will now be looking forward to an all-Lancashire clash with Ian Holloway's Blackpool.
Manager Terry Skiverton described the result as one of the lowest points of his managerial career and he held a meeting with the squad following the final whistle.
Skiverton also issued a stark warning that such performances will not be tolerated whilst he is in charge at Huish Park.
“There will be a few home truths and there will be people who are maybe looking elsewhere in January on the back of that, because that’s just not on for players of this football club,” he said.
“It’s a case of having to pick up the pieces and make sure that we turn it around in the league.”
One plus point from Tuesday's cup exit is the continuing return to fitness, following a ruptured knee ligament, of talismanic midfielder Gavin Williams.
The Welshman followed up the 33 minutes he featured for against Notts County at Huish Park on the previous Saturday by playing through the entire second half after replacing Chelsea loanee Conor Clifford at half-time.
Terry Skiverton has already described his return to fitness as like having a new signing on board.
If Williams can remain fit for the remainder of the campaign, then there every chance that the Glovers could go on to better their 14th place league finish of last season.
Monday 12 December 2011
ARGYLE LOOK TO REPLACE RIDSDALE
Following the recent departure of Peter Ridsdale to become Chairman of Preston North End, Plymouth Argyle owner James Brent is facing his first major off-the-field related decision.
Whilst Ridsdale had his critics, after his well documented reigns as Chairman of Leeds United and Cardiff City, he was a man vastly experienced in the world of football with a considerable number of contacts.
Indeed, he played a key role in helping the Pilgrims secure the services of veteran defender Darren Purse on loan from Millwall with a view to a permanent deal when the January transfer window.
It is imperative that Brent appoints an experienced individual, with a similar level of contacts to Ridsdale, due to the club's position, at the time of writing, of second from bottom in League Two.
Recent results have shown that Argyle, under the management of Carl Fletcher, with a win over Northampton Town and a draw away at Bradford City to show from their last two league outings.
It is also vital that they get three points from their game with Hereford United on Saturday and continue to pick up points from their festive games against Bristol Rovers, Aldershot Town and Torquay United.
Whilst Ridsdale had his critics, after his well documented reigns as Chairman of Leeds United and Cardiff City, he was a man vastly experienced in the world of football with a considerable number of contacts.
Indeed, he played a key role in helping the Pilgrims secure the services of veteran defender Darren Purse on loan from Millwall with a view to a permanent deal when the January transfer window.
It is imperative that Brent appoints an experienced individual, with a similar level of contacts to Ridsdale, due to the club's position, at the time of writing, of second from bottom in League Two.
Recent results have shown that Argyle, under the management of Carl Fletcher, with a win over Northampton Town and a draw away at Bradford City to show from their last two league outings.
It is also vital that they get three points from their game with Hereford United on Saturday and continue to pick up points from their festive games against Bristol Rovers, Aldershot Town and Torquay United.
Wednesday 7 December 2011
MANSE AND NICO AGREE NEW DEALS
Torquay United have agreed new two-year deals with long serving duo Lee Mansell amd Kevin Nicholson that will keep the pair at Plainmoor until the summer of 2014.
Mansell, who replaced Nicky Wroe as captain last season, has been with the Gulls since 2006 when he signed from Oxford United. He is currently Torquay's second highest scorer has scored seven goals from midfield in the 2011-12 campaign.
Nicholson first arrived at Plainmoor from Forest Green Rovers in 2007 and has continued to be an integral part of the Gulls side since their return to the Football League. His ability from set pieces and his defensive displays have helped to establish him as one of the best left-backs in League Two.
Gulls boss Martin Ling was delighted to have secured the signatures of the duo as he looks to build a team capable of challenging for promotion to League One.
"I spoke to both of them in the summer and they had done really well last year, so I told them they were a big part of where I wanted to go," said Ling.
"They've both accepted two-and-a-half year deals and I'm delighted to have them on board. They're a big part of Torquay United. They are brilliant on the training ground and they've both had superb seasons so far.
"I have always thought of Manse as a midfield player, although I didn't expect him to get so many goals as quickly as he has, but his energy and enthusiasm around the club is there for everyone to see. The goals have been an added bonus and he has been a big, big plus for us."
"Nico gives you quality going forward and he defends very well in a back-four unit. He's been superb for us and they are two big components in having the right players at the club for seasons to come.
"Eunan O'Kane signed earlier in the season and now we have Manse and Nico. There are a few more to deal with at the right times and the building blocks are being put in the right place."
Mansell, who replaced Nicky Wroe as captain last season, has been with the Gulls since 2006 when he signed from Oxford United. He is currently Torquay's second highest scorer has scored seven goals from midfield in the 2011-12 campaign.
Nicholson first arrived at Plainmoor from Forest Green Rovers in 2007 and has continued to be an integral part of the Gulls side since their return to the Football League. His ability from set pieces and his defensive displays have helped to establish him as one of the best left-backs in League Two.
Gulls boss Martin Ling was delighted to have secured the signatures of the duo as he looks to build a team capable of challenging for promotion to League One.
"I spoke to both of them in the summer and they had done really well last year, so I told them they were a big part of where I wanted to go," said Ling.
"They've both accepted two-and-a-half year deals and I'm delighted to have them on board. They're a big part of Torquay United. They are brilliant on the training ground and they've both had superb seasons so far.
"I have always thought of Manse as a midfield player, although I didn't expect him to get so many goals as quickly as he has, but his energy and enthusiasm around the club is there for everyone to see. The goals have been an added bonus and he has been a big, big plus for us."
"Nico gives you quality going forward and he defends very well in a back-four unit. He's been superb for us and they are two big components in having the right players at the club for seasons to come.
"Eunan O'Kane signed earlier in the season and now we have Manse and Nico. There are a few more to deal with at the right times and the building blocks are being put in the right place."
Sunday 4 December 2011
THE GULLS BOW OUT, BUT THE GLOVERS REMAIN
The South West's representatives in the 2011-12 FA Cup is now down to one following Torquay United's defeat at the hands of Sheffield United.
A 3rd minute striker from Rene Howe gave the Gulls an early lead before the Blades struck back in the second half following an own goal from Torquay defender Mark Ellis.
Welsh striker Ched Evans, a player who played under the late Gary Speed for both club and country, then scored a brace, as a timely tribute to his former boss, to give the League One side a 3-1 lead before Danny Stevens grabbed a late consolation for the Gulls.
This now means that Yeovil Town are the only South West side remaining in the competition as they drew 2-2 with Blue Square Premier side Fleetwood Town on Friday night.
Goals from Ed Upson and Conor Clifford gave the Glovers a two goal lead before the Trawlermen levelled through ex Torquay defender Kieran Charnock and a late penalty from Jamie Milligan.
Should Yeovil win their replay, which takes place a week on Tuesday, their reward will be a home tie with Blackpool, who are managed by former Plymouth Argyle boss Ian Holloway, in a repeat of the 2007 League One Play-Off final which the Tangerines won 2-0.
A 3rd minute striker from Rene Howe gave the Gulls an early lead before the Blades struck back in the second half following an own goal from Torquay defender Mark Ellis.
Welsh striker Ched Evans, a player who played under the late Gary Speed for both club and country, then scored a brace, as a timely tribute to his former boss, to give the League One side a 3-1 lead before Danny Stevens grabbed a late consolation for the Gulls.
This now means that Yeovil Town are the only South West side remaining in the competition as they drew 2-2 with Blue Square Premier side Fleetwood Town on Friday night.
Goals from Ed Upson and Conor Clifford gave the Glovers a two goal lead before the Trawlermen levelled through ex Torquay defender Kieran Charnock and a late penalty from Jamie Milligan.
Should Yeovil win their replay, which takes place a week on Tuesday, their reward will be a home tie with Blackpool, who are managed by former Plymouth Argyle boss Ian Holloway, in a repeat of the 2007 League One Play-Off final which the Tangerines won 2-0.
Thursday 1 December 2011
FA CUP 2ND ROUND PREVIEW
Following the elimination of Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City in the first round, Torquay United and Yeovil Town remain as the South West's sole representatives in the 2011-12 FA Cup.
The Gulls travel to Sheffield United in what will be the Blades' first competitive match following the untimely death of Wales manager Gary Speed.
Prior to taking his role with the Welsh national side, Speed had ended his playing career and started his managerial career at Bramall Lane. Many of the current Blades squad have strong links with the former Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Wales midfielder and the match will be an emotional occasion.
Martin Ling has one selection headache ahead of the tie as midfielder Damon Lathrope will be suspended for the clash after receiving five yellow cards. Gulls defender Chris Robertson will also be facing his former club.
On Friday night, Yeovil Town travel to Lancashire to face Blue Square Premier high flyers Fleetwood Town.
After winning their last two away matches against Hereford United, in the first round of the cup, and Hartlepool United respectively, Terry Skiverton's Glovers will be looking to replicate those performances.
The match, which is being televised live on ESPN, could see talismanic midfielder Gavin Williams' return to action for the first time since early September as he looks set to recover from knee ligament damage.
The Gulls travel to Sheffield United in what will be the Blades' first competitive match following the untimely death of Wales manager Gary Speed.
Prior to taking his role with the Welsh national side, Speed had ended his playing career and started his managerial career at Bramall Lane. Many of the current Blades squad have strong links with the former Leeds, Everton, Newcastle, Bolton and Wales midfielder and the match will be an emotional occasion.
Martin Ling has one selection headache ahead of the tie as midfielder Damon Lathrope will be suspended for the clash after receiving five yellow cards. Gulls defender Chris Robertson will also be facing his former club.
On Friday night, Yeovil Town travel to Lancashire to face Blue Square Premier high flyers Fleetwood Town.
After winning their last two away matches against Hereford United, in the first round of the cup, and Hartlepool United respectively, Terry Skiverton's Glovers will be looking to replicate those performances.
The match, which is being televised live on ESPN, could see talismanic midfielder Gavin Williams' return to action for the first time since early September as he looks set to recover from knee ligament damage.
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