Torquay United captain Lee Mansell has joined the select band of players who have won the Gulls' Player of the Year award twice after winning the award for the 2011-12 campaign.
Mansell, who also won the Npower Player of the Month award in March and was named in the PFA League Two Team of the Year, joins Mike Mahoney (1972-73 & 1973-74), Colin Anderson (1982-83 & 1983-84) and Kevin Hill (1999-00 & 2005-06) to be chosen as the Gulls' Player of the Year on two occasions, as he alson won the prize in the 2006-07 season.
During the current campaign, Mansell has scored 13 goals and chipped in with nine assists after being restored to his favoured position of central midfield after Martin Ling's arrival as manager in the summer, following Paul Buckle's departure to Bristol Rovers.
Ling was quick to praise his captain on lifting the award and singled out his professionalism and leadership qualities.
"Lee is the heartbeat of our team." said Ling. "He is always prepared to go the extra mile, whether it's in training or on the pitch, and everybody else follows his lead. He is a great captain to have and his season has been beyond all our expectations, especially on goal-return."
This sentiment was shared by assistant manager Shaun Taylor. He said: "There have been a number of excellent performers but for his overall contribution, it had to go to Lee Mansell. It is not easy being a captain and he has led by example."
Player of the Year Runner-up and fellow PFA Team of the Year member goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik also echoed the views of his manager and assistant manager.
He said: "It had to go to Lee Mansell, not just for his goals, but the fact he keeps everyone going on the pitch and in the dressing room with his positive attitude. When the going gets tough, he is the first to dig in and encourage."
After drawing 1-1 with Crewe yesterday, the Gulls remain fourth in League Two and need a win to be in with a chance of clinching the final automatic promotion place.
If Torquay win promotion this season then Mansell would join another two select group of Gulls players. Those who have led Torquay to promotion and whose who have won two promotions whilst at Plainmoor, as he was also part of the side that won promotion from the Conference in 2009.
Sunday 29 April 2012
Friday 27 April 2012
THE FINAL FURLONG
Four League Two team of the season berths, two Manager of the Month and two Player of the Month awards won, but the single prize of automatic promotion remains up for grabs for Torquay United.
During the season so far, manager Martin Ling has scooped the Manager of the Month accolades for January and March and two of his charges, Mark Ellis and Lee Mansell, lifted the Player of the Month gongs for the corresponding months.
More recently, Mansell was also voted in the PFA League Two team of the year for the 2011-12 along with three of his team-mates, Bobby Olejnik, Kevin Nicholson and Eunan O'Kane, the largest Gulls contingent to feature in any such side.
Going into their final two games of the campaign, Torquay go into their last two games knowing they need to better whatever Crawley Town, currently sitting in third place, can achieve in their respective fixtures.
The situation the Gulls find themselves in is similar to the one that Leroy Rosenior's automatic promotion winning team of the 2003-04 season.
Torquay lay three points behind Huddersfield Town with two games to go before clinching four points in their final two matches to secure the club's first automatic promotion in 38 years.
Two years, Martin Ling found himself in the same position as manager of Leyton Orient who vying for the final automatic promotion spot from League Two with Grimsby Town.
Orient were fourth in the table with 75 points, which was one less than the Mariners who were on 76.
Ling then steered the East London outfit to two wins in their final two games against Peterborough and Oxford to achieve Orient Chairman Barry Hearn's dream of promotion whilst Grimsby could only draw their final two games and forced to settle for the Play-Offs.
Fast forward to 2012 and Torquay United and Ling are both currently involved in the same scenario all over again.
Also, the Gulls penultimate home fixture is against Crewe Alexandra, nearly 25 years to the day when Torquay drew 2-2 in the game where Bryn the Police Dog sunk his teeth into Jim McNichol, which forced the game into extra time that enabled Paul Dobson to score a late equaliser.
Footnote: The Oxford United side that Martin Ling's Leyton Orient defeated to clinch automatic promotion on the final day of the 2005-06 season featured two future Plainmoor favourites in the form of Lee Mansell and Chris Hargreaves.
During the season so far, manager Martin Ling has scooped the Manager of the Month accolades for January and March and two of his charges, Mark Ellis and Lee Mansell, lifted the Player of the Month gongs for the corresponding months.
More recently, Mansell was also voted in the PFA League Two team of the year for the 2011-12 along with three of his team-mates, Bobby Olejnik, Kevin Nicholson and Eunan O'Kane, the largest Gulls contingent to feature in any such side.
Going into their final two games of the campaign, Torquay go into their last two games knowing they need to better whatever Crawley Town, currently sitting in third place, can achieve in their respective fixtures.
The situation the Gulls find themselves in is similar to the one that Leroy Rosenior's automatic promotion winning team of the 2003-04 season.
Torquay lay three points behind Huddersfield Town with two games to go before clinching four points in their final two matches to secure the club's first automatic promotion in 38 years.
Two years, Martin Ling found himself in the same position as manager of Leyton Orient who vying for the final automatic promotion spot from League Two with Grimsby Town.
Orient were fourth in the table with 75 points, which was one less than the Mariners who were on 76.
Ling then steered the East London outfit to two wins in their final two games against Peterborough and Oxford to achieve Orient Chairman Barry Hearn's dream of promotion whilst Grimsby could only draw their final two games and forced to settle for the Play-Offs.
Fast forward to 2012 and Torquay United and Ling are both currently involved in the same scenario all over again.
Also, the Gulls penultimate home fixture is against Crewe Alexandra, nearly 25 years to the day when Torquay drew 2-2 in the game where Bryn the Police Dog sunk his teeth into Jim McNichol, which forced the game into extra time that enabled Paul Dobson to score a late equaliser.
Footnote: The Oxford United side that Martin Ling's Leyton Orient defeated to clinch automatic promotion on the final day of the 2005-06 season featured two future Plainmoor favourites in the form of Lee Mansell and Chris Hargreaves.
Tuesday 24 April 2012
IN GOOD COMPANY
In having four players selected in the League Two team of the year, Torquay United find themselves in the same company as Manchester City and Charlton Athletic who also had four players included in their divisional representative sides.
Manchester City, currently the richest club in the world, had four players selected in the Premier League Team of the Year, whilst Charlton Athletic, who have amassed more points than anyone else in the top four divisions, saw four of the players included in the League One Team of the Year.
Gulls boss Martin Ling was quick to praise Bobby Olejnik, Kevin Nicholson, Lee Mansell and Eunan O'Kane for their selection.
However, he was also keen to remind his charges that there is still work to be done between now and the end of the season.
"It is a phenomenal achievement for the club, especially for the four players involved, but also the other 19 in the squad," said Ling.
"It is a brilliant representation of us as a football club. I was sat there with Shaun Taylor, Kenny Veysey and Damian Davey at the ceremony last night, and we were four very proud men.
"The fact Manchester City had four and they are sitting second in the Premier League, Charlton had four and they are already promoted from League 1, sums up what other clubs think of us.
"I was voted in the Team of the Year back in 1999 and Shaun Taylor has been in it two or three times, and we both agree it is a medal sitting proudly at home because it is voted by players that you play against.
"I've said many times that I see Bobby as the number one 'keeper in the bottom two leagues. Kevin Nicholson has been a solid defender, who gives us plenty going forward. Eunan, as I've also said before, is key to us passing the ball well and Manse is the heartbeat to our team.
"They all thoroughly deserve this award but there is work to do over the last two games. Our right-back, Joe Oastler, was quoted in the Sun newspaper as saying we've achieved nothing if we don't get promoted, and I would totally go along with that.
"We've had success this season if we come in the top seven but promotion is the only way we can be successful."
Manchester City, currently the richest club in the world, had four players selected in the Premier League Team of the Year, whilst Charlton Athletic, who have amassed more points than anyone else in the top four divisions, saw four of the players included in the League One Team of the Year.
Gulls boss Martin Ling was quick to praise Bobby Olejnik, Kevin Nicholson, Lee Mansell and Eunan O'Kane for their selection.
However, he was also keen to remind his charges that there is still work to be done between now and the end of the season.
"It is a phenomenal achievement for the club, especially for the four players involved, but also the other 19 in the squad," said Ling.
"It is a brilliant representation of us as a football club. I was sat there with Shaun Taylor, Kenny Veysey and Damian Davey at the ceremony last night, and we were four very proud men.
"The fact Manchester City had four and they are sitting second in the Premier League, Charlton had four and they are already promoted from League 1, sums up what other clubs think of us.
"I was voted in the Team of the Year back in 1999 and Shaun Taylor has been in it two or three times, and we both agree it is a medal sitting proudly at home because it is voted by players that you play against.
"I've said many times that I see Bobby as the number one 'keeper in the bottom two leagues. Kevin Nicholson has been a solid defender, who gives us plenty going forward. Eunan, as I've also said before, is key to us passing the ball well and Manse is the heartbeat to our team.
"They all thoroughly deserve this award but there is work to do over the last two games. Our right-back, Joe Oastler, was quoted in the Sun newspaper as saying we've achieved nothing if we don't get promoted, and I would totally go along with that.
"We've had success this season if we come in the top seven but promotion is the only way we can be successful."
Monday 23 April 2012
PREVIOUS NOMINEES
In being named in the PFA League Two team of the season, Bobby Olejnik, Kevin Nicholson, Lee Mansell and Eunan O'Kane have joined a select list of former Torquay favourites to receive the honour.
The first Gulls' nominee came back in the 1975-76 season when left back Phil Sandercock became the first Torquay United to be selected.
Four years later, goalkeeper John Turner became the second Gulls' player to make the end of season team, although he had departed for Chesterfield in February 1980.
It would be a long wait before the next Torquay United representative would be included in the divisional XI, eighteen years to be precise, when Rodney Jack was chosen in the 1997-98 side.
Unfortunately for Jack, he was denied a double celebration as Torquay were defeated in the Division Three Play-Off final that season by Colchester United.
Also featuring in that side was current Gulls' boss Martin Ling who was then plying his trade with Leyton Orient.
Five years later, Alex Russell was chosen for his sterling displays in midfield as Torquay narrowly missed out on the Play-Offs in Leroy Rosenior's first season in charge.
Russell was selected again in the following campaign, becoming the only Gulls player to be chosen twice, alongwith David Graham as Torquay clinched automatic promotion for the first time in 38 years.
Last season, central defender Guy Branston was nominated as the Gulls once again found themselves in contention for promotion as they were narrowly beaten by Stevenage in the League Two Play-Off at Old Trafford.
The first Gulls' nominee came back in the 1975-76 season when left back Phil Sandercock became the first Torquay United to be selected.
Four years later, goalkeeper John Turner became the second Gulls' player to make the end of season team, although he had departed for Chesterfield in February 1980.
It would be a long wait before the next Torquay United representative would be included in the divisional XI, eighteen years to be precise, when Rodney Jack was chosen in the 1997-98 side.
Unfortunately for Jack, he was denied a double celebration as Torquay were defeated in the Division Three Play-Off final that season by Colchester United.
Also featuring in that side was current Gulls' boss Martin Ling who was then plying his trade with Leyton Orient.
Five years later, Alex Russell was chosen for his sterling displays in midfield as Torquay narrowly missed out on the Play-Offs in Leroy Rosenior's first season in charge.
Russell was selected again in the following campaign, becoming the only Gulls player to be chosen twice, alongwith David Graham as Torquay clinched automatic promotion for the first time in 38 years.
Last season, central defender Guy Branston was nominated as the Gulls once again found themselves in contention for promotion as they were narrowly beaten by Stevenage in the League Two Play-Off at Old Trafford.
FOUR GULLS SELECTED
Torquay United have received further recognition for the fine season they are currently enjoying after having four players selected in the League Two PFA Select XI for the 2011-12 campaign.
Goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik, left back Kevin Nicholson, skipper Lee Mansell and midfield playmaker Eunan O'Kane were all chosen by their fellow professionals, providing the largest contingent from any one club in League Two in the side.
All four individuals have enjoyed excellent seasons under the guidance of Martin Ling.
Olejnik has been described by Ling as 'the best goalkeeper he has ever worked with' and has kept 20 clean sheets this season, which is a club record.
Nicholson has established himself as one of the leading left backs in League Two and has chipped in with his fair share of goals, including his wonder strike against Barnet at Plainmoor last December.
Mansell has been a revelation since Ling switched him back to the centre of midfield, after spending two and a half seasons deployed at right back under Paul Buckle.
He has scored an incredible 13 goals from midfield and lifted the Npower Player of the Month award for March.
O'Kane's inclusion in the side also represents fiurther recognition for the young Irishman after he was voted fifth in a poll of the best players in Npower League Two, which was voted for by the division's managers.
Highlights for O'Kane this season include his stunning brace in the Gulls' 3-1 win over Plymouth Argyle in November, which was their biggest ever victory over the Pilgrims and their first in the league in nearly 40 years.
Goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik, left back Kevin Nicholson, skipper Lee Mansell and midfield playmaker Eunan O'Kane were all chosen by their fellow professionals, providing the largest contingent from any one club in League Two in the side.
All four individuals have enjoyed excellent seasons under the guidance of Martin Ling.
Olejnik has been described by Ling as 'the best goalkeeper he has ever worked with' and has kept 20 clean sheets this season, which is a club record.
Nicholson has established himself as one of the leading left backs in League Two and has chipped in with his fair share of goals, including his wonder strike against Barnet at Plainmoor last December.
Mansell has been a revelation since Ling switched him back to the centre of midfield, after spending two and a half seasons deployed at right back under Paul Buckle.
He has scored an incredible 13 goals from midfield and lifted the Npower Player of the Month award for March.
O'Kane's inclusion in the side also represents fiurther recognition for the young Irishman after he was voted fifth in a poll of the best players in Npower League Two, which was voted for by the division's managers.
Highlights for O'Kane this season include his stunning brace in the Gulls' 3-1 win over Plymouth Argyle in November, which was their biggest ever victory over the Pilgrims and their first in the league in nearly 40 years.
THE FULL TEAM
Bobby Olejnik - Torquay United
Paul Caddis - Swindon Town
Kyle McFadzean - Crawley Town
Ian Sharps - Shrewsbury Town
Kevin Nicholson - Torquay United
Matt Ritchie - Swindon Town
Marlon Pack - Cheltenham Town
Eunan O'Kane - Torquay United
Lee Mansell - Torquay United
Izale McLeod - Barnet
Tyrone Barnett - Crawley Town
Sunday 22 April 2012
STATUS SECURED
Plymouth Argyle have ensured that league football will be played at Home Park next season after they drew 1-1 with Oxford United.
A free-kick from left-back Robbie Williams after 84 seconds sent the Pilgrims on their way before the U's equalised through a stunning strike from Asa Hall in the 36th minute.
Despite this setback, Argyle still managed to secure their Football League status as Hereford could only draw against Northampton Town and Macclesfield were beaten by Bradford City.
The result represented the end of an epic journey for Fletcher, his backroom staff and his players.
When he was first appointed as Caretaker Manager following the dismissal of Peter Reid, the Pilgrims were rooted to the bottom of League Two with just a solitary point, secured on the opening day of the season against Shrewsbury Town courtesy of a late equaliser from Fletcher himself.
What he has achieved is made even more remarkable when you consider that in the previous two seasons prior to the current campaign, the Pilgrims had experienced back-to-back relegations.
A third demotion, which would have seen Argyle drop into the Blue Square Premier, could have put the Pilgrims in a very difficult position as the Conference has proved to be a very hard league to escape from for many clubs.
Now that the dust has settled and their Football League status has been confirmed for the 2012-13 campaign, Argyle can now look ahead to climbing back up the footballing pyramid, which they have slid down at an alarming rate in recent seasons.
At his disposal, Fletcher has a number of promising of young players in the form of Matt Lecointe, Luke Young, Jared Sims and Curtis Nelson who have all agreed new contracts to remain at Home Park.
With more experienced heads such as Paul Wotton and Nick Chadwick under contract for next season, there is already the basis of a squad which could in time potentially lead the Pilgrims to promotion from League Two.
A free-kick from left-back Robbie Williams after 84 seconds sent the Pilgrims on their way before the U's equalised through a stunning strike from Asa Hall in the 36th minute.
Despite this setback, Argyle still managed to secure their Football League status as Hereford could only draw against Northampton Town and Macclesfield were beaten by Bradford City.
The result represented the end of an epic journey for Fletcher, his backroom staff and his players.
When he was first appointed as Caretaker Manager following the dismissal of Peter Reid, the Pilgrims were rooted to the bottom of League Two with just a solitary point, secured on the opening day of the season against Shrewsbury Town courtesy of a late equaliser from Fletcher himself.
What he has achieved is made even more remarkable when you consider that in the previous two seasons prior to the current campaign, the Pilgrims had experienced back-to-back relegations.
A third demotion, which would have seen Argyle drop into the Blue Square Premier, could have put the Pilgrims in a very difficult position as the Conference has proved to be a very hard league to escape from for many clubs.
Now that the dust has settled and their Football League status has been confirmed for the 2012-13 campaign, Argyle can now look ahead to climbing back up the footballing pyramid, which they have slid down at an alarming rate in recent seasons.
At his disposal, Fletcher has a number of promising of young players in the form of Matt Lecointe, Luke Young, Jared Sims and Curtis Nelson who have all agreed new contracts to remain at Home Park.
With more experienced heads such as Paul Wotton and Nick Chadwick under contract for next season, there is already the basis of a squad which could in time potentially lead the Pilgrims to promotion from League Two.
Wednesday 18 April 2012
THE FUTURE IS GREEN
Plymouth Argyle's youngsters have given the Green Army something to celebrate by winning the Football League Youth Alliance South West Conference title.
The young greens clinched the prize with a 2-0 win over Swansea City with goals from Jamie Richards and Tyler Harvey.
Their victorious side featured several players who have been involved with the first team squad this season including England Under-18 international Matt Lecointe, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Jed Harper-Penman and Christian Walton.
After a number of difficult campaigns for the Pilgrims, the success of these young hopefuls can hopefully lead to them breaking into the Argyle first team in the near future.
Some of them might go to emulate the likes of Dan Gosling, Joe Mason and Jack Stephens, three players to have graduated from the Pilgrims youth policy in recent years and are now plying their trade at Championship level or above.
Switching quickly back to present, the current day Argyle squad can secure their Football League status for next season, if they can defeat Oxford United at Home Park on Saturday.
The young greens clinched the prize with a 2-0 win over Swansea City with goals from Jamie Richards and Tyler Harvey.
Their victorious side featured several players who have been involved with the first team squad this season including England Under-18 international Matt Lecointe, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Jed Harper-Penman and Christian Walton.
After a number of difficult campaigns for the Pilgrims, the success of these young hopefuls can hopefully lead to them breaking into the Argyle first team in the near future.
Some of them might go to emulate the likes of Dan Gosling, Joe Mason and Jack Stephens, three players to have graduated from the Pilgrims youth policy in recent years and are now plying their trade at Championship level or above.
Switching quickly back to present, the current day Argyle squad can secure their Football League status for next season, if they can defeat Oxford United at Home Park on Saturday.
Sunday 15 April 2012
CLEAN SHEET RECORD BROKEN
By recording a goalless draw with Southend United yesterday, Torquay United have broken a record for the most number of clean sheets in a season.
Manager Martin Ling was pleased to see his side beat the record and also stated that the result keeps his side moving forward as they look to secure a top three finish.
"It was a hard-fought point. I thought that we dug in there but never really tested their keeper," said Martin Ling.
"It was a battling draw and I suppose the pleasing thing is the clean sheet that takes us to 20 now - and produces a new club record for the team. I think if you are building success then that will be built on clean sheets."
"There is a dotted line and we are just above it at the moment, as everybody knows. I think Shrewsbury have gone second and we are third, and although it was a draw this result keeps us moving forward.
"If you look at how we played at Southend in October and how we played this time, they are two different performances. We are now a very good team."
The previous record, which stood at 19, was set by Cyril Knowles' 1987-88 side, who missed out on promotion after losing 5-4 to Swansea City in a two-legged Play-Off final in the days before the final became a one-off end of season showpiece at Wembley.
Ling's team of 2011-12 now have the chance to add to their current total in their remaining games, which include a trip AFC Wimbledon, their final home league encounter against Crewe Alexandra and on the final day of the regular campaign the Gulls travel to Hereford United for a match that could decide the destiny of both sides.
Manager Martin Ling was pleased to see his side beat the record and also stated that the result keeps his side moving forward as they look to secure a top three finish.
"It was a hard-fought point. I thought that we dug in there but never really tested their keeper," said Martin Ling.
"It was a battling draw and I suppose the pleasing thing is the clean sheet that takes us to 20 now - and produces a new club record for the team. I think if you are building success then that will be built on clean sheets."
"There is a dotted line and we are just above it at the moment, as everybody knows. I think Shrewsbury have gone second and we are third, and although it was a draw this result keeps us moving forward.
"If you look at how we played at Southend in October and how we played this time, they are two different performances. We are now a very good team."
The previous record, which stood at 19, was set by Cyril Knowles' 1987-88 side, who missed out on promotion after losing 5-4 to Swansea City in a two-legged Play-Off final in the days before the final became a one-off end of season showpiece at Wembley.
Ling's team of 2011-12 now have the chance to add to their current total in their remaining games, which include a trip AFC Wimbledon, their final home league encounter against Crewe Alexandra and on the final day of the regular campaign the Gulls travel to Hereford United for a match that could decide the destiny of both sides.
Friday 13 April 2012
PLAINMOOR FAITHFUL SPOILT FOR CHOICE IN PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARDS
With voting already under way in the Torquay United Player of the Year award for the current campaign, Plainmoor faithful find themselves with plenty of candidates to choose from.
A yardstick of how tough the field of competition actually is, midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who recently came fifth in a poll amongst League Two managers to find the best player in the division, and left back Kevin Nicholson, a player who has established himself as one of the best in League Two in his position, aren't considered favourites to lift the prize.
However, both individuals have produced some moments of brilliance this season and anyone who witnessed them will tell you that O'Kane's opening goal in the Gulls' 3-1 devon derby win over Plymouth Argyle in November and Nicholson's strike against Barnet in December are amongst the best goals seen at Plainmoor in many a year.
Other candidates with a strong case include Damon Lathrope whose role as a midfield anchorman, since manager Martin Ling introduced the 4-1-4-1 formation at the end of October, has proved to be crucial in his first full campaign as a first team regular.
Another player whose position forms a crucial part of Ling's system is lone striker Rene Howe. After spending a number of years out on loan during his time at his previous club, Peterborough United, Howe has now found himself a home at Plainmoor and is currently the Gulls' top scorer with 14 goals and could yet add to that tally.
Centre backs Mark Ellis and Brian Saah also deserve a mention for their displays in the centre of defence and have formed a partnership that is a match for any forward line in the division. Ellis also won the Npower League Two Player of the Month award for January.
Wide man Danny Stevens also presents a strong case after finding the back of the net nine times this season, the most prolific goal scoring campaign that a Gulls' winger has enjoyed in many a year.
Next up are the two players who are widely tipped to be the two front runners for the main prize, goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik and skipper Lee Mansell.
Former Austrian Under-21 keeper Olejnik arrived from Falkirk in the summer and he played a hugely important role in helping the Gulls' defence equal a club record for the most clean sheets in a single season, which currently stands at 19.
Goalkeepers have traditionally performed well in the award in previous seasons with former winners including Mike Mahoney, John Turner, Kenny Allen, current Gulls goalkeeper coach Ken Veysey, Neville Southall and Kevin Dearden.
He has also been described by Ling as the best keeper that he has ever worked with.
Long serving Mansell, he has been at Plainmoor since 2006, has been a revelation since he was switched from right back to centre midfield scoring 13 goals and winning the Npower Player of the Month award for March.
His leadership skills have also spurred the Gulls on get a number of crucial results during the campaign.
Nevertheless one thing is for certain, however receives the Player of the Year award for the 2011-12 campaign, it is highly likely that they would swap winning the award for the collective prize of promotion, which is still very much up for grabs.
A yardstick of how tough the field of competition actually is, midfielder Eunan O'Kane, who recently came fifth in a poll amongst League Two managers to find the best player in the division, and left back Kevin Nicholson, a player who has established himself as one of the best in League Two in his position, aren't considered favourites to lift the prize.
However, both individuals have produced some moments of brilliance this season and anyone who witnessed them will tell you that O'Kane's opening goal in the Gulls' 3-1 devon derby win over Plymouth Argyle in November and Nicholson's strike against Barnet in December are amongst the best goals seen at Plainmoor in many a year.
Other candidates with a strong case include Damon Lathrope whose role as a midfield anchorman, since manager Martin Ling introduced the 4-1-4-1 formation at the end of October, has proved to be crucial in his first full campaign as a first team regular.
Another player whose position forms a crucial part of Ling's system is lone striker Rene Howe. After spending a number of years out on loan during his time at his previous club, Peterborough United, Howe has now found himself a home at Plainmoor and is currently the Gulls' top scorer with 14 goals and could yet add to that tally.
Centre backs Mark Ellis and Brian Saah also deserve a mention for their displays in the centre of defence and have formed a partnership that is a match for any forward line in the division. Ellis also won the Npower League Two Player of the Month award for January.
Wide man Danny Stevens also presents a strong case after finding the back of the net nine times this season, the most prolific goal scoring campaign that a Gulls' winger has enjoyed in many a year.
Next up are the two players who are widely tipped to be the two front runners for the main prize, goalkeeper Bobby Olejnik and skipper Lee Mansell.
Former Austrian Under-21 keeper Olejnik arrived from Falkirk in the summer and he played a hugely important role in helping the Gulls' defence equal a club record for the most clean sheets in a single season, which currently stands at 19.
Goalkeepers have traditionally performed well in the award in previous seasons with former winners including Mike Mahoney, John Turner, Kenny Allen, current Gulls goalkeeper coach Ken Veysey, Neville Southall and Kevin Dearden.
He has also been described by Ling as the best keeper that he has ever worked with.
Long serving Mansell, he has been at Plainmoor since 2006, has been a revelation since he was switched from right back to centre midfield scoring 13 goals and winning the Npower Player of the Month award for March.
His leadership skills have also spurred the Gulls on get a number of crucial results during the campaign.
Nevertheless one thing is for certain, however receives the Player of the Year award for the 2011-12 campaign, it is highly likely that they would swap winning the award for the collective prize of promotion, which is still very much up for grabs.
GRECIANS HEAD NORTH IN OPTIMISTIC MOOD
Last season, Exeter City and Rochdale finished 8th and 9th in League One respectively.
However, fast forward to the current campaign and defeat in the clash between the two sides tomorrow at Spotland could send the loser heading for League Two.
The Grecians are currently eight points adrift of safety and go into the game knowing they need to win if they are to stand any chance of beating the drop.
This was a pressure which they faced going into their Easter Monday encounter with Leyton Orient, who currently occupy the position above the League One relegation, which they won 3-0.
Jake Taylor opened the scoring for Exeter before Liam Sercombe bagged a brace and a similar result against Rochdale would set them up nicely for their final three fixtures.
Next up, the Grecians face Walsall at home before a long trip to Play-Off chasing Carlisle United before their final fixture of the campaign against Sheffield United at St James' Park on the final day of the campaign.
However, fast forward to the current campaign and defeat in the clash between the two sides tomorrow at Spotland could send the loser heading for League Two.
The Grecians are currently eight points adrift of safety and go into the game knowing they need to win if they are to stand any chance of beating the drop.
This was a pressure which they faced going into their Easter Monday encounter with Leyton Orient, who currently occupy the position above the League One relegation, which they won 3-0.
Jake Taylor opened the scoring for Exeter before Liam Sercombe bagged a brace and a similar result against Rochdale would set them up nicely for their final three fixtures.
Next up, the Grecians face Walsall at home before a long trip to Play-Off chasing Carlisle United before their final fixture of the campaign against Sheffield United at St James' Park on the final day of the campaign.
Wednesday 11 April 2012
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Following their Easter Monday draw against Oxford United, Torquay United head into their final four games of the season in second place on 79 points.
The Gulls sit one point clear third place Shrewsbury Town and three ahead of Crawley Town, who have recently appointed Steve Coppell as Director of Football, in fourth.
Whilst Martin Ling's have enjoyed the benefits of stability in the centre of defence and midfield, Ling has only named four centre backs this season (Brian Saah, Mark Ellis, loan signing Angus MacDonald and the departed Chris Robertson) and five central midfielders (Lee Mansell, Eunan O'Kane, Damon Lathrope, Ian Morris and Chris McPhee).
However, he has used a different array of forwards and two of his current roster of strikers could yet play a vital role in helping Torquay secure a top three finish.
Kenyan striker Taiwo Atieno, who scored his fifth goal of the season against Oxford on Monday, has spent much of the season playing second fiddle to 14-goal leading scorer, Rene Howe.
Nevertheless, when he has been called upon to do so, Atieno has scored a number of crucial goals this season, including the one he scored against current League Two leaders, Swindon, on Boxing Day as well as his most recent effort at the Kassam Stadium.
Recent loan acquisition, Ryan Jarvis, has also made an impact since his temporary switch from Walsall at the beginning of March, having scored the winner in the Gulls' 2-1 win over Port Vale and providing the assist for Howe's winner against Accrington Stanley on Good Friday.
Jarvis also worked with Ling during his reign as Leyton Orient manager where he scored six goals in 14 games during a loan spell at the Matchroom Stadium in the 2006-07 season. He could yet have another telling contribution to make for Ling as the Gulls look to reach League One.
The Gulls sit one point clear third place Shrewsbury Town and three ahead of Crawley Town, who have recently appointed Steve Coppell as Director of Football, in fourth.
Whilst Martin Ling's have enjoyed the benefits of stability in the centre of defence and midfield, Ling has only named four centre backs this season (Brian Saah, Mark Ellis, loan signing Angus MacDonald and the departed Chris Robertson) and five central midfielders (Lee Mansell, Eunan O'Kane, Damon Lathrope, Ian Morris and Chris McPhee).
However, he has used a different array of forwards and two of his current roster of strikers could yet play a vital role in helping Torquay secure a top three finish.
Kenyan striker Taiwo Atieno, who scored his fifth goal of the season against Oxford on Monday, has spent much of the season playing second fiddle to 14-goal leading scorer, Rene Howe.
Nevertheless, when he has been called upon to do so, Atieno has scored a number of crucial goals this season, including the one he scored against current League Two leaders, Swindon, on Boxing Day as well as his most recent effort at the Kassam Stadium.
Recent loan acquisition, Ryan Jarvis, has also made an impact since his temporary switch from Walsall at the beginning of March, having scored the winner in the Gulls' 2-1 win over Port Vale and providing the assist for Howe's winner against Accrington Stanley on Good Friday.
Jarvis also worked with Ling during his reign as Leyton Orient manager where he scored six goals in 14 games during a loan spell at the Matchroom Stadium in the 2006-07 season. He could yet have another telling contribution to make for Ling as the Gulls look to reach League One.
Saturday 7 April 2012
HOWE SECURES MORE RECOGNITION FOR LING AND CO
A 73rd minute strike from Rene Howe gave Torquay United manager Martin Ling more to celebrate as the Gulls strengthen their grip on automatic promotion by beating Accrington Stanley.
Ling had received his second Manager of the Month award of the season before kick-off, he also won the prize in January, which he received on the back of six wins in eight matches during March and skipper Lee Mansell also received the Player of the Month award.
After the game, Ling said that he is happy to see his side continue to grind out results.
"If we can get five 1-0's between now and the end of the season then we'll take that." said Ling.
"It's getting to the stage of the season where performances are not as good as they have been, players are looking nervy and edgy, but the players are getting the results when needed.
"The games are getting bigger and the crowds are getting bigger, but the prize is still as big as anything in football, promotion from a league at the end of a long hard season. Other results went for us and it's in our own hands so we continue to plough on."
One person who had a big say in Ling receiving the award was forrmer Charlton and West Ham boss, Alan Curbishley, who is currently the head of the npower Manager of the Month judging panel.
"Martin has overseen another incredible month for Torquay, taking 19 invaluable points. They have now secured a top three spot and look strong candidates for promotion."
Skipper Lee Mansell also becomes the second Gulls player to receive the Player of the Month award this season, the other was Mark Ellis who ironically won the award in the same month that Ling lifted the managerial prize.
His performances in March, which saw him score four goals in eight matches received praise from Sky Sports Football League pundit Peter Beagrie.
"Midfield maestro Lee Mansell drove his Torquay side from sixth place to second in a marvellous March," said Beagrie.
"Mansell covered every blade of grass, destroying and creating. The all-action midfielder also found the net on four occasions."
Following Good Friday's matches, the Gulls are now three points ahead of third placed Shrewsbury Town and five clear of Crawley Town in fourth.
Ling had received his second Manager of the Month award of the season before kick-off, he also won the prize in January, which he received on the back of six wins in eight matches during March and skipper Lee Mansell also received the Player of the Month award.
After the game, Ling said that he is happy to see his side continue to grind out results.
"If we can get five 1-0's between now and the end of the season then we'll take that." said Ling.
"It's getting to the stage of the season where performances are not as good as they have been, players are looking nervy and edgy, but the players are getting the results when needed.
"The games are getting bigger and the crowds are getting bigger, but the prize is still as big as anything in football, promotion from a league at the end of a long hard season. Other results went for us and it's in our own hands so we continue to plough on."
One person who had a big say in Ling receiving the award was forrmer Charlton and West Ham boss, Alan Curbishley, who is currently the head of the npower Manager of the Month judging panel.
"Martin has overseen another incredible month for Torquay, taking 19 invaluable points. They have now secured a top three spot and look strong candidates for promotion."
Skipper Lee Mansell also becomes the second Gulls player to receive the Player of the Month award this season, the other was Mark Ellis who ironically won the award in the same month that Ling lifted the managerial prize.
His performances in March, which saw him score four goals in eight matches received praise from Sky Sports Football League pundit Peter Beagrie.
"Midfield maestro Lee Mansell drove his Torquay side from sixth place to second in a marvellous March," said Beagrie.
"Mansell covered every blade of grass, destroying and creating. The all-action midfielder also found the net on four occasions."
Following Good Friday's matches, the Gulls are now three points ahead of third placed Shrewsbury Town and five clear of Crawley Town in fourth.
Wednesday 4 April 2012
GAFFER AND SKIPPER NOMINATED
Another unique double could yet be on the cards for Torquay United as for the second time this season, Torquay United manager Martin Ling has been nominated for the npower League Two Manager of the Month award.
Ling previously won the award for January, after recording five consecutive wins during the month, and then successfully banished the 'curse' of the prize by leading the Gulls to victories in their first two league outings in February.
During the month of March, Ling steered Torquay to six wins in eight games, which has moved the Gulls up to second place in the League Two table. His fellow nominees this time include Northampton Town's Aidy Boothroyd and Crewe Alexandra's Steve Davis.
As in January, one of Ling's charges is also nominated for the Player of the Month award, this time skipper Lee Mansell is chosen nominee, in January Mark Ellis was shortlisted for and won the accolade.
March saw Mansell find the back of the net four times, which featured a brace against Bristol Rovers as the Gulls came from being two goals down to clinch a point.
His fellow contenders are Crewe's David Artell and Dagenham and Redbridge's Mickey Spillane.
Ling previously won the award for January, after recording five consecutive wins during the month, and then successfully banished the 'curse' of the prize by leading the Gulls to victories in their first two league outings in February.
During the month of March, Ling steered Torquay to six wins in eight games, which has moved the Gulls up to second place in the League Two table. His fellow nominees this time include Northampton Town's Aidy Boothroyd and Crewe Alexandra's Steve Davis.
As in January, one of Ling's charges is also nominated for the Player of the Month award, this time skipper Lee Mansell is chosen nominee, in January Mark Ellis was shortlisted for and won the accolade.
March saw Mansell find the back of the net four times, which featured a brace against Bristol Rovers as the Gulls came from being two goals down to clinch a point.
His fellow contenders are Crewe's David Artell and Dagenham and Redbridge's Mickey Spillane.
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