Yeovil Town will cross swords with Sheffield United in the League One Play-Offs after finishing in a club record 4th place in League Two.
The Glovers will face the Blades who finished in 5th place in the league in the first leg at Bramall Lane this coming Friday before the second leg at Huish Park on the following Bank Holiday Monday.
It will be the second time that Yeovil have been involved in an end of season Play-Off showdown since winning promotion to the Football League in 2003.
The last time, of course, came in the 2006-07 season when the Glovers reached the League One Play-Off final, under the guidance of Russell Slade, when they beat Nottingham Forest 5-4 on aggregate after losing the first leg at Huish Park 2-1.
In the final they faced Blackpool where they were beaten 2-0.
A key figure in that side was captain Terry Skiverton who will once again be involved, this time as Gary Johnson's assistant, a role which he has held since Johnson's return to the Huish Park hot seat in January 2012.
The last time that the Glovers visited the Steel City to face the Blades was in January when they returned to Somerset as 2-0 victors with a brace from Paddy Madden.
Earlier in the season when they faced Sheffield United at Huish Park in September, the Blades won 1-0 courtesy of a second half effort from Neil Collins.
Over the two league meetings, the Glovers came out on top 2-1 on aggregate, which must give them some confidence of repeating their performance of 2007, but Johnson has warned them they will need to better than they did in their final day defeat at relegated Bury.
Sunday 28 April 2013
SHERIDAN UPBEAT AFTER KEEPING PILGRIMS UP
John Sheridan has promised that Plymouth Argyle will never again be involved in a relegation battle after helping the Pilgrims avoid relegation to the Conference.
Despite losing 1-0 to Rochdale, Argyle retained their status as a League Two as Dagenham & Redbridge and Barnet both lost their respective fixtures, a combination of results that saw the Bees lose their League status for a second time.
"It's great for everyone involved. It's so important for a lot of people – the city of Plymouth, the players, the people who work at the club," said Sheridan.
"If I'm here next season, believe me, this won't happen again. I can promise you that.
"They have been fighting relegation for the last two or three years.
"I think the players have done really well since I have come in, but we are all different as managers and my standards are different to everyone else.
"Believe me, we won't be near the bottom. If I'm here, we will be near the top because I will get the players, or whoever, I need."
Since Sheridan's arrival as replacement for Carl Fletcher in January, at which point the Pilgrims were 23rd in League Two, Argyle have won 28 points from a possible 19 matches, which meant, despite losing their final two fixtures of the season, they managed to preserve their 93-year status as a Football League club.
During his stay at Home Park, the former Republic of Ireland midfielder won the Manager of the Month award for March as the Pilgrims won four of their six league matches over the course of the month.
His record in the transfer market has also been good with the recruitment of loan signings such as Jason Banton, winner of the League Two Player of the Month prize for March and scorer of the winning goal in the Devon derby victory over Exeter, and Joe Bryan from Bristol City as well as the permanent acquisiton of experienced defender Guy Branston.
Owner James Brent has announced he will be speaking to Sheridan about extending his stay at Home Park and should the outcome of those talks prove to be positive, it will be like music to the ears of the 'Green Army'.
Despite losing 1-0 to Rochdale, Argyle retained their status as a League Two as Dagenham & Redbridge and Barnet both lost their respective fixtures, a combination of results that saw the Bees lose their League status for a second time.
"It's great for everyone involved. It's so important for a lot of people – the city of Plymouth, the players, the people who work at the club," said Sheridan.
"If I'm here next season, believe me, this won't happen again. I can promise you that.
"They have been fighting relegation for the last two or three years.
"I think the players have done really well since I have come in, but we are all different as managers and my standards are different to everyone else.
"Believe me, we won't be near the bottom. If I'm here, we will be near the top because I will get the players, or whoever, I need."
Since Sheridan's arrival as replacement for Carl Fletcher in January, at which point the Pilgrims were 23rd in League Two, Argyle have won 28 points from a possible 19 matches, which meant, despite losing their final two fixtures of the season, they managed to preserve their 93-year status as a Football League club.
During his stay at Home Park, the former Republic of Ireland midfielder won the Manager of the Month award for March as the Pilgrims won four of their six league matches over the course of the month.
His record in the transfer market has also been good with the recruitment of loan signings such as Jason Banton, winner of the League Two Player of the Month prize for March and scorer of the winning goal in the Devon derby victory over Exeter, and Joe Bryan from Bristol City as well as the permanent acquisiton of experienced defender Guy Branston.
Owner James Brent has announced he will be speaking to Sheridan about extending his stay at Home Park and should the outcome of those talks prove to be positive, it will be like music to the ears of the 'Green Army'.
Saturday 27 April 2013
GULLS SAFE FOLLOWING FINAL DAY DRAMA
Throughout Torquay United's recent history, the club have gone into a number of final day matches needing points to secure their league status.
In 1987, Bryn the Police Dog sunk his teeth into Jim McNichol as Torquay drew 2-2 with Crewe Alexandra, 2001 saw the Gulls beat Barnet at Underhill and five years later in 2006 they clinched the point they needed against Boston United to confirm their survival.
Now, in 2013, the Gulls' latest escape act will go down as the day Ryan Jarvis scored at both ends as Torquay shared the points in a six-goal thriller against Bristol Rovers.
After the Pirates took the lead through loanee striker Tom Hitchcock before Michael Poke saved a spot-kick from Lee Brown.
Torquay struck back to equalise through Elliot Benyon before Jarvis headed the back into the back of the net past Poke as Rovers regained their lead.
However, moments later, Jarvis redeemed himself to smash home the Gulls' equaliser and then helped to tee up Benyon for his brace as Torquay steamed ahead for the first time in the match.
Nevertheless, there was to be one final twist, in what was a topsy turvy encounter, as substitute Matt Harrold grabbed a late leveller for the Pirates to make the final scoreline 3-3, but a draw was enough to ensure that Torquay will be playing in League Two next season.
In 1987, Bryn the Police Dog sunk his teeth into Jim McNichol as Torquay drew 2-2 with Crewe Alexandra, 2001 saw the Gulls beat Barnet at Underhill and five years later in 2006 they clinched the point they needed against Boston United to confirm their survival.
Now, in 2013, the Gulls' latest escape act will go down as the day Ryan Jarvis scored at both ends as Torquay shared the points in a six-goal thriller against Bristol Rovers.
After the Pirates took the lead through loanee striker Tom Hitchcock before Michael Poke saved a spot-kick from Lee Brown.
Torquay struck back to equalise through Elliot Benyon before Jarvis headed the back into the back of the net past Poke as Rovers regained their lead.
However, moments later, Jarvis redeemed himself to smash home the Gulls' equaliser and then helped to tee up Benyon for his brace as Torquay steamed ahead for the first time in the match.
Nevertheless, there was to be one final twist, in what was a topsy turvy encounter, as substitute Matt Harrold grabbed a late leveller for the Pirates to make the final scoreline 3-3, but a draw was enough to ensure that Torquay will be playing in League Two next season.
Wednesday 24 April 2013
ALL POSSIBLE PERMUTATIONS
As well as needing a point from their respective fixtures, Torquay and Plymouth could have their fate decided by the outcome of other matches in League Two, which we will now take a closer look at.
AFC Wimbledon currently occupy 23rd place, the final relegation spot, with 50 points to their name heading into their final game at home to Fleetwood to avoid returning to the Conference after only two years in the Football League.
The Dons overturned a two-goal deficit last week against champions Gillingham and will be feeling confident ahead of a meeting with mid-table Fleetwood who have nothing to play for.
A win for Wimbledon would move them onto 53 points and would virtually seal their survival.
However, if Torquay and Argyle both draw then they would both finish above the Dons regardless of their result.
The Daggers and the Minstermen face each in an encounter similar to the one that Torquay faced in the 2000-01 season against Barnet when they needed a win to stay up whilst the Bees required all three.
Victory for the Daggers, currently on 51 points, would see them beat the drop outright without needing to worry about results elsewhere. York, on the other hand, are tied on 52 points with both Torquay and Argyle and require a single point to stay up.
A draw would see both sides keeping their fingers crossed for the outcome of results elsewhere.
The Minstermen, managed by former Norwich City and Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington, head into the game on the back of back-to-back e wins over Northampton Town and Southend United, whilst Dagenham are looking to bounce back from consecutive defeats against Oxford United and Aldershot Town.
York will also be looking to avoid becoming the first team to be relegated back to the Conference one season after winning promotion.
After their dramatic win over Wycombe Wanderers in their final match at Underhill, Edgar Davids' Barnet head to the Sixfields Stadium in search of another three points that would see the Bees retain their Football League status.
A late Jake Hyde strike saw Barnet see off the Chairboys after goalkeeper Graham Stack had saved a Joel Grant penalty.
They will be facing a Northampton who have already sealed a Play-Off spot after they drew with Port Vale last week, but Cobblers' manager Aidy Boothroyd will probably be looking for some momentum heading into the Play-Offs as Northampton are currently without a win in their last five games.
A win for the Bees will guarantee their safety: anything else than that will see them relying of the outcome of other results.
Footnote: Bottom side Aldershot Town are currently on 48 points and could still mathematically survive should they beat Rotherham United at the New York Stadium, but it is not possible for them to catch either Torquay or Argyle.
AFC Wimbledon versus Fleetwood Town
AFC Wimbledon currently occupy 23rd place, the final relegation spot, with 50 points to their name heading into their final game at home to Fleetwood to avoid returning to the Conference after only two years in the Football League.
The Dons overturned a two-goal deficit last week against champions Gillingham and will be feeling confident ahead of a meeting with mid-table Fleetwood who have nothing to play for.
A win for Wimbledon would move them onto 53 points and would virtually seal their survival.
However, if Torquay and Argyle both draw then they would both finish above the Dons regardless of their result.
Dagenham & Redbridge versus York City
The Daggers and the Minstermen face each in an encounter similar to the one that Torquay faced in the 2000-01 season against Barnet when they needed a win to stay up whilst the Bees required all three.
Victory for the Daggers, currently on 51 points, would see them beat the drop outright without needing to worry about results elsewhere. York, on the other hand, are tied on 52 points with both Torquay and Argyle and require a single point to stay up.
A draw would see both sides keeping their fingers crossed for the outcome of results elsewhere.
The Minstermen, managed by former Norwich City and Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington, head into the game on the back of back-to-back e wins over Northampton Town and Southend United, whilst Dagenham are looking to bounce back from consecutive defeats against Oxford United and Aldershot Town.
York will also be looking to avoid becoming the first team to be relegated back to the Conference one season after winning promotion.
Northampton Town versus Barnet
After their dramatic win over Wycombe Wanderers in their final match at Underhill, Edgar Davids' Barnet head to the Sixfields Stadium in search of another three points that would see the Bees retain their Football League status.
A late Jake Hyde strike saw Barnet see off the Chairboys after goalkeeper Graham Stack had saved a Joel Grant penalty.
They will be facing a Northampton who have already sealed a Play-Off spot after they drew with Port Vale last week, but Cobblers' manager Aidy Boothroyd will probably be looking for some momentum heading into the Play-Offs as Northampton are currently without a win in their last five games.
A win for the Bees will guarantee their safety: anything else than that will see them relying of the outcome of other results.
Footnote: Bottom side Aldershot Town are currently on 48 points and could still mathematically survive should they beat Rotherham United at the New York Stadium, but it is not possible for them to catch either Torquay or Argyle.
FINAL DAY DECIDER # THE GULLS
Once again Torquay United find themselves facing a final day decider to ensure that they remain in the Football League.
In 1987, 2001 & 2006, the Gulls gained a positive result to retain their league status and now interim manager Alan Knill is faced with the same task in 2013 and a point from their meeting with Bristol Rovers will be enough.
Their first final day escape in 1987 was sealed with a 2-2 draw with Crewe Alexandra, which will however be remembered as the game when defender Jim McNichol was bitten by Bryn the Police Dog.
This ensured that additional time was added on which allowed the Gulls to equalise through Paul Dobson, thus successfully avoiding the trap door to the Conference as it was Lincoln City and not Torquay who became the first team to be automatically relegated from the Football League.
Fast forward 14 years later and a last day 3-2 victory over Barnet at Underhill seals the Gulls' league in a 'do or die' relegation match, which sees the Bees relegated at Torquay's expense.
Goals from Jason Rees and Kevin Hill gave the Gulls a two-goal cushion before Stuart Jones saved a Darren Currie penalty, which awarded after Jimmy Aggrey was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area by referee Richard Beeby.
David Graham then extended Torquay's lead to three going into the half-time interval before an own goal from Ryan Green and a Wayne Purser effort in the second half from Barnet ensured a tense finish to the game as the Gulls held on to secure the win and their Football League status.
Five years later, a point from their final game at home to Boston United proved to be the climax of their 'great escape' under Ian Atkins following consecutive wins over Macclesfield Town, Wrexham, Stockport County and League Two champions-elect Carlisle United.
Back in the present, consecutive wins over Barnet and Morecambe have eased the fear of relegation at Plainmoor and a minimum of a draw with the Pirates will ensure that the Gulls finish the job.
However, Torquay will be without the services of leading scorer Rene Howe who received his 15th yellow card of the season last Saturday at the Globe Arena against Morecambe.
In 1987, 2001 & 2006, the Gulls gained a positive result to retain their league status and now interim manager Alan Knill is faced with the same task in 2013 and a point from their meeting with Bristol Rovers will be enough.
Their first final day escape in 1987 was sealed with a 2-2 draw with Crewe Alexandra, which will however be remembered as the game when defender Jim McNichol was bitten by Bryn the Police Dog.
This ensured that additional time was added on which allowed the Gulls to equalise through Paul Dobson, thus successfully avoiding the trap door to the Conference as it was Lincoln City and not Torquay who became the first team to be automatically relegated from the Football League.
Fast forward 14 years later and a last day 3-2 victory over Barnet at Underhill seals the Gulls' league in a 'do or die' relegation match, which sees the Bees relegated at Torquay's expense.
Goals from Jason Rees and Kevin Hill gave the Gulls a two-goal cushion before Stuart Jones saved a Darren Currie penalty, which awarded after Jimmy Aggrey was adjudged to have handled the ball in the area by referee Richard Beeby.
David Graham then extended Torquay's lead to three going into the half-time interval before an own goal from Ryan Green and a Wayne Purser effort in the second half from Barnet ensured a tense finish to the game as the Gulls held on to secure the win and their Football League status.
Five years later, a point from their final game at home to Boston United proved to be the climax of their 'great escape' under Ian Atkins following consecutive wins over Macclesfield Town, Wrexham, Stockport County and League Two champions-elect Carlisle United.
Back in the present, consecutive wins over Barnet and Morecambe have eased the fear of relegation at Plainmoor and a minimum of a draw with the Pirates will ensure that the Gulls finish the job.
However, Torquay will be without the services of leading scorer Rene Howe who received his 15th yellow card of the season last Saturday at the Globe Arena against Morecambe.
FINAL DAY DECIDER # THE PILGRIMS
One point from their final league fixture away to Rochdale will see Plymouth Argyle retain their 93 -year status as a Football League club.
Following their 1-0 defeat against promotion chasing Rotherham last Saturday, the Pilgrims need a point from their final game to Dale to ensure they will be playing League Two football in the 2013-14 season.
After the Millers' game, manager John Sheridan has called on every Pilgrims' fan who is able to attend to turn up in East Lancashire and support the team.
The 'Green Army' have responded positively to Sheridan's call as 1,500 tickets have been sent to Home Park by Rochdale and fans will also be able to 'pay on the day'.
Spotland holds happy memories for many of the travelling Pilgrims' support as the corresponding fixture in the 2001-02 saw Argyle win 3-1 with goals from Marino Keith, Graham Coughlan and Lee Hodges and secured them promotion from Division Three.
The Pilgrims later went on to lift the 3rd Division title with a record points haul of 102.
Managing the opposition on Saturday will be former Argyle defender Keith Hill who spent four years at Home Park between 1992 and 1996 who recently penned a three-year deal with Dale.
Following their 1-0 defeat against promotion chasing Rotherham last Saturday, the Pilgrims need a point from their final game to Dale to ensure they will be playing League Two football in the 2013-14 season.
After the Millers' game, manager John Sheridan has called on every Pilgrims' fan who is able to attend to turn up in East Lancashire and support the team.
The 'Green Army' have responded positively to Sheridan's call as 1,500 tickets have been sent to Home Park by Rochdale and fans will also be able to 'pay on the day'.
Spotland holds happy memories for many of the travelling Pilgrims' support as the corresponding fixture in the 2001-02 saw Argyle win 3-1 with goals from Marino Keith, Graham Coughlan and Lee Hodges and secured them promotion from Division Three.
The Pilgrims later went on to lift the 3rd Division title with a record points haul of 102.
Managing the opposition on Saturday will be former Argyle defender Keith Hill who spent four years at Home Park between 1992 and 1996 who recently penned a three-year deal with Dale.
Wednesday 17 April 2013
JOHNSON THE YOUNGER DEFEATS JOHNSON THE ELDER
The younger Johnson came out on top of the elder Johnson in League One's father-son managerial duel as Lee Johnson's Oldham Athletic defeated dad Gary's Yeovil Town at Boundary Park.
A header from Matt Smith, who starred for the Latics in their FA Cup battles with Liverpool and Everton this season, proved to be decisive and also condemned Oldham's fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Hartlepool United to relegation to League Two.
Following the result, the Glovers find themselves in 5th place as they remain on course for the end-of-season Play-Offs and their final league position will determine who they face in the semi-finals.
The fixture was the first father versus son managerial meeting since 1971 when Bill Dodgin's Bristol Rovers faced Bill Dodgin junior's Fulham.
A header from Matt Smith, who starred for the Latics in their FA Cup battles with Liverpool and Everton this season, proved to be decisive and also condemned Oldham's fellow strugglers Portsmouth and Hartlepool United to relegation to League Two.
Following the result, the Glovers find themselves in 5th place as they remain on course for the end-of-season Play-Offs and their final league position will determine who they face in the semi-finals.
The fixture was the first father versus son managerial meeting since 1971 when Bill Dodgin's Bristol Rovers faced Bill Dodgin junior's Fulham.
GULLS AND PILGRIMS TAKE ONE STEP CLOSER TO SAFETY
Just as in 2001, a end of season victory for Torquay United over Barnet moved them closer to securing their League Two status.
The Gulls took a first half lead through Elliot Benyon before Jake Hyde equalised for the Bees.
Hyde's leveller was shortly cancelled out by Billy Bodin before Brian Saah added a third for Torquay before Hyde completed his brace to set up a tense finale, but the Gulls held on to win by the same scoreline as in 2001.
Torquay now only require a win from their remaining two fixtures, away at Morecambe and home to Bristol Rovers, to guarantee their survival.
Plymouth Argyle go into Saturday's final home game with Rotherham United needing just a point after winning 2-1 against manager John Sheridan's former club Chesterfield.
The Pilgrims returned from the Proact Stadium with all three points, which moves them up to 17th in the League Two table, thanks to first half strikes from Bristol City loanee Joe Bryan and Curtis Nelson, proving that there is life after Jason Banton who was recalled by Crystal Palace over the weekend.
Despite a second half own goal from Guy Branston, Argyle held on to wrap up maximum points, which places them on 52 points, four clear of the drop zone with two games remaining.
The Gulls took a first half lead through Elliot Benyon before Jake Hyde equalised for the Bees.
Hyde's leveller was shortly cancelled out by Billy Bodin before Brian Saah added a third for Torquay before Hyde completed his brace to set up a tense finale, but the Gulls held on to win by the same scoreline as in 2001.
Torquay now only require a win from their remaining two fixtures, away at Morecambe and home to Bristol Rovers, to guarantee their survival.
Plymouth Argyle go into Saturday's final home game with Rotherham United needing just a point after winning 2-1 against manager John Sheridan's former club Chesterfield.
The Pilgrims returned from the Proact Stadium with all three points, which moves them up to 17th in the League Two table, thanks to first half strikes from Bristol City loanee Joe Bryan and Curtis Nelson, proving that there is life after Jason Banton who was recalled by Crystal Palace over the weekend.
Despite a second half own goal from Guy Branston, Argyle held on to wrap up maximum points, which places them on 52 points, four clear of the drop zone with two games remaining.
Monday 15 April 2013
SHERIDAN RETURNS TO SPIREITES IN SEARCH OF VICTORY
After a last gasp defeat against Burton Albion on Saturday, Plymouth Argyle return to the Midlands to face manager John Sheridan's former club Chesterfield as they bid to secure their League Two status.
Sheridan's spell at the Proact Stadium, between 2009 and 2012, proved to be a successful one as he led the Spireites to the League Two title in the 2010-11 season.
Although their stay in League One only lasted for a season, the current Argyle boss did lead them to glory in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy during the 2011-12 campaign after they defeated Paolo Di Canio's Swindon Town 1-0 in the final at Wembley.
The former Republic of Ireland international's tenure at the Proact Stadium came to an end at the start of the current season after Chesterfield failed to win any of their opening four games of the campaign before he was later appointed as Carl Fletcher's successor at Home Park in January.
His former assistant Tommy Wright and goalkeeping coach Marc Crossley are still employed at the Proact Stadium under the guidance of his predecessor Paul Cook.
With the Pilgrims currently on 49 points, victory, in what would be their third away win under Sheridan's reign, would virtually guarantee League Two football next season for the Pilgrims.
They will also be looking to prove that there is life after Jason Banton after the League Two Player of the Month for March was recalled by parent club Crystal Palace following the Pilgrims' defeat at Burton on Saturday.
Sheridan's spell at the Proact Stadium, between 2009 and 2012, proved to be a successful one as he led the Spireites to the League Two title in the 2010-11 season.
Although their stay in League One only lasted for a season, the current Argyle boss did lead them to glory in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy during the 2011-12 campaign after they defeated Paolo Di Canio's Swindon Town 1-0 in the final at Wembley.
The former Republic of Ireland international's tenure at the Proact Stadium came to an end at the start of the current season after Chesterfield failed to win any of their opening four games of the campaign before he was later appointed as Carl Fletcher's successor at Home Park in January.
His former assistant Tommy Wright and goalkeeping coach Marc Crossley are still employed at the Proact Stadium under the guidance of his predecessor Paul Cook.
With the Pilgrims currently on 49 points, victory, in what would be their third away win under Sheridan's reign, would virtually guarantee League Two football next season for the Pilgrims.
They will also be looking to prove that there is life after Jason Banton after the League Two Player of the Month for March was recalled by parent club Crystal Palace following the Pilgrims' defeat at Burton on Saturday.
GULLS VERSUS BEES TAKE TWO
After Saturday's wash out, Torquay United will once again be looking to secure a vital three points against relegation rivals Barnet.
Referee Keith Hill deemed a waterlogged Plainmoor pitch unfit to play and following Saturday's results, the emphasis on clinching the necessary three points is now much greater than before.
The Gulls' fellow relegation rivals York City, who were level on points with Torquay but behind on goal difference, upset the form book beating promotion chasing Northampton Town 2-0 at the Sixfields Stadium.
York's win moves them above both Torquay and Barnet, which increases the importance of the three points available to the winner of tomorrow night's encounter.
One advantage of Saturday's postponement for the Gulls is that it allows goalkeeper Michael Poke extra recovery time following a rib injury to return for what will be Torquay's most important game of the season so far.
Referee Keith Hill deemed a waterlogged Plainmoor pitch unfit to play and following Saturday's results, the emphasis on clinching the necessary three points is now much greater than before.
The Gulls' fellow relegation rivals York City, who were level on points with Torquay but behind on goal difference, upset the form book beating promotion chasing Northampton Town 2-0 at the Sixfields Stadium.
York's win moves them above both Torquay and Barnet, which increases the importance of the three points available to the winner of tomorrow night's encounter.
One advantage of Saturday's postponement for the Gulls is that it allows goalkeeper Michael Poke extra recovery time following a rib injury to return for what will be Torquay's most important game of the season so far.
Sunday 14 April 2013
JOHNSON VERSUS JOHNSON
This Tuesday's league encounter between Oldham Athletic and Yeovil Town will see the first father-and-son managerial meeting in English football for over 40 years.
Rookie Latics' boss Lee Johnson will be playing host to the Glovers, currently managed by Johnson senior, Gary, with both sides in search of three points for different reasons.
Following their win over Stevenage on Saturday, Yeovil have moved up to 74 points, a figure which virtually assures them of a Play-Off spot.
Nevertheless, automatic promotion remains a mathematical possibility for the Glovers but as they are currently five points adrift of second placed AFC Bournemouth, they would need to win all of their remaining three games and hope that results elsewhere went in their favour.
Meanwhile, Oldham, under the guidance of Johnson junior, are looking stay above the relegation line and avoid the dreaded drop into League Two.
The Latics are currently in 20th with 44 points, two points clear of 21st placed Scunthorpe United with a game in hand.
During his playing career, Lee was a key player in the Glovers' promotion to the Football League in 2003 and their promotion to League One in 2005 under dad Gary and he was also part of the success that Gary enjoyed when he was Bristol City manager later in his career.
Now in 2013 he will be looking to secure against his father, rather than for him.
It will certainly be a unique experience as the only other way a father would face his son as opposing manager's would be if Manchester United drew Peterborough United in either the Capital One Cup or the FA Cup.
Rookie Latics' boss Lee Johnson will be playing host to the Glovers, currently managed by Johnson senior, Gary, with both sides in search of three points for different reasons.
Following their win over Stevenage on Saturday, Yeovil have moved up to 74 points, a figure which virtually assures them of a Play-Off spot.
Nevertheless, automatic promotion remains a mathematical possibility for the Glovers but as they are currently five points adrift of second placed AFC Bournemouth, they would need to win all of their remaining three games and hope that results elsewhere went in their favour.
Meanwhile, Oldham, under the guidance of Johnson junior, are looking stay above the relegation line and avoid the dreaded drop into League Two.
The Latics are currently in 20th with 44 points, two points clear of 21st placed Scunthorpe United with a game in hand.
During his playing career, Lee was a key player in the Glovers' promotion to the Football League in 2003 and their promotion to League One in 2005 under dad Gary and he was also part of the success that Gary enjoyed when he was Bristol City manager later in his career.
Now in 2013 he will be looking to secure against his father, rather than for him.
It will certainly be a unique experience as the only other way a father would face his son as opposing manager's would be if Manchester United drew Peterborough United in either the Capital One Cup or the FA Cup.
Friday 12 April 2013
ARGYLE DUO SCOOP MONTHLY HONOURS
Plymouth Argyle manager John Sheridan and on loan winger Jason Banton have won the League Two manager and player of the month awards for March.
In winning the managerial prize, Sheridan becomes the first Pilgrims manager to win the award since Paul Sturrock in December 2003.
The former Republic of Ireland midfielder guided Argyle to four wins from a possible six, which came against Barnet, Fleetwood, Southend and Exeter, that has moved the Pilgrims up to 18th place in the League Two table.
Midfielder Banton, currently on loan at Home Park from Crystal Palace, was ever present for Argyle during the month of March.
He found the back of the net three times with the pick of his efforts coming in the Devon Expressway derby victory over Exeter City, the Pilgrims' first win over the Grecians since December 2010.
However, both Sheridan and Banton will have their eyes on a far bigger prize on Saturday when Argyle travel to Burton Albion in search of three points that should virtually secure their League Two status.
In winning the managerial prize, Sheridan becomes the first Pilgrims manager to win the award since Paul Sturrock in December 2003.
The former Republic of Ireland midfielder guided Argyle to four wins from a possible six, which came against Barnet, Fleetwood, Southend and Exeter, that has moved the Pilgrims up to 18th place in the League Two table.
Midfielder Banton, currently on loan at Home Park from Crystal Palace, was ever present for Argyle during the month of March.
He found the back of the net three times with the pick of his efforts coming in the Devon Expressway derby victory over Exeter City, the Pilgrims' first win over the Grecians since December 2010.
However, both Sheridan and Banton will have their eyes on a far bigger prize on Saturday when Argyle travel to Burton Albion in search of three points that should virtually secure their League Two status.
Thursday 11 April 2013
GULLS LOOKING TO STING BEES AGAIN
When Torquay United face Barnet at Plainmoor on Saturday, there will be echoes of when they travelled to North London to take on the Bees in a final day relegation decider over 12 years ago.
On the final day of the 2000-01 campaign, 5th May 2001, the Gulls headed for Underhill to face the Bees in a do-or-die encounter that would see the defeated side slip out of the Football League.
Whilst this weekend's meeting won't necessarily see the loser forfeit their status the membership of League Two, there are some similarities between Torquay United in 2001 and the present day Gulls.
Just as in 2001 when Colin Lee was in Caretaker managerial charge, following the dismissal of Wes Saunders in March 2001, Alan Knill is currently performing the role of interim manager, which he has been since February as Martin Ling continues to recover from a stress-related illness.
As well as this, Torquay also went into the game with a goalkeeper who had spent most of the season playing second fiddle who proved himself to be a penalty save hero in Stuart Jones.
With Michael Poke currently injured, Martin Rice is set to start in goal on Saturday and the former Exeter City youngster has a previous pedigree of saving spot-kicks.
As any fan who witnessed that famous day 12 years ago will know, the Gulls took an early lead through Jason Rees before Kevin Hill headed home a Paul Holmes' corner to give Torquay a two-goal cushion.
Then came a moment that jangled the nerves of those Gulls' followers who had made the trip to North London.
Central defender and player of the year Jimmy Aggrey was adjudged to have handled the ball by referee Richard Beeby who promptly pointed to the point.
Darren Currie stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Jones guessed correctly and saved his spot-kick, his third penalty save of the season, as Torquay breathed a mighty sigh of relief.
From the goal kick that followed the penalty stop, Eifion Williams and David Graham combined to enable Graham to score the Gulls third goal to give them a three goal advantage heading into the half-time break.
However, Barnet hit back in the second half as a Ryan Green own goal and a Wayne Purser effort reduced their deficit to one goal, but Torquay held on to secure a memorable win to preserve their League status at the expense of the Bees.
Three years later, the Gulls clinched promotion to League One and a year later Barnet returned to the Football League by winning the Conference title.
On the final day of the 2000-01 campaign, 5th May 2001, the Gulls headed for Underhill to face the Bees in a do-or-die encounter that would see the defeated side slip out of the Football League.
Whilst this weekend's meeting won't necessarily see the loser forfeit their status the membership of League Two, there are some similarities between Torquay United in 2001 and the present day Gulls.
Just as in 2001 when Colin Lee was in Caretaker managerial charge, following the dismissal of Wes Saunders in March 2001, Alan Knill is currently performing the role of interim manager, which he has been since February as Martin Ling continues to recover from a stress-related illness.
As well as this, Torquay also went into the game with a goalkeeper who had spent most of the season playing second fiddle who proved himself to be a penalty save hero in Stuart Jones.
With Michael Poke currently injured, Martin Rice is set to start in goal on Saturday and the former Exeter City youngster has a previous pedigree of saving spot-kicks.
As any fan who witnessed that famous day 12 years ago will know, the Gulls took an early lead through Jason Rees before Kevin Hill headed home a Paul Holmes' corner to give Torquay a two-goal cushion.
Then came a moment that jangled the nerves of those Gulls' followers who had made the trip to North London.
Central defender and player of the year Jimmy Aggrey was adjudged to have handled the ball by referee Richard Beeby who promptly pointed to the point.
Darren Currie stepped up to take the spot-kick, but Jones guessed correctly and saved his spot-kick, his third penalty save of the season, as Torquay breathed a mighty sigh of relief.
From the goal kick that followed the penalty stop, Eifion Williams and David Graham combined to enable Graham to score the Gulls third goal to give them a three goal advantage heading into the half-time break.
However, Barnet hit back in the second half as a Ryan Green own goal and a Wayne Purser effort reduced their deficit to one goal, but Torquay held on to secure a memorable win to preserve their League status at the expense of the Bees.
Three years later, the Gulls clinched promotion to League One and a year later Barnet returned to the Football League by winning the Conference title.
Wednesday 10 April 2013
CITY LOOKING TO ARREST SLUMP
Exeter City will be looking to get their Play-Off bid back on track when they travel to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday following four straight defeats.
The Grecians' Devon derby loss against Plymouth Argyle was followed by defeat at home to Rochdale on Easter Monday.
Two subsequent defeats, at home to Dagenham & Redbridge and away at fellow Play-Off chasers Rotherham United, have seen Exeter slip out of the top seven.
Their current slump has come at a time when the Grecians have suffered a mini-injury crisis as midfielders Matt Oakley and Liam Sercombe are currently sidelined through injury, defenders Steve Tully and Kevin Amankwaah are also out whilst 21-goal leading scorer Jamie Cureton sat out last Saturday's defeat against Dagenham.
This weekend's trip to the Kingsmeadow Stadium could be an ideal opportunity to get their Play-Off bid back on track as Bradford City, the team who replaced them in the top seven after their 4-1 win over Bristol Rovers, face a potentially tricky trip to Chesterfield who, themselves, also harbour ambitions of reaching the Play-Offs.
The Grecians' Devon derby loss against Plymouth Argyle was followed by defeat at home to Rochdale on Easter Monday.
Two subsequent defeats, at home to Dagenham & Redbridge and away at fellow Play-Off chasers Rotherham United, have seen Exeter slip out of the top seven.
Their current slump has come at a time when the Grecians have suffered a mini-injury crisis as midfielders Matt Oakley and Liam Sercombe are currently sidelined through injury, defenders Steve Tully and Kevin Amankwaah are also out whilst 21-goal leading scorer Jamie Cureton sat out last Saturday's defeat against Dagenham.
This weekend's trip to the Kingsmeadow Stadium could be an ideal opportunity to get their Play-Off bid back on track as Bradford City, the team who replaced them in the top seven after their 4-1 win over Bristol Rovers, face a potentially tricky trip to Chesterfield who, themselves, also harbour ambitions of reaching the Play-Offs.
JOHN & JASON NOMINATED
In recognition for Plymouth Argyle's improved showing in March, manager John Sheridan and winger Jason Banton have been nominated for the respective manager and player of the month awards.
Former Oldham and Chesterfield boss Sheridan, who replaced Carl Fletcher in January, has overseen four wins from a possible six in March.
This run includes home wins over Barnet and Fleetwood Town, an away win against Southend United and victory over Exeter City in Sheridan's first Devon derby at the Home Park helm.
Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Sheridan faces opposition from AFC Wimbledon manager Neal Ardley and Bristol Rovers manager John Ward who, ironically, nearly became Director of Football at Home Park prior to Sheridan's appointment.
One hallmark of Sheridan's reign in charge of the Pilgrims has been the club's impressive home form, which, at the time of writing, reads played eight, won four, drawn three and lost one.
Their only defeat from their six matches during March came at the hands of title chasers Gillingham at the Priestfield Stadium on March 9th.
A key player for the Pilgrims during this run was winger Jason Banton, currently on loan at Argyle from Crystal Palace, who found the back of the net three times against Gillingham, Fleetwood and Exeter.
Despite only being at Home Park for a short time, Banton is currently the Pilgrims' leading scorer with six goals and his performances would surely have not gone unnoticed by his manager at Selhurst Park, former Pilgrims' boss Ian Holloway.
To win the award, Banton faces competition from one-time Argyle full-back Lee Molyneux, now of Accrington Stanley, and Cheltenham Town defender Steve Elliott.
Former Oldham and Chesterfield boss Sheridan, who replaced Carl Fletcher in January, has overseen four wins from a possible six in March.
This run includes home wins over Barnet and Fleetwood Town, an away win against Southend United and victory over Exeter City in Sheridan's first Devon derby at the Home Park helm.
Former Republic of Ireland midfielder Sheridan faces opposition from AFC Wimbledon manager Neal Ardley and Bristol Rovers manager John Ward who, ironically, nearly became Director of Football at Home Park prior to Sheridan's appointment.
One hallmark of Sheridan's reign in charge of the Pilgrims has been the club's impressive home form, which, at the time of writing, reads played eight, won four, drawn three and lost one.
Their only defeat from their six matches during March came at the hands of title chasers Gillingham at the Priestfield Stadium on March 9th.
A key player for the Pilgrims during this run was winger Jason Banton, currently on loan at Argyle from Crystal Palace, who found the back of the net three times against Gillingham, Fleetwood and Exeter.
Despite only being at Home Park for a short time, Banton is currently the Pilgrims' leading scorer with six goals and his performances would surely have not gone unnoticed by his manager at Selhurst Park, former Pilgrims' boss Ian Holloway.
To win the award, Banton faces competition from one-time Argyle full-back Lee Molyneux, now of Accrington Stanley, and Cheltenham Town defender Steve Elliott.
Thursday 4 April 2013
INSPIRATION FOR THE GULLS
If Torquay United need any inspiration ahead of Saturday's trip to League Two leaders Gillingham, then they'd need look no further than the class of 2006, which successfully beat the drop.
At the end of the 2005-06 season, the Gulls travelled to Carlisle United needing to clinch three points that would increase their chances for avoiding the trap door to the Conference.
After beating Macclesfield, Wrexham and Stockport County in consecutive games, Torquay, then under the guidance of Ian Atkins, were in good form.
However, standing in their way was a Carlisle side who were looking for a vital three points that would see them clinch the League Two title and a second successive promotion after winning the Conference Play-Offs the season before.
Nevertheless, despite going into the game as underdogs, it was the Gulls who raced into a two-goal lead as Kevin Hill and Jo Kuffour both found the target.
Torquay maintained their advantage going into the half-time break before the Cumbrians pulled a goal back in the second half through Zigor Aranalde.
A spirited defensive display prevented Carlisle from finding an equaliser as the Gulls moved closer towards safety and the Cumbrians were forced to wait until after their 2-0 victory over Rochdale on the following Tuesday to get the hands on the League Two title.
At Plainmoor a week later, Torquay rubber stamped their League Two status following a goalless draw with Boston United as Oxford United and Rushden & Diamonds both dropped out of the League.
Fast forward seven years and the Gulls find themselves in a similar situation where they need a late run of results to avoid dropping out of the Football League.
Just as then when they headed to Brunton Park in hope rather than expectation, they will head to the Priestfield Stadium this weekend assuming the role of the underdog with nothing to lose.
As history has shown previously, Torquay United are probably at their most dangerous when expectations are low.
At the end of the 2005-06 season, the Gulls travelled to Carlisle United needing to clinch three points that would increase their chances for avoiding the trap door to the Conference.
After beating Macclesfield, Wrexham and Stockport County in consecutive games, Torquay, then under the guidance of Ian Atkins, were in good form.
However, standing in their way was a Carlisle side who were looking for a vital three points that would see them clinch the League Two title and a second successive promotion after winning the Conference Play-Offs the season before.
Nevertheless, despite going into the game as underdogs, it was the Gulls who raced into a two-goal lead as Kevin Hill and Jo Kuffour both found the target.
Torquay maintained their advantage going into the half-time break before the Cumbrians pulled a goal back in the second half through Zigor Aranalde.
A spirited defensive display prevented Carlisle from finding an equaliser as the Gulls moved closer towards safety and the Cumbrians were forced to wait until after their 2-0 victory over Rochdale on the following Tuesday to get the hands on the League Two title.
At Plainmoor a week later, Torquay rubber stamped their League Two status following a goalless draw with Boston United as Oxford United and Rushden & Diamonds both dropped out of the League.
Fast forward seven years and the Gulls find themselves in a similar situation where they need a late run of results to avoid dropping out of the Football League.
Just as then when they headed to Brunton Park in hope rather than expectation, they will head to the Priestfield Stadium this weekend assuming the role of the underdog with nothing to lose.
As history has shown previously, Torquay United are probably at their most dangerous when expectations are low.
MARK AND RYAN BATTLING FOR JPT GLORY
Sunday's Johnstone's Paint Trophy final between Crewe Alexandra and Southend United will see two Devon-born players out to get their hands on the trophy.
Kingsbridge-born Mark Ellis, who joined the Alex from Torquay United last summer for £80,000, will be looking to make it third time lucky after missing out on playing at Wembley twice during his four years at Plainmoor.
Mark, 24, was left out of the final 16 for the Gulls' 2008 FA Trophy final squad and was forced to watch from the sidelines a year later when Torquay clinched their return to the Football League by beating Cambridge United 2-0 in the Conference Play-Off final.
As well as missing out on playing at Wembley twice, Mark was also a non-playing substitute when the Gulls reached the League Two Play-Off final in 2011, which was played at Old Trafford, and was a key member of the Torquay side that missed out in the Play-Offs last season.
For Southend, former Ivybridge Community College student and ex Plymouth Argyle youngster Ryan Leonard will doing his utmost to help the Shrimpers win the competition for the first time since 2004.
Ryan, 20, will also be following in the footsteps of his father Dave Leonard who played for Tiverton Town in the 1998 & 1999 FA Vase finals and later guided Truro City to Vase glory in 2007 as a manager.
After progressing through the youth ranks at Home Park, Ryan made one solitary appearance for the Pilgrims during the 2009-10 season as a substitute against Blackpool before he was released by Peter Reid at the end of the 2010-11 campaign.
Following his release by Argyle, he was soon snapped up by former Pilgrims boss, and now ex Southend manager, Paul Sturrock.
He played a key role in helping the Shrimpers reach Wembley as he scored the decisive goal in their Southern Area final first leg victory over Leyton Orient.
Should he get onto the hallowed Wembley turf, he will be the second former Argyle youngster to appear at Wembley in the space of a year, following in the footsteps of former teammate Joe Mason who scored Cardiff City's opening goal in their League Cup final appearance against Liverpool.
Kingsbridge-born Mark Ellis, who joined the Alex from Torquay United last summer for £80,000, will be looking to make it third time lucky after missing out on playing at Wembley twice during his four years at Plainmoor.
Mark, 24, was left out of the final 16 for the Gulls' 2008 FA Trophy final squad and was forced to watch from the sidelines a year later when Torquay clinched their return to the Football League by beating Cambridge United 2-0 in the Conference Play-Off final.
As well as missing out on playing at Wembley twice, Mark was also a non-playing substitute when the Gulls reached the League Two Play-Off final in 2011, which was played at Old Trafford, and was a key member of the Torquay side that missed out in the Play-Offs last season.
For Southend, former Ivybridge Community College student and ex Plymouth Argyle youngster Ryan Leonard will doing his utmost to help the Shrimpers win the competition for the first time since 2004.
Ryan, 20, will also be following in the footsteps of his father Dave Leonard who played for Tiverton Town in the 1998 & 1999 FA Vase finals and later guided Truro City to Vase glory in 2007 as a manager.
After progressing through the youth ranks at Home Park, Ryan made one solitary appearance for the Pilgrims during the 2009-10 season as a substitute against Blackpool before he was released by Peter Reid at the end of the 2010-11 campaign.
Following his release by Argyle, he was soon snapped up by former Pilgrims boss, and now ex Southend manager, Paul Sturrock.
He played a key role in helping the Shrimpers reach Wembley as he scored the decisive goal in their Southern Area final first leg victory over Leyton Orient.
Should he get onto the hallowed Wembley turf, he will be the second former Argyle youngster to appear at Wembley in the space of a year, following in the footsteps of former teammate Joe Mason who scored Cardiff City's opening goal in their League Cup final appearance against Liverpool.
Wednesday 3 April 2013
TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT
To say things are tight at the bottom of League Two is a massive understatement.
Following Easter Monday's results, only four points separate 17th placed Dagenham & Redbridge, and 24th Aldershot who have 44 points.
Amongst the teams sandwiched between the Daggers and the Shots are Torquay United and Plymouth Argyle with 46 points each.
With four games left for the Gulls and five for the Pilgrims, both sides realistically need to secure five points to be in with a shout of guaranteeing League Two football for the 2013-14 campaign.
Torquay's four remaining games see them face Champions-elect Gillingham this Saturday at the Priestfield Stadium before facing fellow strugglers Barnet at home.
They then travel to Morecambe before hosting Bristol Rovers on the final day of the season.
However, the Gulls will head into these matches without the services of Joss Labadie, who has scored four goals in seven appearances during his loan spell at Plainmoor, after he was recalled by his parent club Notts County.
Meanwhile, the Pilgrims have two home games left; against Play-Off chasers Cheltenham Town and Rotherham United and a re-arranged trip to Chesterfield as well as journeys to Burton Albion and Rochdale.
On their travels, Argyle will be re-acquainting themselves with some familiar faces.
Chesterfield were manager John Sheridan's last club before his arrival at Home Park and his former assistant Tommy Wright and goalkeeping coach Marc Crossley are still employed at the Proact Stadium.
Their trip to Burton will see them face former loanee Alex MacDonald, who is currently on loan at the Pirelli Stadium from Burnley, a player who was with the Pilgrims in the early part of the current campaign as well as towards the end of last season.
On the final day against Rochdale, Argyle will be coming up against Dale manager Keith Hill who spent four years at Home Park between 1992 and 1996 after arriving from Blackburn Rovers with Craig Skinner in a deal that saw Nicky Marker move in the opposite direction to Ewood Park.
Following Easter Monday's results, only four points separate 17th placed Dagenham & Redbridge, and 24th Aldershot who have 44 points.
Amongst the teams sandwiched between the Daggers and the Shots are Torquay United and Plymouth Argyle with 46 points each.
With four games left for the Gulls and five for the Pilgrims, both sides realistically need to secure five points to be in with a shout of guaranteeing League Two football for the 2013-14 campaign.
Torquay's four remaining games see them face Champions-elect Gillingham this Saturday at the Priestfield Stadium before facing fellow strugglers Barnet at home.
They then travel to Morecambe before hosting Bristol Rovers on the final day of the season.
However, the Gulls will head into these matches without the services of Joss Labadie, who has scored four goals in seven appearances during his loan spell at Plainmoor, after he was recalled by his parent club Notts County.
Meanwhile, the Pilgrims have two home games left; against Play-Off chasers Cheltenham Town and Rotherham United and a re-arranged trip to Chesterfield as well as journeys to Burton Albion and Rochdale.
On their travels, Argyle will be re-acquainting themselves with some familiar faces.
Chesterfield were manager John Sheridan's last club before his arrival at Home Park and his former assistant Tommy Wright and goalkeeping coach Marc Crossley are still employed at the Proact Stadium.
Their trip to Burton will see them face former loanee Alex MacDonald, who is currently on loan at the Pirelli Stadium from Burnley, a player who was with the Pilgrims in the early part of the current campaign as well as towards the end of last season.
On the final day against Rochdale, Argyle will be coming up against Dale manager Keith Hill who spent four years at Home Park between 1992 and 1996 after arriving from Blackburn Rovers with Craig Skinner in a deal that saw Nicky Marker move in the opposite direction to Ewood Park.
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