For the second year in a row, Torquay United secured a Boxing Day victory over Forest Green Rovers and scored four goals in the process.
The first half proved to be a tale of two Moores - Brendan in goal and former Gulls loanee Kieffer up front for Forest Green, as Brendan made two important saves to deny his namesake to help keep the score level at 0-0 at half-time.
Nathan Blissett poked home a cross from Dan Sparkes on 55 minutes and then turned provider to tee up David Fitzpatrick for double the Gulls lead. Sparkes then provided the assist for Sean McGinty's third.
Then back came Forest Green as substitute Christian Doidge pulled one back before Charlie Clough turned home to reduce the arrears to a single goal in the space of two minutes in the 73rd and 74th minutes.
Four minutes the visitors were level when Ethan Pinnock turned the ball over the line for Forest Green's third.
However, the Gulls showed great resolve to score a fourth in the 81st minute after McGinty headed a corner back across goal which ultimately proved to be enough for Kevin Nicholson's side, whose new owners Gaming International were in attendance.
Monday 26 December 2016
Thursday 22 December 2016
ARGYLE BEAT NEWPORT TO SET UP LIVERPOOL DATE
Last season, it was Paul Tisdale's turn to face Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool with Exeter City, this campaign will give Derek Adams to do so as Plymouth Argyle manager after the Pilgrims defeated Newport County.
A Graham Carey penalty deep into extra time - after David Goodwillie had been fouled - proved to be enough for Argyle, as they came out on top in the tie which saw the League Two leaders defeat the division's bottom-placed club.
It was Carey's tenth goal of the campaign and it ensure that the Pilgrims will feature in the FA Cup third round for only the second time since 2010. His effort sets up what will be the 11th meeting between Argyle and the Reds, the last of which occurred in the 1961-62 season.
A Graham Carey penalty deep into extra time - after David Goodwillie had been fouled - proved to be enough for Argyle, as they came out on top in the tie which saw the League Two leaders defeat the division's bottom-placed club.
It was Carey's tenth goal of the campaign and it ensure that the Pilgrims will feature in the FA Cup third round for only the second time since 2010. His effort sets up what will be the 11th meeting between Argyle and the Reds, the last of which occurred in the 1961-62 season.
Wednesday 21 December 2016
NEW OWNERS MUST ENSURE GULLS ARE PITCH PERFECT
In many walks of life, five year plans are used as a barometer for future progress.
Most famously, they were first used by Jozef Stalin as a list of economic goals based on his policy of Socialism in One Country in the Soviet Union in 1929.
Fast forward to the present day and the term 'five-year plan' has been used in connection with the recent takeover of Torquay United by Riviera Stadium Ltd - a subsidiary of Gaming International who were in talks to buy the club in the summer before the deal collapsed.
Following the completion of the takeover, GI Chief Executive Clarke Osborne issued a statement in which he talked of a five-year plan which was issued on the club website stating: "Our initial work is to ensure that the Club is stable whilst compiling a 5-year plan to secure the Clubs future and bring high level football entertainment to Torbay."
There has been speculation that a number of former directors of the club could be approached to oversee the day-to-day running of United and a role for the Torquay United Supporters' Trust has also been mentioned.
Osborne has also spoken of immediate investment in the first team, rebuilding the club's youth scheme and a possible stadium move in the future with Nightingale Park in Barton a likely favoured destination.
Whilst a new stadium could help generate revenue streams for the club, a return to the Football League for the Gulls, and helping them to stay, there has to be central to any ambitions for relocation.
In 2005, Burton Albion - then still a Conference side - left Eton Park, their home since 1958, to move to the Pirelli Stadium. Four years later, the Brewers were celebrating promotion to the Football League for the first time ever and have since progressed as far as the Championship.
If Gaming International's plan eventually is to move Torquay United away from Plainmoor, then they will need to get things right at the Gulls' present home first on the pitch.
Much speculation has been made of GI's possible plans for Plainmoor should a stadium move occur and many still remain sceptical. Nevertheless, the ultimate success of their venture - and this is what makes the industry of football so unique - is that the overall performance of the business is ultimately defined by the fortunes of the team on the pitch.
Most famously, they were first used by Jozef Stalin as a list of economic goals based on his policy of Socialism in One Country in the Soviet Union in 1929.
Fast forward to the present day and the term 'five-year plan' has been used in connection with the recent takeover of Torquay United by Riviera Stadium Ltd - a subsidiary of Gaming International who were in talks to buy the club in the summer before the deal collapsed.
Following the completion of the takeover, GI Chief Executive Clarke Osborne issued a statement in which he talked of a five-year plan which was issued on the club website stating: "Our initial work is to ensure that the Club is stable whilst compiling a 5-year plan to secure the Clubs future and bring high level football entertainment to Torbay."
There has been speculation that a number of former directors of the club could be approached to oversee the day-to-day running of United and a role for the Torquay United Supporters' Trust has also been mentioned.
Osborne has also spoken of immediate investment in the first team, rebuilding the club's youth scheme and a possible stadium move in the future with Nightingale Park in Barton a likely favoured destination.
Whilst a new stadium could help generate revenue streams for the club, a return to the Football League for the Gulls, and helping them to stay, there has to be central to any ambitions for relocation.
In 2005, Burton Albion - then still a Conference side - left Eton Park, their home since 1958, to move to the Pirelli Stadium. Four years later, the Brewers were celebrating promotion to the Football League for the first time ever and have since progressed as far as the Championship.
If Gaming International's plan eventually is to move Torquay United away from Plainmoor, then they will need to get things right at the Gulls' present home first on the pitch.
Much speculation has been made of GI's possible plans for Plainmoor should a stadium move occur and many still remain sceptical. Nevertheless, the ultimate success of their venture - and this is what makes the industry of football so unique - is that the overall performance of the business is ultimately defined by the fortunes of the team on the pitch.
Thursday 15 December 2016
MONK FOLLOWING IN ILLUSTRIOUS FOOTSTEPS
"Listen son, if you're looking for autographs why don't you go and ask that ginger haired lad over there because he's going to be a really good player one day"
They were the words of Torquay United Chief Scout John James, the man responsible for discovering amongst others Lee Sharpe, Darren Moore and Dan Gosling, and someone who recognised talent when he saw it given to your correspondent's younger self.
The player he was referring to was a young defender who had just broken into the Gulls' side as a first year apprentice by the name of Garry Monk and was being tipped for bigger things.
It wouldn't be long before those 'bigger things' would materialise for Monk. At the end of the 1995-96 season, which saw United retain their status as a football league side due to Stevenage's ground not being up to league standard, Monk was snapped up for Southampton by Graeme Souness.
However, he would only make 11 appearances for the Saints in the top-flight, which included their final two fixtures at the Dell against Manchester United and Arsenal, before joining Swansea City in 2004.
His move to the Swans would coincide with a rise up through the leagues that later saw Swansea reach the top-flight in the 2010-11 season under Brendan Rodgers - after promotions in the 2004-05 and 2007-08 campaigns from League Two and League One.
Another 27 Premier League followed with the Swans before he was appointed as manager, following the departure of Michael Laudrup, on February 4th, 2014. His first game in charge was a 3-0 win South Wales derby win over Cardiff City and Monk managed to guide Swansea away from the relegation zone.
The 2014-15 season saw the Swans build on the strong start made by Monk as they finished 8th in the Premier League - their highest league finish since they finished sixth in the 'old' First Division under John Toshack in the 1981-1982 campaign.
Sadly his 12-year association came to an end of December 9th, 2015 after Swansea went on a run of one win in eleven matches.
Nevertheless, Monk wasn't out of work for long as in the following summer he was appointed as manager of Leeds United - following in the illustrious footsteps of Don Revie, Brian Clough, Jimmy Armfield, Jock Stein, Howard Wilkinson, George Graham and Terry Venables to name but a selection.
On his arrival, Monk become the West Yorkshire club's fifth manager in the space of two years but he brought some much needed stability to Elland Road.
At the time of writing, Leeds are sixth in the Championship and on course to reach the Championship Play-offs for a shot at a return to the top-flight. With Swansea currently in the Premier League relegation zone, there is a strong possibility that both sides could swap places come the end of the season.
Should Leeds win promotion, either this season or next, Monk's first professional club Torquay United stand to gain a windfall to the tune of £200,000 courtesy of the transfer that took another former Gull Eunan O'Kane to Elland Road last August, as revealed by Torquay chairman David Phillips at the Gulls' fan's forum on November 3rd.
They were the words of Torquay United Chief Scout John James, the man responsible for discovering amongst others Lee Sharpe, Darren Moore and Dan Gosling, and someone who recognised talent when he saw it given to your correspondent's younger self.
The player he was referring to was a young defender who had just broken into the Gulls' side as a first year apprentice by the name of Garry Monk and was being tipped for bigger things.
It wouldn't be long before those 'bigger things' would materialise for Monk. At the end of the 1995-96 season, which saw United retain their status as a football league side due to Stevenage's ground not being up to league standard, Monk was snapped up for Southampton by Graeme Souness.
However, he would only make 11 appearances for the Saints in the top-flight, which included their final two fixtures at the Dell against Manchester United and Arsenal, before joining Swansea City in 2004.
His move to the Swans would coincide with a rise up through the leagues that later saw Swansea reach the top-flight in the 2010-11 season under Brendan Rodgers - after promotions in the 2004-05 and 2007-08 campaigns from League Two and League One.
Another 27 Premier League followed with the Swans before he was appointed as manager, following the departure of Michael Laudrup, on February 4th, 2014. His first game in charge was a 3-0 win South Wales derby win over Cardiff City and Monk managed to guide Swansea away from the relegation zone.
The 2014-15 season saw the Swans build on the strong start made by Monk as they finished 8th in the Premier League - their highest league finish since they finished sixth in the 'old' First Division under John Toshack in the 1981-1982 campaign.
Sadly his 12-year association came to an end of December 9th, 2015 after Swansea went on a run of one win in eleven matches.
Nevertheless, Monk wasn't out of work for long as in the following summer he was appointed as manager of Leeds United - following in the illustrious footsteps of Don Revie, Brian Clough, Jimmy Armfield, Jock Stein, Howard Wilkinson, George Graham and Terry Venables to name but a selection.
On his arrival, Monk become the West Yorkshire club's fifth manager in the space of two years but he brought some much needed stability to Elland Road.
At the time of writing, Leeds are sixth in the Championship and on course to reach the Championship Play-offs for a shot at a return to the top-flight. With Swansea currently in the Premier League relegation zone, there is a strong possibility that both sides could swap places come the end of the season.
Should Leeds win promotion, either this season or next, Monk's first professional club Torquay United stand to gain a windfall to the tune of £200,000 courtesy of the transfer that took another former Gull Eunan O'Kane to Elland Road last August, as revealed by Torquay chairman David Phillips at the Gulls' fan's forum on November 3rd.
Sunday 11 December 2016
NO OLD PALS ACT FOR ADAMS AS ARGYLE RETURN TO SUMMIT
Childhood friendships were put to one side as Derek Adams’
Plymouth Argyle came out on top against Darren Ferguson’s Doncaster Rovers.
An abridged version of this article appeared in the Football League Paper on 11/12/16
The fact that the duo have ended up facing each other in
opposite manager’s dug outs is probably no surprise when you consider that
Adams’ father George Adams was the first signing of Sir Alex Ferguson –
Darren’s famous dad – for East Stirlingshire in 1974 before serving Ferguson senior
as a coach at Aberdeen.
Graham Carey’s stunning opener and Jake Jervis’ second half
penalty proved to be enough to see the Pilgrims replace Rovers at the summit of
League Two.
However, the drama didn’t end there as Liam Mandeville
missed a late penalty for the visitors and Doncaster skipper James Coppinger
was dismissed.
On this evidence there is every chance that both sides could
end in the season in the top three, especially if Argyle can keep hold of
Carey. An abridged version of this article appeared in the Football League Paper on 11/12/16
Thursday 8 December 2016
FATHERS, SONS AND FOOTBALL
For the first time on Saturday, the second generation of two managerial and coaching dynasties will go head to head as Derek Adams' Plymouth Argyle play host to Darren Ferguson's Doncaster Rovers.
Their parent's paths also crossed professionally as Adams' father - George - became the first signing in their illustrious career of Sir Alex Ferguson - Darren's famous father - for East Stirlingshire in 1974.
Four years later Adams senior - whose playing career by this time had been ended prematurely through injury - was appointed as a youth coach at Aberdeen by Ferguson senior, who was embarking on a managerial appointment that would later lead to him being appointed as Manchester United manager in 1986.
Whilst they worked together at Pittodrie, the Dons would break the stranglehold of the 'Old Firm' of Celtic and Rangers on Scottish football and also lift the European Cup Winner's Cup in 1983 - which is the last time a team from Scotland has won a major European trophy.
Whilst Ferguson the elder was busy collecting silverware with the Red Devils, Adams the elder managed Keith and Peterhead in the Highland League before going on to work in the youth development departments of Celtic, Motherwell and Rangers. In 2005, he was appointed as Director of Football at Ross County and hired Adams junior as manager two years later.
Over the course of two spells in charge of the Staggies, Adams the younger would guide them to their first domestic final in 2010, where they faced Dundee United in the Scottish Cup final after beating Celtic in the semis, and guided County to their first promotion to the top-flight of Scottish football in 2012. He succeeded John Sheridan as Argyle manager in the summer of 2015.
Ferguson junior - who started his playing career at Old Trafford in 1990 before later appearing for Wolves, Den Haag in Holland and Wrexham - also started his managerial career in 2007 with Peterborough United. During two spells with the Posh, between 2007 and 2009 and 2011 and 2015, he won three promotions - two from League One and one from League Two - and the Football League Trophy in 2014.
In addition to this, he also managed Preston North End briefly in 2010 and became Doncaster manager in 2015.
Their parent's paths also crossed professionally as Adams' father - George - became the first signing in their illustrious career of Sir Alex Ferguson - Darren's famous father - for East Stirlingshire in 1974.
Four years later Adams senior - whose playing career by this time had been ended prematurely through injury - was appointed as a youth coach at Aberdeen by Ferguson senior, who was embarking on a managerial appointment that would later lead to him being appointed as Manchester United manager in 1986.
Whilst they worked together at Pittodrie, the Dons would break the stranglehold of the 'Old Firm' of Celtic and Rangers on Scottish football and also lift the European Cup Winner's Cup in 1983 - which is the last time a team from Scotland has won a major European trophy.
Whilst Ferguson the elder was busy collecting silverware with the Red Devils, Adams the elder managed Keith and Peterhead in the Highland League before going on to work in the youth development departments of Celtic, Motherwell and Rangers. In 2005, he was appointed as Director of Football at Ross County and hired Adams junior as manager two years later.
Over the course of two spells in charge of the Staggies, Adams the younger would guide them to their first domestic final in 2010, where they faced Dundee United in the Scottish Cup final after beating Celtic in the semis, and guided County to their first promotion to the top-flight of Scottish football in 2012. He succeeded John Sheridan as Argyle manager in the summer of 2015.
Ferguson junior - who started his playing career at Old Trafford in 1990 before later appearing for Wolves, Den Haag in Holland and Wrexham - also started his managerial career in 2007 with Peterborough United. During two spells with the Posh, between 2007 and 2009 and 2011 and 2015, he won three promotions - two from League One and one from League Two - and the Football League Trophy in 2014.
In addition to this, he also managed Preston North End briefly in 2010 and became Doncaster manager in 2015.
Monday 5 December 2016
DARREN'S GLOVERS ON THE WAY UP
After experiencing two relegations in the space of three seasons, Yeovil Town are now looking up instead of down following their demolition of Crawley Town which moves them into the League Two Play-off zone.
The Glovers were off the mark against the Red Devils on 16 minutes when Tom Eaves turned home a shot from Otis Khan.
In the 28th minute, Eaves turned provider when he knocked ball out of defence from Nathan Smith into the path of Ryan Hedges, who slotted home to double Yeovil's advantage.
Three minutes before the interval, Khan found the target when he finished low into the bottom left corner after connecting with a cut back from Kevin Dawson.
Six minutes after the break, the Glovers extended their lead to four when the reflexes of Crawley keeper Glen Morris denied Hedges but Khan reacted quickest to turn home the rebound.
Yeovil fifth came on 73 minutes when substitute Francois Zoko slotted home following good work from Khan to seal a win that moves the Glovers up to sixth in the table.
Sitting three places above Darren Way's men are Luton Town who are, of course, managed by Way's former teammate Nathan Jones.
If both Yeovil and the Hatters were to finish the campaign in the current respective positions they would be due to meet each other in the Play-off semi-finals.
The Glovers were off the mark against the Red Devils on 16 minutes when Tom Eaves turned home a shot from Otis Khan.
In the 28th minute, Eaves turned provider when he knocked ball out of defence from Nathan Smith into the path of Ryan Hedges, who slotted home to double Yeovil's advantage.
Three minutes before the interval, Khan found the target when he finished low into the bottom left corner after connecting with a cut back from Kevin Dawson.
Six minutes after the break, the Glovers extended their lead to four when the reflexes of Crawley keeper Glen Morris denied Hedges but Khan reacted quickest to turn home the rebound.
Yeovil fifth came on 73 minutes when substitute Francois Zoko slotted home following good work from Khan to seal a win that moves the Glovers up to sixth in the table.
Sitting three places above Darren Way's men are Luton Town who are, of course, managed by Way's former teammate Nathan Jones.
If both Yeovil and the Hatters were to finish the campaign in the current respective positions they would be due to meet each other in the Play-off semi-finals.
Sunday 4 December 2016
WESTLEY CAST AS VILLAIN IN PRESS ROOM PANTOMIME
Pantomime season came early to Home Park after Plymouth Argyle's FA Cup second round tie with Newport County, with Exiles manager Graham Westley cast as the villain of the piece.
Both sides played out a goalless draw, which will require a replay, but the most of intriguing aspect of the day came when Argyle boss Derek Adams and Westley came to do their post match interviews.
Whilst Adams was sharing his thoughts on the game with the assembled press, Westley eavesdropped on what Adams was saying prompting the Pilgrims manager to leave the room along with Westley.
Prior to his departure, Westley was asked politely to vacate the media area by Argyle Head of Communications on two occasions but refused to do so.
Westley later returned and when asked about the incident with Adams by the Plymouth Herald's Argyle reporter Chris Errington. He then described his own version of the events before branding Errington as 'a clown' before answering questions from BBC Radio Wales.
Saturday's tie was the third time that the Pilgrims have faced Newport this season and they will face each other for a fourth time when they meet at Rodney Parade for the replay.
The press room incident, as well as the potential 'carrot' of drawing a Premier League side in the third round when the draw is made on Monday evening, will surely add extra spice to the meeting.
Both sides played out a goalless draw, which will require a replay, but the most of intriguing aspect of the day came when Argyle boss Derek Adams and Westley came to do their post match interviews.
Whilst Adams was sharing his thoughts on the game with the assembled press, Westley eavesdropped on what Adams was saying prompting the Pilgrims manager to leave the room along with Westley.
Prior to his departure, Westley was asked politely to vacate the media area by Argyle Head of Communications on two occasions but refused to do so.
Westley later returned and when asked about the incident with Adams by the Plymouth Herald's Argyle reporter Chris Errington. He then described his own version of the events before branding Errington as 'a clown' before answering questions from BBC Radio Wales.
Saturday's tie was the third time that the Pilgrims have faced Newport this season and they will face each other for a fourth time when they meet at Rodney Parade for the replay.
The press room incident, as well as the potential 'carrot' of drawing a Premier League side in the third round when the draw is made on Monday evening, will surely add extra spice to the meeting.
Friday 2 December 2016
ADAMS HAS CHANCE TO WRITE OWN CUP HISTORY WITH PILGRIMS
As manager of Ross County, Derek Adams famously led the Staggies to a Scottish Cup Semi-final victory over Celtic in 2010 and now stands on the verge of facing one of English football's big guns in the FA Cup third round.
All that stands between the Pilgrims and the possibility of facing the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool or Arsenal et al is a home tie with fellow League Two side Newport County.
In his second season in charge since he was appointed as John Sheridan's successor in the summer of 2015, Adams is yet to lead Argyle beyond the second round of the competition having lost in the first round to Carlisle United in the 2015-16 campaign.
The Pilgrims, of course, have their own history in the competition, having memorably reached the Semi-final stage in the 1983-84 season when they defeated the Exiles in the third round before going on to bow out to Watford in the last four.
On Saturday January 7th, 1984 Argyle drew 2-2 with Newport at Home Park with goals from Kevin Hodges and Tommy Tynan, the latter had joined Argyle from the Welsh outfit at the start of the season.
In the replay at Newport's Old Somerton Park three days later, the Pilgrims triumphed 1-0 courtesy of an Andy Rogers effort before being paired with Darlington at home in the next round, a game which they won 2-1 with goals from John Uzzell and Gordon Staniforth.
The present day Argyle will be seeing their cup tie with Newport, who they have already faced twice this season - in the league and the Checkatrade Trophy - having won on both occasions, as a opportunity to return to winning ways following three straight league defeats.
Should the Pilgrims defeat the Exiles and progress through to round three they will be ball number 63 in Monday's draw.
All that stands between the Pilgrims and the possibility of facing the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool or Arsenal et al is a home tie with fellow League Two side Newport County.
In his second season in charge since he was appointed as John Sheridan's successor in the summer of 2015, Adams is yet to lead Argyle beyond the second round of the competition having lost in the first round to Carlisle United in the 2015-16 campaign.
The Pilgrims, of course, have their own history in the competition, having memorably reached the Semi-final stage in the 1983-84 season when they defeated the Exiles in the third round before going on to bow out to Watford in the last four.
On Saturday January 7th, 1984 Argyle drew 2-2 with Newport at Home Park with goals from Kevin Hodges and Tommy Tynan, the latter had joined Argyle from the Welsh outfit at the start of the season.
In the replay at Newport's Old Somerton Park three days later, the Pilgrims triumphed 1-0 courtesy of an Andy Rogers effort before being paired with Darlington at home in the next round, a game which they won 2-1 with goals from John Uzzell and Gordon Staniforth.
The present day Argyle will be seeing their cup tie with Newport, who they have already faced twice this season - in the league and the Checkatrade Trophy - having won on both occasions, as a opportunity to return to winning ways following three straight league defeats.
Should the Pilgrims defeat the Exiles and progress through to round three they will be ball number 63 in Monday's draw.
Sunday 27 November 2016
A VASE REUNION
Here's a quiz question for you, which three players who featured in the FA Trophy final in 2008 are set to be appearing in FA Vase action next Saturday?
As you've probably guessed it all three of those players appeared for Torquay United against Ebbsfleet United.
And those three players are Kevin Hill and Lee Phillips, who are set to star for South West Peninsula League side Exmouth Town in their Buildbase FA Vase tie against Blackfield and Langley of the Wessex League who can count former Gulls striker Tim Sills amongst their numbers.
During the 2007-08 season, Sills and Phillips led the line for Torquay in their first season as a Conference club and Sills finished the campaign as the Gulls' top scorer with 23 goals - whilst Phillips found the back of the net 12 times before joining Rushden & Diamonds in the following summer.
A year later, Sills would score the second of United's two goals in their 2-0 Conference Play-off final victory over a Cambridge United side that included Phillips, and in 2014 he was part of the Gosport Borough side that lost to the U's in the FA Trophy final.
For Hill the 2007-08 campaign proved to be the final campaign of his 11 years at Plainmoor, which started in 1997 when he made the move to United from Western League side Torrington.
The FA Trophy final marked his 474th appearance for the Gulls, which saw him eclipse the long standing club appearance record previously held by Dennis Lewis before he joined Dorchester Town.
For all three players, the Vase represents one final shot at glory and it is not beyond the realms of possibility that one, or even two, of these players could be lining up under the Wembley Arch at the end of the season.
As you've probably guessed it all three of those players appeared for Torquay United against Ebbsfleet United.
And those three players are Kevin Hill and Lee Phillips, who are set to star for South West Peninsula League side Exmouth Town in their Buildbase FA Vase tie against Blackfield and Langley of the Wessex League who can count former Gulls striker Tim Sills amongst their numbers.
During the 2007-08 season, Sills and Phillips led the line for Torquay in their first season as a Conference club and Sills finished the campaign as the Gulls' top scorer with 23 goals - whilst Phillips found the back of the net 12 times before joining Rushden & Diamonds in the following summer.
A year later, Sills would score the second of United's two goals in their 2-0 Conference Play-off final victory over a Cambridge United side that included Phillips, and in 2014 he was part of the Gosport Borough side that lost to the U's in the FA Trophy final.
For Hill the 2007-08 campaign proved to be the final campaign of his 11 years at Plainmoor, which started in 1997 when he made the move to United from Western League side Torrington.
The FA Trophy final marked his 474th appearance for the Gulls, which saw him eclipse the long standing club appearance record previously held by Dennis Lewis before he joined Dorchester Town.
For all three players, the Vase represents one final shot at glory and it is not beyond the realms of possibility that one, or even two, of these players could be lining up under the Wembley Arch at the end of the season.
Wednesday 23 November 2016
MOORE TREBLE GIVES TORQUAY WELCOME BOOST
A first career hat-trick for Kieffer Moore saw him become Torquay United's top scorer for the 2016-17 season and help the Gulls to record their first league win since early October 2016 against Solihull Moors.
Moore, who joined United on loan from Forest Green Rovers and scored on his debut for his hometown club against Wrexham last Saturday, opened the scoring on 30 minutes when latched onto a ball from fellow loan signing Jamie Reid and comfortably slotted home.
In the second half, Moore completed his brace the hour mark when he nodded home a cross from Dan Sparkes into an unguarded net from eight-yards, which moved him level on three goals with Reid, Nathan Blissett and Giancarlo Gallifuoco for the campaign.
Sparkes was once again the provider for Moore in the 71st minute when his precision cross from the left wing, as Moore dived at full stretch to power home from six-yards to become the first Gulls' player to score a treble since Elliot Benyon in the FA Cup second round against Stockport County in the 2009-10 season.
The challenge now for Torquay manager Kevin Nicholson is to build on this result in United's next two fixtures away at Tranmere Rovers and Dagenham & Redbridge, not to mention to try to keep the Torquay-born Moore at Plainmoor beyond his initial 28-day loan stint.
Moore, who joined United on loan from Forest Green Rovers and scored on his debut for his hometown club against Wrexham last Saturday, opened the scoring on 30 minutes when latched onto a ball from fellow loan signing Jamie Reid and comfortably slotted home.
In the second half, Moore completed his brace the hour mark when he nodded home a cross from Dan Sparkes into an unguarded net from eight-yards, which moved him level on three goals with Reid, Nathan Blissett and Giancarlo Gallifuoco for the campaign.
Sparkes was once again the provider for Moore in the 71st minute when his precision cross from the left wing, as Moore dived at full stretch to power home from six-yards to become the first Gulls' player to score a treble since Elliot Benyon in the FA Cup second round against Stockport County in the 2009-10 season.
The challenge now for Torquay manager Kevin Nicholson is to build on this result in United's next two fixtures away at Tranmere Rovers and Dagenham & Redbridge, not to mention to try to keep the Torquay-born Moore at Plainmoor beyond his initial 28-day loan stint.
Sunday 20 November 2016
MOORE SECURES POINT FOR GULLS ON DEBUT
It has been quite a week for Kieffer Moore up until now.
Last Tuesday, he made his international debut for England C' from the substitutes bench, as a 90th minute replacement for Lincoln City midfielder, in a match that saw the non-league Three Lions defeat Estonia Under-23s 2-1 in the International Challenge Trophy.
The team also stayed in a Talinn hotel that was once frequented by the now former US Presidential candidate Hilary Clinton, but later on that achievement would soon be trumped.
On his return to the UK Moore joined his hometown club Torquay United on loan from his present club Forest Green Rovers, and netted for the Gulls on his debut against Wrexham to secure a point for Kevin Nicholson's side as he turned home a Luke Young corner with two minutes to go.
Not only did he play a vital part in helping to seal a 1-1 draw for United - he was voted as man of the match for his efforts.
Like fellow loanee Jamie Reid, Moore supported the Gulls as a boy and was part of the club's centre of excellence before it was first closed by former Chairman Mike Bateson in 2004.
Since then, his route back to Plainmoor has taken in spells with Paignton Saints in the South Devon League, Truro City, Dorchester Town, Yeovil Town and Viking in Norway.
It maybe early days yet, but hopefully his playing stint on the English Riviera will last longer than the 28 days of his current loan deal.
Last Tuesday, he made his international debut for England C' from the substitutes bench, as a 90th minute replacement for Lincoln City midfielder, in a match that saw the non-league Three Lions defeat Estonia Under-23s 2-1 in the International Challenge Trophy.
The team also stayed in a Talinn hotel that was once frequented by the now former US Presidential candidate Hilary Clinton, but later on that achievement would soon be trumped.
On his return to the UK Moore joined his hometown club Torquay United on loan from his present club Forest Green Rovers, and netted for the Gulls on his debut against Wrexham to secure a point for Kevin Nicholson's side as he turned home a Luke Young corner with two minutes to go.
Not only did he play a vital part in helping to seal a 1-1 draw for United - he was voted as man of the match for his efforts.
Like fellow loanee Jamie Reid, Moore supported the Gulls as a boy and was part of the club's centre of excellence before it was first closed by former Chairman Mike Bateson in 2004.
Since then, his route back to Plainmoor has taken in spells with Paignton Saints in the South Devon League, Truro City, Dorchester Town, Yeovil Town and Viking in Norway.
It maybe early days yet, but hopefully his playing stint on the English Riviera will last longer than the 28 days of his current loan deal.
Thursday 17 November 2016
WELCOME HOME KIEFFER
Former Yeovil Town striker Kieffer Moore has made a return to his native South Devon to join Torquay United on loan from his current club Forest Green Rovers.
Moore, 24, was part of the Gulls' Centre of Excellence programme prior to its closure under former Chairman Mike Bateson in 2004 and it was with South Devon League side Paignton Saints where he reignited his career before moving on to Truro City in 2012.
Financial problems with the White Tigers meant that he was soon on the move to Truro's then fellow Conference South Dorchester Town. His performances for the Magpies brought him to the attention's of Charlton Athletic who offered him a trial in May 2013.
Although the Addicks didn't offer Moore a permanent deal, he would later be plying his trade in the Championship as Yeovil Town - then recently promoted to the second tier of English football for the first time in their history - offered him a two-year deal following a successful trial.
Despite the fact that the Glovers' stay in the Championship only lasted for one season, Moore didn't disgrace himself as he found the back of the net five times in 24 appearances for Gary Johnson's side.
On their return to League One, Yeovil continued to struggle as Johnson was dismissed and replaced by his assistant Terry Skiverton before Paul Sturrock took charge at Huish Park.
However, Sturrock decided that Moore wasn't to be part of his plans for the South Somerset club as he was released at the end of the 2014-15 season, following their relegation to League Two.
Moore then found himself playing in Norway for Viking FC and returned to England for trials with Exeter City and Leyton Orient before signing for National League side Forest Green Rovers.
Now, after his recent loan move, Moore finds himself back home and it is hoped that he, and a fellow loanee Shawn McClousky, can boost the Gulls' goals for tally, which sees Kevin Nicholson's side second only to North Ferriby United as the division's lowest scorers.
Moore, 24, was part of the Gulls' Centre of Excellence programme prior to its closure under former Chairman Mike Bateson in 2004 and it was with South Devon League side Paignton Saints where he reignited his career before moving on to Truro City in 2012.
Financial problems with the White Tigers meant that he was soon on the move to Truro's then fellow Conference South Dorchester Town. His performances for the Magpies brought him to the attention's of Charlton Athletic who offered him a trial in May 2013.
Although the Addicks didn't offer Moore a permanent deal, he would later be plying his trade in the Championship as Yeovil Town - then recently promoted to the second tier of English football for the first time in their history - offered him a two-year deal following a successful trial.
Despite the fact that the Glovers' stay in the Championship only lasted for one season, Moore didn't disgrace himself as he found the back of the net five times in 24 appearances for Gary Johnson's side.
On their return to League One, Yeovil continued to struggle as Johnson was dismissed and replaced by his assistant Terry Skiverton before Paul Sturrock took charge at Huish Park.
However, Sturrock decided that Moore wasn't to be part of his plans for the South Somerset club as he was released at the end of the 2014-15 season, following their relegation to League Two.
Moore then found himself playing in Norway for Viking FC and returned to England for trials with Exeter City and Leyton Orient before signing for National League side Forest Green Rovers.
Now, after his recent loan move, Moore finds himself back home and it is hoped that he, and a fellow loanee Shawn McClousky, can boost the Gulls' goals for tally, which sees Kevin Nicholson's side second only to North Ferriby United as the division's lowest scorers.
Monday 7 November 2016
AN ACHIEVEMENT BY UNITY
Yeovil Town Ladies waved goodbye to FA Women's Super League Two with a 3-0 win over Sheffield Ladies FC to clinch the league title at the expense of Bristol City Women.
Having secured promotion in their previous fixture against London Bees,the Lady Glovers went into the final round of fixtures knowing that they needed to better the Vixens result against Oxford United Ladies. Any fears of stage fright were put to rest when Lucy Quinn gave them the lead on 15 minutes - a lead which they held until the half-time break.
Within a minute of the restart for the second half, Annie Heatherson doubled Yeovil's lead before Nicola Cousins added a third goal late on to put the icing on the cake for Jamie Sherwood's side in front of a club record crowd of 1,384.
Their success this season now means that the Lady Glovers will be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Arsenal Ladies, Chelsea Ladies and Manchester City Women in a summer series which starts next Spring before the FA Women's Super League switches from a summer season to a winter programme.
Yeovil's elevated status will also mean that several of the England side that finished third in the Women's World Cup in Canada in 2015, including Steph Houghton, Lucy Bronze, Eni Aluko and Karen Carney, along with Scotland's Kim Little, who recently re-joined Arsenal Ladies from American side Seattle Reign, will be appearing at Huish Park.
Their feat represents remarkable progress which the men's game could probably equated to AFC Bournemouth winning promotion to the Premier League, but as the Cherries have shown it is possible to compete at the highest level with team spirit, organisation and togetherness: traits that sum up Yeovil Town Ladies' club of 'achieve by unity'.
Having secured promotion in their previous fixture against London Bees,the Lady Glovers went into the final round of fixtures knowing that they needed to better the Vixens result against Oxford United Ladies. Any fears of stage fright were put to rest when Lucy Quinn gave them the lead on 15 minutes - a lead which they held until the half-time break.
Within a minute of the restart for the second half, Annie Heatherson doubled Yeovil's lead before Nicola Cousins added a third goal late on to put the icing on the cake for Jamie Sherwood's side in front of a club record crowd of 1,384.
Their success this season now means that the Lady Glovers will be rubbing shoulders with the likes of Arsenal Ladies, Chelsea Ladies and Manchester City Women in a summer series which starts next Spring before the FA Women's Super League switches from a summer season to a winter programme.
Yeovil's elevated status will also mean that several of the England side that finished third in the Women's World Cup in Canada in 2015, including Steph Houghton, Lucy Bronze, Eni Aluko and Karen Carney, along with Scotland's Kim Little, who recently re-joined Arsenal Ladies from American side Seattle Reign, will be appearing at Huish Park.
Their feat represents remarkable progress which the men's game could probably equated to AFC Bournemouth winning promotion to the Premier League, but as the Cherries have shown it is possible to compete at the highest level with team spirit, organisation and togetherness: traits that sum up Yeovil Town Ladies' club of 'achieve by unity'.
PIRATES CLASH POSSIBLE REWARD FOR PEACOCKS
If Taunton Town are able to overcome Barrow in their FA Cup 1st round replay a week tomorrow then they could be facing Bristol Rovers in round two.
The Peacocks drew 2-2 with their National League opponents on Sunday in a game that they led twice as former Plymouth Argyle starlet Matt Wright and ex Pilgrims and Torquay United defender Matt Villis gave them the lead.
However, they were pegged back by Barrow, managed by former Torquay boss Paul Cox, as Byron Harrison netted from the penalty spot and Richie Bennett forced the ball over the line following good work from Liam Hughes, who later dismissed for head-butting Taunton keeper Lloyd Irish.
Should the Peacocks upset the odds in the re-match at Holker Street then they will be playing either Crawley Town or Bristol Rovers away in the next stage of the competition and a meeting with the latter would attract a great deal of interest.
It would also be the first time ever that Taunton have made the second round of the FA Cup, having previously reached the first round for the only previous time in the 1981-82 season.
Taunton's Somerset neighbours Yeovil Town will also need a replay to overcome the now managerless Solihull Moors - Saturday's tie was the final match in charge for Marcus Bignot who recently accepted the Grimsby Town manager's job - and a trip to Exeter City's conquerors Luton Town.
Plymouth Argyle will be at home to either Alfreton Town, managed by former Pilgrims' midfielder Nicky Law, or Newport County after they defeated Mansfield Town 2-1 at Field Mill.
The Peacocks drew 2-2 with their National League opponents on Sunday in a game that they led twice as former Plymouth Argyle starlet Matt Wright and ex Pilgrims and Torquay United defender Matt Villis gave them the lead.
However, they were pegged back by Barrow, managed by former Torquay boss Paul Cox, as Byron Harrison netted from the penalty spot and Richie Bennett forced the ball over the line following good work from Liam Hughes, who later dismissed for head-butting Taunton keeper Lloyd Irish.
Should the Peacocks upset the odds in the re-match at Holker Street then they will be playing either Crawley Town or Bristol Rovers away in the next stage of the competition and a meeting with the latter would attract a great deal of interest.
It would also be the first time ever that Taunton have made the second round of the FA Cup, having previously reached the first round for the only previous time in the 1981-82 season.
Taunton's Somerset neighbours Yeovil Town will also need a replay to overcome the now managerless Solihull Moors - Saturday's tie was the final match in charge for Marcus Bignot who recently accepted the Grimsby Town manager's job - and a trip to Exeter City's conquerors Luton Town.
Plymouth Argyle will be at home to either Alfreton Town, managed by former Pilgrims' midfielder Nicky Law, or Newport County after they defeated Mansfield Town 2-1 at Field Mill.
Sunday 30 October 2016
THIRTEEN NOT UNLUCKY FOR ARGYLE
Thirteen certainly wasn't an unlucky number for Plymouth Argyle as they extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches with a victory over Colchester United.
On loan winger Craig Tanner gave the Pilgrims the lead before Craig Slater equalised for the U's, but Ryan Donaldson scored a late winner for Argyle - two minutes after coming on as a substitute.
The result means the Pilgrims have now equalled their joint best start to the league campaign since the 1929-30 season - but the game will probably be remembered for the injury sustained by referee Kevin Johnson following an accidental collision with Argyle striker Jimmy Spencer on 76 minutes, which resulted in a ten minute delay.
Next week, the Pilgrims take a break from league action as they travel to face Mansfield Town in the first round of the Emirates FA Cup.
When they return to league action in a fortnight's time, they will be making the trip to Crewe Alexandra who are currently in seventh place in the League Two table.
On loan winger Craig Tanner gave the Pilgrims the lead before Craig Slater equalised for the U's, but Ryan Donaldson scored a late winner for Argyle - two minutes after coming on as a substitute.
The result means the Pilgrims have now equalled their joint best start to the league campaign since the 1929-30 season - but the game will probably be remembered for the injury sustained by referee Kevin Johnson following an accidental collision with Argyle striker Jimmy Spencer on 76 minutes, which resulted in a ten minute delay.
Next week, the Pilgrims take a break from league action as they travel to face Mansfield Town in the first round of the Emirates FA Cup.
When they return to league action in a fortnight's time, they will be making the trip to Crewe Alexandra who are currently in seventh place in the League Two table.
Sunday 23 October 2016
UNITED MOORE THE MERRIER AFTER GOALKEEPING HEROICS
A goalkeeping master class from Torquay keeper Brendan Moore
was instrumental in securing a point for the Gulls against Aldershot.
“He’s got a presence about him, with most of the saves he made I wasn’t as worried as much as you’d thought I might have be.
Waddock said “He (Moore) had a wordly in fairness to him”.
Moore, who hails from Atlanta, Georgia - the birthplace of civil rights leader Martin Luther King - twice denied Aldershot's Bernard Mensah in the opening 15 minutes of the first half.
After the half-time break, he was called upon to keep Shots' substitute Matt McClure at bay on two occasions in the opening minutes of the second half and on 79 minutes he prevented former Gulls' loanee Shamir Fenelon - formerly Goodwin.
On one occasion when he was beaten - by McClure in the 89th minute - the post came to his rescue.
That's not say United weren't without chances themselves as two of their Aldershot old boys Brett Williams and Damon Lathrope combined to create an opportunity that saw Lathrope head over.
Jamie Reid also had several chances and Joe Ward nearly snatched all three points at the end with the right footed volley that sailed wide, but the Gulls remain indebted to Moore for his heroics.
The American made a string of saves throughout the match
that kept the Shots at bay that earned him praise from both his own manager
Kevin Nicholson and Aldershot boss Gary Waddock.
“He (Moore) has done very well, you would fancy Brendan in
those situations,” said Nicholson, who brought himself on a substitute late in
the first half. “He’s got a presence about him, with most of the saves he made I wasn’t as worried as much as you’d thought I might have be.
“It wasn’t as though as we were without threat ourselves,
but we did the ugly side better than we created chances today.”
“It’s a massive credit to the boys that they stayed pretty
calm; for the most part they did the basics well, but take nothing away from
Aldershot - they’re a good side.”Waddock said “He (Moore) had a wordly in fairness to him”.
“He’s had a day today that he will remember for a very long
time. All credit to him, but we’ve got to find a way to beat him and he got the
better of our front players today.
“I’m frustrated because we had chances to win the game, we
had a lot of possession and we did dominate the game for long spells. Moore, who hails from Atlanta, Georgia - the birthplace of civil rights leader Martin Luther King - twice denied Aldershot's Bernard Mensah in the opening 15 minutes of the first half.
After the half-time break, he was called upon to keep Shots' substitute Matt McClure at bay on two occasions in the opening minutes of the second half and on 79 minutes he prevented former Gulls' loanee Shamir Fenelon - formerly Goodwin.
On one occasion when he was beaten - by McClure in the 89th minute - the post came to his rescue.
That's not say United weren't without chances themselves as two of their Aldershot old boys Brett Williams and Damon Lathrope combined to create an opportunity that saw Lathrope head over.
Jamie Reid also had several chances and Joe Ward nearly snatched all three points at the end with the right footed volley that sailed wide, but the Gulls remain indebted to Moore for his heroics.
Thursday 20 October 2016
TAUNTON MAKE HISTORY WHILST GULLS CRASH OUT
Taunton Town will be in the first round proper of the FA Cup for only the second time in the club's history after they beat Hemel Hempstead in their fourth qualifying round replay.
A 16th minute penalty from Jordan Rodgers proved to be enough for the Peacocks to progress at the expense of their National League South opponents as they will now make their first appearance in the first round since 1981.
Their reward will be a home tie against National League side Barrow, who are managed by former Torquay United manager Paul Cox.
Unfortunately the Peacocks will not be joined by the Gulls as they went down to a 2-1 defeat in their replay against fellow National League side Woking.
As in the first meeting, United led at the half-time break after Sam Chaney scored his first goal for the club on 22 minutes. However, a second half brace from former Yeovil Town and Plymouth Argyle loanee Gozie Ugwu ensured that the Cards progressed at the Gulls' expense and face Stockport County, now of National League North, in the next round and pocketed the £12,500 prize money in the process.
A 16th minute penalty from Jordan Rodgers proved to be enough for the Peacocks to progress at the expense of their National League South opponents as they will now make their first appearance in the first round since 1981.
Their reward will be a home tie against National League side Barrow, who are managed by former Torquay United manager Paul Cox.
Unfortunately the Peacocks will not be joined by the Gulls as they went down to a 2-1 defeat in their replay against fellow National League side Woking.
As in the first meeting, United led at the half-time break after Sam Chaney scored his first goal for the club on 22 minutes. However, a second half brace from former Yeovil Town and Plymouth Argyle loanee Gozie Ugwu ensured that the Cards progressed at the Gulls' expense and face Stockport County, now of National League North, in the next round and pocketed the £12,500 prize money in the process.
Wednesday 12 October 2016
GULLS UP FOR THE CUP
During his seven years as a player with Torquay United between 2007 and 2014, Kevin Nicholson won 12 FA Cup ties in a spell that saw the Gulls reach the fourth round twice.
Now, in 2016, Nicholson will be looking to recapture their spirit of their previous successes as they prepare to welcome Woking to Plainmoor on Saturday.
United haven't tasted victory in the world's oldest knock out competition since they defeated Chesterfield in the first round of the 2011-12 campaign on November 12th, 2011 and, following their 3-2 second round defeat against Sheffield United of the same season, as well as failing to secure a win the Gulls haven't managed to score.
In the last two seasons, they have failed to qualify for the first round proper - having lost out in the fourth qualifying round.
However, if United were looking for any inspiration for turning around such an appalling run they need look no further than to Plymouth Argyle.
The Pilgrims, who famously reached the semi-finals of the competition in 1984, endured a wretched spell in the cup between 2008 and 2013. In 2008, Argyle were knocked out in the fourth round by eventual winners Portsmouth, which sparked a run of five years without a win.
Although they earned a plum draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the third round in the 2008-09 season, they endured a winless streak that included defeats against Stourbridge of the Southern Premier League and Dorchester Town, then of National League South, in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 campaigns respectively.
This nightmare run came to an end in the 2013-14 season when a first round win over Lincoln City sparked a run to the third round where the Pilgrims were eliminated by Port Vale.
A similar run in the current campaign for the Gulls would certainly come in handy in terms of prize money and gate receipts, given the financial unease surrounding the club which has seen Nicholson drive the team mini-bus to the recent fixture against Chester FC to enable the players to afford an overnight stay.
Now, in 2016, Nicholson will be looking to recapture their spirit of their previous successes as they prepare to welcome Woking to Plainmoor on Saturday.
United haven't tasted victory in the world's oldest knock out competition since they defeated Chesterfield in the first round of the 2011-12 campaign on November 12th, 2011 and, following their 3-2 second round defeat against Sheffield United of the same season, as well as failing to secure a win the Gulls haven't managed to score.
In the last two seasons, they have failed to qualify for the first round proper - having lost out in the fourth qualifying round.
However, if United were looking for any inspiration for turning around such an appalling run they need look no further than to Plymouth Argyle.
The Pilgrims, who famously reached the semi-finals of the competition in 1984, endured a wretched spell in the cup between 2008 and 2013. In 2008, Argyle were knocked out in the fourth round by eventual winners Portsmouth, which sparked a run of five years without a win.
Although they earned a plum draw with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the third round in the 2008-09 season, they endured a winless streak that included defeats against Stourbridge of the Southern Premier League and Dorchester Town, then of National League South, in the 2011-12 and 2012-13 campaigns respectively.
This nightmare run came to an end in the 2013-14 season when a first round win over Lincoln City sparked a run to the third round where the Pilgrims were eliminated by Port Vale.
A similar run in the current campaign for the Gulls would certainly come in handy in terms of prize money and gate receipts, given the financial unease surrounding the club which has seen Nicholson drive the team mini-bus to the recent fixture against Chester FC to enable the players to afford an overnight stay.
Thursday 6 October 2016
GOLDEN GRAHAM
As Plymouth Argyle's League Two promotion bid gathers pace, the Pilgrims are looking to tie up the long term future of midfield talisman Graham Carey.
Carey, 27, is one of the few survivors in the current Argyle squad from last year's Play-off final defeat against AFC Wimbledon. He has proved to be an influential figure for Derek Adams and is currently the Pilgrims' top scorer with five goals, including a stunning 25-yard strike against Yeovil Town recently.
If Argyle were to agree a longer contract with Carey - it would serve to keep the minds of the 'Green Army' at rest if he was to commit his long term future to the club.
Arguably Carey is the most talented midfielder to have pulled on the green shirt since Hungarian Akos Buzsaky left for QPR in November 2007 (Buzsaky joined the Hoops loan before making the move permanent in January 2008) and you also make a case that his presence in Paul Sturrock's title winning teams of 2001-02 and 2003-04 would improve both of those respective sides. Although you could also possibly make a similar case for Carey's compatriot Conor Hourihane, now of Barnsley.
One factor that could see Carey put pen to paper is the fact that he has worked under Derek Adams at Ross County during the 2013-14 season. Another positive that Argyle have in their factor in attempting to getting the former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international to put pen to paper is that he was prepared to stay and play under Adams this season when many of his former teammates left Home Park for pastures new last summer.
Adams has already committed his long term future to the Pilgrims - having agreed a deal until 2020 and it is likely that Carey will feature largely in any future plans that he may have for Argyle.
Carey, 27, is one of the few survivors in the current Argyle squad from last year's Play-off final defeat against AFC Wimbledon. He has proved to be an influential figure for Derek Adams and is currently the Pilgrims' top scorer with five goals, including a stunning 25-yard strike against Yeovil Town recently.
If Argyle were to agree a longer contract with Carey - it would serve to keep the minds of the 'Green Army' at rest if he was to commit his long term future to the club.
Arguably Carey is the most talented midfielder to have pulled on the green shirt since Hungarian Akos Buzsaky left for QPR in November 2007 (Buzsaky joined the Hoops loan before making the move permanent in January 2008) and you also make a case that his presence in Paul Sturrock's title winning teams of 2001-02 and 2003-04 would improve both of those respective sides. Although you could also possibly make a similar case for Carey's compatriot Conor Hourihane, now of Barnsley.
One factor that could see Carey put pen to paper is the fact that he has worked under Derek Adams at Ross County during the 2013-14 season. Another positive that Argyle have in their factor in attempting to getting the former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international to put pen to paper is that he was prepared to stay and play under Adams this season when many of his former teammates left Home Park for pastures new last summer.
Adams has already committed his long term future to the Pilgrims - having agreed a deal until 2020 and it is likely that Carey will feature largely in any future plans that he may have for Argyle.
Wednesday 28 September 2016
NICHOLSON'S FIRST ANNIVERSARY FACTS
As today marks the first anniversary of Kevin Nicholson's reign as Torquay United manager, we will now look at a few facts from the past twelve months of his tenure.
Transfers in: Aman Verma (Kidderminster Harriers, loan followed by permanent transfer), Ben Gerring (Unattached), Andre Wright (West Bromwich Albion, loan), Sean Finch & Scott Corderoy (Watcombe Wanderers, non-contract), Toby Ajala (Dover Athletic), Nathan Blissett (Bristol Rovers), Shaun Harrad (Worcester City), Josh Rees (Nottingham Forest, loan), Danny Racchi (Unattached), Iffy Allen (Yeovil Town), Brendan Moore (Fleetwood Town, loan followed by permanent transfer), Lathaniel Rowe-Turner (Kidderminster), Sean McGinty & Damon Lathrope (Both Aldershot Town), Dan Sparkes (Braintree Town), Brett Williams (Forest Green Rovers), Giancarlo Gallifuoco (Swansea City), Jamie Reid (Exeter City, loan), Jamie Robba (Unattached), Jamie Chamberlain (Bideford, non-contract), Joe Ward & Chay Scrivens (West Bromwich Albion, loan)
Transfers out: Simon Heslop & Louis Briscoe (Wrexham), James Hurst (Guiseley, undisclosed), Dan Lavercombe (Wigan Athletic, undisclosed - sale and loan back), Tyrone Marsh (Dover Athletic, undisclosed), Shepherd Murombedzi (Hayes & Yeading), Fabien Spiess (Boston United), Alex Fisher (Inverness Caledonian Thistle), Bayan Fenwick, Waide Fairhurst (FC Halifax), Exodus Geohaghon, Oneil Odofin (Corby Town), Liam Prynn (St Austell), Iffy Allen (Aldershot Town), Toby Ajala (Gateshead), Angus MacDonald (Barnsley, undisclosed)
- Nicholson's first managerial opponent is now taking up a new career as a Sports Journalist. Barry Smith, who was in charge of Aldershot Town on October 3rd 2015, is now covering his former club Dundee for the Dundee Evening Telegraph.
- His first win in charge came a week later away with a 1-0 victory Southport - courtesy of an early Alex Fisher strike.
- Nathan Blissett, who was a teammate of Nicholson's for a time during his stint with Kidderminster Harriers in the 2014-15 season, is the Gulls' top scorer during his reign at Plainmoor with 11 goals.
- His biggest win in charge remains the Gulls' 4-1 victory over his former side Forest Green Rovers - his first at Plainmoor - on Boxing Day 2015, which provided United with a late, if not unlikely, Christmas present.
- As well as facing two of his former clubs (Forest Green and Kidderminster) as a manager, Nicholson has also come up against an ex-boss (Jim Harvey, FC Halifax) a former teammate (Chris Todd, Eastleigh) and on two occasions he has faced his predecessor (Paul Cox, Barrow).
Transfers in: Aman Verma (Kidderminster Harriers, loan followed by permanent transfer), Ben Gerring (Unattached), Andre Wright (West Bromwich Albion, loan), Sean Finch & Scott Corderoy (Watcombe Wanderers, non-contract), Toby Ajala (Dover Athletic), Nathan Blissett (Bristol Rovers), Shaun Harrad (Worcester City), Josh Rees (Nottingham Forest, loan), Danny Racchi (Unattached), Iffy Allen (Yeovil Town), Brendan Moore (Fleetwood Town, loan followed by permanent transfer), Lathaniel Rowe-Turner (Kidderminster), Sean McGinty & Damon Lathrope (Both Aldershot Town), Dan Sparkes (Braintree Town), Brett Williams (Forest Green Rovers), Giancarlo Gallifuoco (Swansea City), Jamie Reid (Exeter City, loan), Jamie Robba (Unattached), Jamie Chamberlain (Bideford, non-contract), Joe Ward & Chay Scrivens (West Bromwich Albion, loan)
Transfers out: Simon Heslop & Louis Briscoe (Wrexham), James Hurst (Guiseley, undisclosed), Dan Lavercombe (Wigan Athletic, undisclosed - sale and loan back), Tyrone Marsh (Dover Athletic, undisclosed), Shepherd Murombedzi (Hayes & Yeading), Fabien Spiess (Boston United), Alex Fisher (Inverness Caledonian Thistle), Bayan Fenwick, Waide Fairhurst (FC Halifax), Exodus Geohaghon, Oneil Odofin (Corby Town), Liam Prynn (St Austell), Iffy Allen (Aldershot Town), Toby Ajala (Gateshead), Angus MacDonald (Barnsley, undisclosed)
NICHOLSON'S FIRST ANNIVERSARY IN CHARGE AT PLAINMOOR
Whilst Paul Cox never stayed around long enough as Torquay United manager for the Plainmoor faithful to get to know him properly, the same couldn't be said about Kevin Nicholson.
With 312 appearances over seven years between 2007 and 2014, which included a promotion from the Conference in 2009 and a PFA team of the year inclusion in 2012, the Gulls were on familiar terms with Nicholson when he was appointed as Cox's successor.
The seven years at Torquay is the longest spell that Nicholson has spent at a single club during his career - it is worth noting he is still registered as a player at Plainmoor - which has included spells with sides as diverse as Sheffield Wednesday (for whom he made a solitary appearance for in the Premier League), Northampton Town, Notts County, Scarborough, Forest Green Rovers, the Gulls, Kidderminster Harriers and Bath City.
Given that he spent the longest amount of time at Torquay it is perhaps not surprising that Paul Buckle, who he served under for the first four of those seven years, and Martin Ling - who he played under for two.
Both of those two are vastly different characters, but their respective approaches are likely to have shaped Nicholson's outlook on his fledgling managerial career. A manager with Buckle's organisation skills and Ling's gift for man-management would surely go along way in professional football.
In the past year, Nicholson could look at his stint in charge with the Gulls with some sense of pride, after lifting United away from what seemed like a very precarious position - as they were 12 points adrift of safety by mid- February when the prospect of regional non-league football for the first time since 1927 looked like a distinct possibility.
As a backdrop to this, the players were - and still do on occasions - were driving to away games on the Friday as the club could not both afford a coach and overnight hotel for the same trips. There were other times when Nicholson was driving the players in the team mini-bus to certain games.
However, with a nucleus of new signings made in the January transfer window, that danger was soon averted thanks in no small part to a strong defensive record which saw the Gulls go over 400 minutes without conceding. The goals of Nathan Blissett and Shaun Harrad also proved to be crucial as Torquay finished the campaign in 18th place.
This season, at the time of writing, United are 16th in the National League with 13 points - three more than they had at the time of his arrival - as the next task of building a side that could lead the Gulls back into the Football League remains a work in progress.
With 312 appearances over seven years between 2007 and 2014, which included a promotion from the Conference in 2009 and a PFA team of the year inclusion in 2012, the Gulls were on familiar terms with Nicholson when he was appointed as Cox's successor.
The seven years at Torquay is the longest spell that Nicholson has spent at a single club during his career - it is worth noting he is still registered as a player at Plainmoor - which has included spells with sides as diverse as Sheffield Wednesday (for whom he made a solitary appearance for in the Premier League), Northampton Town, Notts County, Scarborough, Forest Green Rovers, the Gulls, Kidderminster Harriers and Bath City.
Given that he spent the longest amount of time at Torquay it is perhaps not surprising that Paul Buckle, who he served under for the first four of those seven years, and Martin Ling - who he played under for two.
Both of those two are vastly different characters, but their respective approaches are likely to have shaped Nicholson's outlook on his fledgling managerial career. A manager with Buckle's organisation skills and Ling's gift for man-management would surely go along way in professional football.
In the past year, Nicholson could look at his stint in charge with the Gulls with some sense of pride, after lifting United away from what seemed like a very precarious position - as they were 12 points adrift of safety by mid- February when the prospect of regional non-league football for the first time since 1927 looked like a distinct possibility.
As a backdrop to this, the players were - and still do on occasions - were driving to away games on the Friday as the club could not both afford a coach and overnight hotel for the same trips. There were other times when Nicholson was driving the players in the team mini-bus to certain games.
However, with a nucleus of new signings made in the January transfer window, that danger was soon averted thanks in no small part to a strong defensive record which saw the Gulls go over 400 minutes without conceding. The goals of Nathan Blissett and Shaun Harrad also proved to be crucial as Torquay finished the campaign in 18th place.
This season, at the time of writing, United are 16th in the National League with 13 points - three more than they had at the time of his arrival - as the next task of building a side that could lead the Gulls back into the Football League remains a work in progress.
Monday 26 September 2016
WAY ENSURES AN UNHAPPY HOME COMING FOR JOHNSON
Gary Johnson's return to Huish Park, the scene of many of his greatest triumphs as Yeovil Town, proved to be an unhappy one as his Cheltenham Town side were defeated by Darren Way's Glovers.
Goals from Otis Khan and Darren Ward gave Yeovil a two-goal cushion before former Torquay United defender Aaron Downes replied for the Robins before Matt Dolan added a third for the Glovers on the stroke of half-time.
In the 57th minute, Billy Waters reduced Cheltenham's arrears to a single goal but an excellent solo goal from leading scorer Tom Eaves in injury time ensured that Way the apprentice would outfox Johnson the master.
It will not be the first time this season that Johnson will face one of his former Huish Park charges as the Robins are due to face a Luton Town side managed by former Glovers' left-back Nathan Jones.
Way and Jones are not the only members of the Yeovil squads that Johnson managed to be taking their first steps in the world of management.
Johnson's son, Lee, is currently managed Bristol City in the Championship following promising spells with Oldham and Barnsley, whilst former Glovers defender Adam Lockwood recently took charge of National League side Guiseley on a permanent basis following a successful caretaker spell.
Further down the pyramid former midfield schemer Gavin Williams is managing Merthyr Town in the Southern League Premier.
Goals from Otis Khan and Darren Ward gave Yeovil a two-goal cushion before former Torquay United defender Aaron Downes replied for the Robins before Matt Dolan added a third for the Glovers on the stroke of half-time.
In the 57th minute, Billy Waters reduced Cheltenham's arrears to a single goal but an excellent solo goal from leading scorer Tom Eaves in injury time ensured that Way the apprentice would outfox Johnson the master.
It will not be the first time this season that Johnson will face one of his former Huish Park charges as the Robins are due to face a Luton Town side managed by former Glovers' left-back Nathan Jones.
Way and Jones are not the only members of the Yeovil squads that Johnson managed to be taking their first steps in the world of management.
Johnson's son, Lee, is currently managed Bristol City in the Championship following promising spells with Oldham and Barnsley, whilst former Glovers defender Adam Lockwood recently took charge of National League side Guiseley on a permanent basis following a successful caretaker spell.
Further down the pyramid former midfield schemer Gavin Williams is managing Merthyr Town in the Southern League Premier.
Sunday 18 September 2016
ADAMS EXORCISES DEVON DERBY GHOSTS
'Devon is Green and White tonight' declared Plymouth Argyle manager Derek Adams after watching his Pilgrims side defeat Exeter City at St James Park.
First half goals from Graham Carey and Paul Arnold Garita saw Argyle come away from their great rivals with maximum points with their seventh successive win - thus strengthening their position at the top of League Two.
This is in direct contrast to the Grecians who drop back into the bottom two of the division.
Much of the talk in the build-up to the game was surrounding Reuben Reid's transfer to Exeter during the week, but he was restricted to a 26 minute cameo, after coming on a substitute in the 64th minute.
In the corresponding fixture between these two sides last season, the Pilgrims looked to be in the driving seat after Jamille Matt had put them in front on 57 minutes with his third goal in as many games.
However, two late strikes from starlet Ollie Watkins swung the game back in City's favour.
On this occasion, there was to be no fairy tale moment for the Grecians as the Pilgrims resolutely did their job and secured a 2-0 victory and local bragging rights in the process.
First half goals from Graham Carey and Paul Arnold Garita saw Argyle come away from their great rivals with maximum points with their seventh successive win - thus strengthening their position at the top of League Two.
This is in direct contrast to the Grecians who drop back into the bottom two of the division.
Much of the talk in the build-up to the game was surrounding Reuben Reid's transfer to Exeter during the week, but he was restricted to a 26 minute cameo, after coming on a substitute in the 64th minute.
In the corresponding fixture between these two sides last season, the Pilgrims looked to be in the driving seat after Jamille Matt had put them in front on 57 minutes with his third goal in as many games.
However, two late strikes from starlet Ollie Watkins swung the game back in City's favour.
On this occasion, there was to be no fairy tale moment for the Grecians as the Pilgrims resolutely did their job and secured a 2-0 victory and local bragging rights in the process.
Wednesday 14 September 2016
REUBEN IS A GRECIAN
After being unable to find a new club over the course of pre-season following his release by Plymouth Argyle, Reuben Reid has signed for Exeter City - giving Saturday's derby between the Pilgrims and the Grecians an extra twist.
Whilst throughout the history of professional football in Britain many players have joined their team's most hated rivals, ranging from Sol Campbell to Nick Barmby to Denis Law, but not many have done so - to the best of your correspondent's knowledge - when the two teams in questions are about to play each other.
Another interesting angle on this deal is that Reid has netted five goals against City for Argyle in the past three seasons - including a hat-trick in 2015, which made him the first player to do so in that fixture since 1929 when Ray Bowden hit a treble for the Pilgrims. He also laid on the assist for Jamille Matt's opener at St James Park last season before Ollie Watkins netted with two stunning strikes to seal a dramatic late win for the Grecians.
The deal is subject to FA and Football League approval, but looks set to completed in time for Saturday and it will be interesting to see if Exeter manager Paul Tisdale includes in his match-day squad.
Once he appears for the Grecians Reid will become the most recent player to join the select band who have played for all three Devon professional sides, as he also had a loan spell with Torquay United earlier in his career.
Whilst throughout the history of professional football in Britain many players have joined their team's most hated rivals, ranging from Sol Campbell to Nick Barmby to Denis Law, but not many have done so - to the best of your correspondent's knowledge - when the two teams in questions are about to play each other.
Another interesting angle on this deal is that Reid has netted five goals against City for Argyle in the past three seasons - including a hat-trick in 2015, which made him the first player to do so in that fixture since 1929 when Ray Bowden hit a treble for the Pilgrims. He also laid on the assist for Jamille Matt's opener at St James Park last season before Ollie Watkins netted with two stunning strikes to seal a dramatic late win for the Grecians.
The deal is subject to FA and Football League approval, but looks set to completed in time for Saturday and it will be interesting to see if Exeter manager Paul Tisdale includes in his match-day squad.
Once he appears for the Grecians Reid will become the most recent player to join the select band who have played for all three Devon professional sides, as he also had a loan spell with Torquay United earlier in his career.
Monday 12 September 2016
DEVON FOOTBALL RIVALRIES EXPLAINED
In the build up to this weekend's Devon Expressway derby between Exeter City and Plymouth Argyle, I will now take a closer look at Devon's footballing rivalries.
If you asked me to describe the rivalry to an outsider it would probably go something like this; Torquay United fans dislike both Exeter and Argyle, but hate Exeter more because historically they've played each other more often.
Argyle hate Exeter and see Torquay as sort of country cousin - probably not too different from the way West Ham fans view Leyton Orient for example. Exeter fans hate Argyle with a passion but pretend not to care about Torquay whilst - at the same time - being very bothered about them.
An explanation for this feeling could probably be explained using the relationship between the cities of Plymouth and Exeter. Plymouth of course is Devon's largest city, whereas Exeter is its administrative headquarters.
Also a strong level of competition exists between the cities Rugby Union teams, however in recent years this has cooled as Exeter Chiefs have risen to the Premiership whilst Plymouth Albion have dropped to National League One.
In addition to this, both the cities universities are often competing against each other when university league tables are published.
Torquay, on the other hand, is seen by many as a place to go to for a holiday or a night out, so it doesn't inspire the same level of dislike.
Nevertheless, this rivalry has been in a state of flux since the turn of the century, as both Exeter and Torquay have both had spells in the Conference but have also had spells where they have finished higher in the football pyramid than Argyle.
In the 2011-12 season, the Grecians were playing in a higher league than the Pilgrims whereas Torquay recorded their first league double over Argyle since the 1971-72 campaign.
However, normal service has resumed in recent years with the Pilgrims having finished above Exeter in each of the last three seasons, although in two of the last three seasons the Grecians have completed the double over Argyle.
During this time Torquay have dropped back into the Conference for a second spell and are striving to escape from it.
Relations between the Gulls and the Pilgrims are such that a number of former Greens have swapped Britain's Ocean City for the English Riviera when they have been deemed surplus to requirements at Home Park in recent times.
Around 25 players have made this journey from John Uzzell and John Matthews in 1989 to players like Luke Young and Durrell Berry in more recent times.
In stark contrast, only Darren Rowbotham, Chris Curran, Martin Barlow, Sean McCarthy, Gary Sawyer and Craig Noone - the latter two on loan deals - are the only players to have travelled up the Devon Expressway in the same time scale. Although Jamie Mackie swapped Red and White for Green in January 2008 before going on to Queens Park Rangers, Nottingham Forest and Scotland.
Nevertheless, it promises to be an interesting afternoon for Argyle midfielder David Fox, who arrived at Home Park in the summer from Crewe Alexandra.
Fox, 32, is the son of former Grecians manager Peter Fox, who was in charge at St James Park between 1995 and 2000, and was connected with City until the age of 16 when he joined Manchester United.
If you asked me to describe the rivalry to an outsider it would probably go something like this; Torquay United fans dislike both Exeter and Argyle, but hate Exeter more because historically they've played each other more often.
Argyle hate Exeter and see Torquay as sort of country cousin - probably not too different from the way West Ham fans view Leyton Orient for example. Exeter fans hate Argyle with a passion but pretend not to care about Torquay whilst - at the same time - being very bothered about them.
An explanation for this feeling could probably be explained using the relationship between the cities of Plymouth and Exeter. Plymouth of course is Devon's largest city, whereas Exeter is its administrative headquarters.
Also a strong level of competition exists between the cities Rugby Union teams, however in recent years this has cooled as Exeter Chiefs have risen to the Premiership whilst Plymouth Albion have dropped to National League One.
In addition to this, both the cities universities are often competing against each other when university league tables are published.
Torquay, on the other hand, is seen by many as a place to go to for a holiday or a night out, so it doesn't inspire the same level of dislike.
Nevertheless, this rivalry has been in a state of flux since the turn of the century, as both Exeter and Torquay have both had spells in the Conference but have also had spells where they have finished higher in the football pyramid than Argyle.
In the 2011-12 season, the Grecians were playing in a higher league than the Pilgrims whereas Torquay recorded their first league double over Argyle since the 1971-72 campaign.
However, normal service has resumed in recent years with the Pilgrims having finished above Exeter in each of the last three seasons, although in two of the last three seasons the Grecians have completed the double over Argyle.
During this time Torquay have dropped back into the Conference for a second spell and are striving to escape from it.
Relations between the Gulls and the Pilgrims are such that a number of former Greens have swapped Britain's Ocean City for the English Riviera when they have been deemed surplus to requirements at Home Park in recent times.
Around 25 players have made this journey from John Uzzell and John Matthews in 1989 to players like Luke Young and Durrell Berry in more recent times.
In stark contrast, only Darren Rowbotham, Chris Curran, Martin Barlow, Sean McCarthy, Gary Sawyer and Craig Noone - the latter two on loan deals - are the only players to have travelled up the Devon Expressway in the same time scale. Although Jamie Mackie swapped Red and White for Green in January 2008 before going on to Queens Park Rangers, Nottingham Forest and Scotland.
Nevertheless, it promises to be an interesting afternoon for Argyle midfielder David Fox, who arrived at Home Park in the summer from Crewe Alexandra.
Fox, 32, is the son of former Grecians manager Peter Fox, who was in charge at St James Park between 1995 and 2000, and was connected with City until the age of 16 when he joined Manchester United.
Saturday 10 September 2016
GULLS PROVIDE WACKER WITH A PERFECT SEND OFF
He may not have received the romantic obituaries that his contemporary Robin Stubbs will probably get when he enters the great 'penalty box in the sky', but Torquay United gave Alan Smith the perfect send off by beating York City at Plainmoor.
After observing one minute's silence for sixties stalwart Smith, who was fondly referred to as 'Wacker' and made 303 appearances for United - including their famous 3-3 FA Cup draw with Tottenham Hotspur in 1965 - the 2016 Gulls under the command of Kevin Nicholson dispatched the Minstermen 2-0 - thanks in no small part to a first half brace from Nathan Blissett.
Smith was also a promotion winner whilst at Plainmoor, as part of Frank O'Farrell's team who finished third in the 1965-66 season. Hopefully several members of the current Torquay side will join him in that select group, but - given the nature of modern football - it's unlikely many of them will join him in the 300 club, although player-manager Kevin Nicholson has made 326 appearances for the Gulls, let alone get close to Kevin Hill's club record of 474.
After observing one minute's silence for sixties stalwart Smith, who was fondly referred to as 'Wacker' and made 303 appearances for United - including their famous 3-3 FA Cup draw with Tottenham Hotspur in 1965 - the 2016 Gulls under the command of Kevin Nicholson dispatched the Minstermen 2-0 - thanks in no small part to a first half brace from Nathan Blissett.
Smith was also a promotion winner whilst at Plainmoor, as part of Frank O'Farrell's team who finished third in the 1965-66 season. Hopefully several members of the current Torquay side will join him in that select group, but - given the nature of modern football - it's unlikely many of them will join him in the 300 club, although player-manager Kevin Nicholson has made 326 appearances for the Gulls, let alone get close to Kevin Hill's club record of 474.
Wednesday 31 August 2016
NICE ONE, CYRIL
As today marks the 25th anniversary of the passing of former Torquay United manager Cyril Knowles, we will now take a look back at the career of the Spurs and England left back, who also become the first man to lead Torquay United to Wembley in 1989.
Of all the names associated with both Torquay United and Darlington, the most famous one is surely that of Cyril Knowles.
And achieved it with largely the group of players that inherited, with the addition of Phil Lloyd, who followed him from Darlington, his assistant Sean Haslegrave and barnstorming Scottish striker Dave Caldwell.
An abridged version of this article appeared in the Torquay United vs Darlington programme on Saturday 12th December, 2009.
Of all the names associated with both Torquay United and Darlington, the most famous one is surely that of Cyril Knowles.
The popular former Spurs and England
Cyril led the Quakers to promotion from Division Four in the 1984-85 campaign, and also kept them in Division Three,
prior to his arrival in South Devon in the summer of 1987 following the departure
of Stuart Morgan.
Before his appointment at Plainmoor, the Gulls had endured a number of
difficult seasons that had seen them only retain their Football League status
through re-election and a last day escape against Crewe Alexandra.
Cyril galvanised the club in his first season in charge and
led the Gulls to brink of promotion one year after they were almost relegated
to the Conference, as they lost out to Swansea City
And achieved it with largely the group of players that inherited, with the addition of Phil Lloyd, who followed him from Darlington, his assistant Sean Haslegrave and barnstorming Scottish striker Dave Caldwell.
He also masterminded a memorable 1-0 win over his former
club Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup courtesy of a goal from Derek Dawkins.
However, Torquay were beaten in the return leg at White Hart Lane
His reign at Plainmoor also coincided with the emergence of
a talented teenager from the West Midlands by
the name of Lee Sharpe. In his 2005 Autobiography, My Idea of Fun, Sharpe
accredits Cyril’s ‘Murderball’ sessions for providing him with some extra
toughness which stood him in good stead in a career that saw him play for
Manchester United, Leeds and England
The 1988-89 season saw Cyril etch his name permanently into
the folklore of Torquay United when he guided the Gulls to the final of the
Sherpa Van Trophy. This meant Torquay became the first of the three Devon
Football League sides to play at Wembley.
After trailing Wolves 2-1 in the Southern Area Final first
leg on aggregate, the Gulls produced a memorable 2-0 victory at Molineux in the
second leg. Goals from Mark Loram and Dean Edwards as well as a memorable
goalkeeping display from Kenny Allen ensured Torquay would face Bolton
Wanderers in the final.
Another hallmark of the Gulls’ display was the tactical
awareness that Cyril showed to keep Wolves’ prolific strike force of Steve Bull
and Andy Mutch at bay.
Sadly, the Gulls were unable to repeat the heroics of
Molineux and, despite taking a first half lead through Dean Edwards: they were
defeated 4-1 by the Trotters.
Cyril resigned as manager in the 1989-90 campaign following
a disagreement with Chairman Lew Pope and later became manager of Hartlepool
United. He looked set to guide the Pools to promotion from Division Four before
he was diagnosed with a brain tumour in March 1991.
Sadly, the brain tumour would claim his life and Cyril
passed away on August 31st 1991. Following his death a floral
tribute was placed outside Plainmoor which read “Thank you for showing us that
Wembley was more than just a dream.”
Sunday 28 August 2016
THE GULLS HAVE GOALS IN THEM
Yesterday's 2-1 victory over Dover Athletic was the first time that Torquay United have twice or more in a game this season, but the signs are that there is more to come from the Gulls.
Jamie Reid and Dan Sparkes both opened their respective accounts for United, in a game that they could have won by a larger margin than their single goal score line.
Whilst former Northern Ireland Under-21 international Reid, who is currently on loan with the Gulls from Exeter City, hasn't been able to establish himself as a first team regular in Paul Tisdale's side but did manage to score three times in five appearances during a loan spell with Truro City in National League South.
Sparkes will always be remembered for the hat-trick that he scored against United for Braintree in the Iron's 5-1 demolition of the Gulls at Plainmoor in the 2014-15 season. He scored a further seven goals for Braintree during that campaign, as well as another six last season as he helped the Iron to reach the National League Play-offs where they were beaten by Grimsby Town.
Although last season's leading scorer Nathan Blissett hasn't been able to get off the mark yet so far this season, the eight goals in 17 appearances - an average of just under a goal every other game - suggests he has goals in him.
Fellow striker Brett Williams also has plenty of goal scoring pedigree at National League level, having netted 24 times for Aldershot Town during the 2013-14 campaign.
Luke Young netted six goals in his first season at Plainmoor and also found the back of the net four times in his final campaign with Plymouth Argyle, prior to his move to United.
So if the Gulls can get their shooting boots on, the goals will flow and they could start to fly up the National League table.
Jamie Reid and Dan Sparkes both opened their respective accounts for United, in a game that they could have won by a larger margin than their single goal score line.
Whilst former Northern Ireland Under-21 international Reid, who is currently on loan with the Gulls from Exeter City, hasn't been able to establish himself as a first team regular in Paul Tisdale's side but did manage to score three times in five appearances during a loan spell with Truro City in National League South.
Sparkes will always be remembered for the hat-trick that he scored against United for Braintree in the Iron's 5-1 demolition of the Gulls at Plainmoor in the 2014-15 season. He scored a further seven goals for Braintree during that campaign, as well as another six last season as he helped the Iron to reach the National League Play-offs where they were beaten by Grimsby Town.
Although last season's leading scorer Nathan Blissett hasn't been able to get off the mark yet so far this season, the eight goals in 17 appearances - an average of just under a goal every other game - suggests he has goals in him.
Fellow striker Brett Williams also has plenty of goal scoring pedigree at National League level, having netted 24 times for Aldershot Town during the 2013-14 campaign.
Luke Young netted six goals in his first season at Plainmoor and also found the back of the net four times in his final campaign with Plymouth Argyle, prior to his move to United.
So if the Gulls can get their shooting boots on, the goals will flow and they could start to fly up the National League table.
Tuesday 23 August 2016
GRECIANS IN THE EYES OF THE TIGERS
The last time Exeter City played Hull City was on January 11th, 2003 and the two clubs would soon find themselves travelling in opposite different directions in the footballing pyramid.
Exeter were relegated from the Football League on the final day of the campaign, whilst the Tigers - then managed by one-time Grecian Peter Taylor - would win back-to-back promotions in the following seasons as they embarked on a journey that would eventually take them all the way to the Premier League.
Now, in 2016, the Grecians face Hull tonight in the Capital One Cup - in what will be their third meeting with top-flight opposition in the space of 12 months after facing Sunderland in the same competition last season and after taking Liverpool to a replay in the FA Cup in January.
The Tigers have faced a summer of uncertainty over their ownership issues which saw Steve Bruce resign as manager, but Bruce's assistant Mike Phelan has stepped into the breach and has overseen two winning displays in the opening games of the Premier League season - against reigning champions Leicester City and Swansea City.
Meanwhile Paul Tisdale now embarking on his tenth campaign in charge at St James Park and will be looking to add a cup upset to his list of achievements as Grecians manager - something that he wasn't far away from achieving last January against Liverpool.
Exeter were relegated from the Football League on the final day of the campaign, whilst the Tigers - then managed by one-time Grecian Peter Taylor - would win back-to-back promotions in the following seasons as they embarked on a journey that would eventually take them all the way to the Premier League.
Now, in 2016, the Grecians face Hull tonight in the Capital One Cup - in what will be their third meeting with top-flight opposition in the space of 12 months after facing Sunderland in the same competition last season and after taking Liverpool to a replay in the FA Cup in January.
The Tigers have faced a summer of uncertainty over their ownership issues which saw Steve Bruce resign as manager, but Bruce's assistant Mike Phelan has stepped into the breach and has overseen two winning displays in the opening games of the Premier League season - against reigning champions Leicester City and Swansea City.
Meanwhile Paul Tisdale now embarking on his tenth campaign in charge at St James Park and will be looking to add a cup upset to his list of achievements as Grecians manager - something that he wasn't far away from achieving last January against Liverpool.
Sunday 21 August 2016
RED DEVIL TO A GULL
Sean McGinty's arrival at Plainmoor this summer from Aldershot Town saw him join a select group of connections between Torquay United and Manchester United.
And McGinty finds himself in good company, as he joins a group that includes Les Lievesley (who would find greater fame as the coach of the Torino team who perished at Superga in 1949), Tommy Spratt - Torquay's leading scorer in the 1965-66 campaign, Frank O'Farrell - the only man to manage both teams and Lee Sharpe.
Former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international McGinty's links with the Red Devils of Manchester began when Sir Alex Ferguson paid £1million to bring him to Old Trafford in 2009 from Charlton Athletic.
Whilst with the Red Devils he helped them to win the FA Youth Cup in the 2010-11 season against Sheffield United, as part of a team that included Jesse Lingard and recent world transfer record signing Paul Pogba, before signing his first professional contract.
McGinty made his league debut for Morecambe during a four-match loan stint, which was later cut short due to a dislocated shoulder, and all seemed to be going well.
However, he later became the last player to be released by Sir Alex Ferguson after he was sent back to Old Trafford from Tranmere Rovers after failing to turn up to training.
Permanent spells with Sheffield United, Rochdale and Aldershot Town followed before he arrived at Plainmoor during the close season.
All the players who have appeared for the United's of both Manchester and Torquay have served the Gulls with some distinction, having all left their mark on Plainmoor and, if he can get his career back on the right track, then there is no reason - given time - why McGinty cannot do the same.
And McGinty finds himself in good company, as he joins a group that includes Les Lievesley (who would find greater fame as the coach of the Torino team who perished at Superga in 1949), Tommy Spratt - Torquay's leading scorer in the 1965-66 campaign, Frank O'Farrell - the only man to manage both teams and Lee Sharpe.
Former Republic of Ireland Under-21 international McGinty's links with the Red Devils of Manchester began when Sir Alex Ferguson paid £1million to bring him to Old Trafford in 2009 from Charlton Athletic.
Whilst with the Red Devils he helped them to win the FA Youth Cup in the 2010-11 season against Sheffield United, as part of a team that included Jesse Lingard and recent world transfer record signing Paul Pogba, before signing his first professional contract.
McGinty made his league debut for Morecambe during a four-match loan stint, which was later cut short due to a dislocated shoulder, and all seemed to be going well.
However, he later became the last player to be released by Sir Alex Ferguson after he was sent back to Old Trafford from Tranmere Rovers after failing to turn up to training.
Permanent spells with Sheffield United, Rochdale and Aldershot Town followed before he arrived at Plainmoor during the close season.
All the players who have appeared for the United's of both Manchester and Torquay have served the Gulls with some distinction, having all left their mark on Plainmoor and, if he can get his career back on the right track, then there is no reason - given time - why McGinty cannot do the same.
Sunday 14 August 2016
GLOVERS LOOKING TO MAKE LIFE STICKY FOR THE TOFFEES
As a reward for their EFL Cup victory over Walsall, Yeovil Town will be travelling to Merseyside to face Premier League giants Everton - a club that the Glovers have had strong connections with in recent years.
This relationship was largely built through Yeovil manager Darren Way's friendship with former Toffees' boss Roberto Martinez, which have enabled to bring a number loan signings to Huish Park from Goodison Park.
Perhaps the most notable of these players is Irish central defender Shane Duffy - now of Blackburn Rovers - who made 37 appearances for the Glovers during the course of two loan spells in their Championship campaign of 2013-14.
Duffy went on to make his debut for Eire against Costa Rica in the summer of 2014 and was part of Martin O'Neill's squad for their Euro 2016 campaign in France - appearing against Italy in their final group and the host nation in the last 16, when he was dismissed for a foul on Antoine Greizmann.
Also on loan at Yeovil from Everton during the 2013-14 season was midfielder John Lundstram, who made 14 appearances for the Glovers, scoring two goals. Lundstram is currently with Oxford United in League One.
Way also used his connections with the Toffees last season to help keep the Glovers in the Football League when he signed young midfielder Liam Walsh on loan.
Walsh helped to add a touch of class to the Glovers' midfield, and whilst he may not feature against Yeovil at Goodison a number of his contemporaries such as Ryan Ledson and Jonjoe Kenny - who enjoyed loan spells in League Two with Cambridge United and Oxford United respectively last season - as well as highly rated midfield pair Tom Davies and Kieran Dowell could.
It promises to be an intriguing contest, as the Glovers look to make life sticky for the Toffees.
This relationship was largely built through Yeovil manager Darren Way's friendship with former Toffees' boss Roberto Martinez, which have enabled to bring a number loan signings to Huish Park from Goodison Park.
Perhaps the most notable of these players is Irish central defender Shane Duffy - now of Blackburn Rovers - who made 37 appearances for the Glovers during the course of two loan spells in their Championship campaign of 2013-14.
Duffy went on to make his debut for Eire against Costa Rica in the summer of 2014 and was part of Martin O'Neill's squad for their Euro 2016 campaign in France - appearing against Italy in their final group and the host nation in the last 16, when he was dismissed for a foul on Antoine Greizmann.
Also on loan at Yeovil from Everton during the 2013-14 season was midfielder John Lundstram, who made 14 appearances for the Glovers, scoring two goals. Lundstram is currently with Oxford United in League One.
Way also used his connections with the Toffees last season to help keep the Glovers in the Football League when he signed young midfielder Liam Walsh on loan.
Walsh helped to add a touch of class to the Glovers' midfield, and whilst he may not feature against Yeovil at Goodison a number of his contemporaries such as Ryan Ledson and Jonjoe Kenny - who enjoyed loan spells in League Two with Cambridge United and Oxford United respectively last season - as well as highly rated midfield pair Tom Davies and Kieran Dowell could.
It promises to be an intriguing contest, as the Glovers look to make life sticky for the Toffees.
Saturday 6 August 2016
SEASON PREVIEW 2016-17: PLYMOUTH ARGYLE
After losing to AFC Wimbledon in last season's Play-off final, Plymouth Argyle will be aiming to go a step further in the 2016-17 campaign and win promotion.
However, the Pilgrims will be going into the campaign with a much changed side to the one that lined-up under the Wembley archway for only the second time in the club's history last May.
As well as seeing many of their loan signings - including Jamille Matt, Hiram Boateng and Jordan Houghton - return to their parent clubs, the Pilgrims also lost many of their permanent fixtures - perhaps most notably long-serving captain Curtis Nelson.
Goalkeeper Luke McCormick has been named as Nelson's successor as captain.
In addition to Nelson, other players including Reuben Reid, Peter Hartley, Gregg Wylde and Carl McHugh also decided to move on, thus ensuring Derek Adams - who recently signed a contract to keep him at Home Park until 2020 - had a busy summer on the recruitment front, making 12 new signings.
It is also worth noting that when Argyle lined-up for their pre-season friendly with Torquay United, only McCormick, Gary Sawyer and Graham Carey remained from their Play-off final defeat.
Adams' new signings include a number of players who played under him during his time as Ross County manager, such as Yannick Songo'o, Gary Miller and Jordan Slew.
They also feature a mix of youth and experience, all of whom have a point to prove which could be an important factor in helping the Pilgrims go one better in the forthcoming campaign, as they look to end their stay in League Two which started in 2011.
In: Ryan Donaldson & Jimmy Spencer (Cambridge United), Connor Smith (AFC Wimbledon), Yannick Songo'o (Blackburn Rovers) David Goodwillie (Aberdeen), Oscar Threlkeld (Bolton Wanderers), Gary Miller (Partick Thistle), Jordan Slew (Chesterfield), David Ijaha (Whitehawk), Sonny Bradley (Crawley Town), Naurus Bulvitis (Spartaks Jurmala), Karleigh Osborne (Bristol City), David Fox (Crewe Alexandra), Marc McCallum (Livingston)
Out: Kelvin Mellor (Blackpool), Gregg Wylde (Millwall), Peter Hartley (Bristol Rovers), Curtis Nelson (Oxford United), Carl McHugh (Motherwell), Tyler Harvey (Wrexham), James Bittner (Newoort County), Deane Smalley, Callum Hall, Reuben Reid, Josh Simpson,
Player to Watch: David Goodwillie
As former Pilgrims' manager Dave Smith once said 'to win promotion, you need to score goals lots of em', and David Goodwillie is a player who has the pedigree to do just that.
Now 27, if Goodwillie can re-capture the form that saw Blackburn Rovers pay £2million for his services and earned him a Scotland call-up then Plymouth Argyle might just have the player who could become only the second 20 plus goals a season striker since the great Tommy Tynan - the departed Reuben Reid was the other.
However, the Pilgrims will be going into the campaign with a much changed side to the one that lined-up under the Wembley archway for only the second time in the club's history last May.
As well as seeing many of their loan signings - including Jamille Matt, Hiram Boateng and Jordan Houghton - return to their parent clubs, the Pilgrims also lost many of their permanent fixtures - perhaps most notably long-serving captain Curtis Nelson.
Goalkeeper Luke McCormick has been named as Nelson's successor as captain.
In addition to Nelson, other players including Reuben Reid, Peter Hartley, Gregg Wylde and Carl McHugh also decided to move on, thus ensuring Derek Adams - who recently signed a contract to keep him at Home Park until 2020 - had a busy summer on the recruitment front, making 12 new signings.
It is also worth noting that when Argyle lined-up for their pre-season friendly with Torquay United, only McCormick, Gary Sawyer and Graham Carey remained from their Play-off final defeat.
Adams' new signings include a number of players who played under him during his time as Ross County manager, such as Yannick Songo'o, Gary Miller and Jordan Slew.
They also feature a mix of youth and experience, all of whom have a point to prove which could be an important factor in helping the Pilgrims go one better in the forthcoming campaign, as they look to end their stay in League Two which started in 2011.
In: Ryan Donaldson & Jimmy Spencer (Cambridge United), Connor Smith (AFC Wimbledon), Yannick Songo'o (Blackburn Rovers) David Goodwillie (Aberdeen), Oscar Threlkeld (Bolton Wanderers), Gary Miller (Partick Thistle), Jordan Slew (Chesterfield), David Ijaha (Whitehawk), Sonny Bradley (Crawley Town), Naurus Bulvitis (Spartaks Jurmala), Karleigh Osborne (Bristol City), David Fox (Crewe Alexandra), Marc McCallum (Livingston)
Out: Kelvin Mellor (Blackpool), Gregg Wylde (Millwall), Peter Hartley (Bristol Rovers), Curtis Nelson (Oxford United), Carl McHugh (Motherwell), Tyler Harvey (Wrexham), James Bittner (Newoort County), Deane Smalley, Callum Hall, Reuben Reid, Josh Simpson,
Player to Watch: David Goodwillie
As former Pilgrims' manager Dave Smith once said 'to win promotion, you need to score goals lots of em', and David Goodwillie is a player who has the pedigree to do just that.
Now 27, if Goodwillie can re-capture the form that saw Blackburn Rovers pay £2million for his services and earned him a Scotland call-up then Plymouth Argyle might just have the player who could become only the second 20 plus goals a season striker since the great Tommy Tynan - the departed Reuben Reid was the other.
SEASON PREVIEW 2016-17: EXETER CITY
After ten years and over 500 games in charge, Paul Tisdale will be hoping to lead Exeter City to an improvement on last season's 14th placed finish.
Over the summer, Tisdale has overseen a number of large changes in personnel as Christian Ribiero, Alex Nicholls, Aaron Davies and David Noble were all released as the Grecians looked to freshen up his squad.
Amongst his new arrivals former Wales Under-21 international Lloyd James will add some extra steel into a midfield that already includes Ryan Harley and Matt Oakley, whilst Robbie Simpson and Liam McAlinden could potentially increase their firepower in attack.
David Wheeler and Lee Holmes will once again add plenty of width and Ollie Watkins (See Player to Watch) remains one of the lower league's hottest young properties.
Tisdale's commitment to youth development is also as strong as ever as Nick Grimes, brother of former Grecian and Swansea City midfielder Matt Grimes, was amongst a number of players who signed their first professional contracts with the club.
In: Robbie Simpson (Cambridge United), Lloyd James (Leyton Orient), Liam McAlinden (Wolves), Troy Archibald-Henville (Carlisle United), Pierce Sweeney (Reading)
Out: Christian Ribiero (Oxford United), Alex Nicholls (Barnet), Aaron Davies (Accrington Stanley), Clinton Morrison (Redditch United), Jamie Reid (Torquay United loan), David Noble, Will Hoskins
Player to Watch: Ollie Watkins
Amongst the number of highlights of the Grecians' 2015-16 campaign was Watkins' late brace against Plymouth Argyle, which secured City's second league double against their fierce local rivals in recent seasons. During the course of the close season, Watkins has been linked to a number of Championship sides, including Brentford and Derby County, and it remains to be seen if he is still at St James Park when the summer transfer window closes at the end of August.
Over the summer, Tisdale has overseen a number of large changes in personnel as Christian Ribiero, Alex Nicholls, Aaron Davies and David Noble were all released as the Grecians looked to freshen up his squad.
Amongst his new arrivals former Wales Under-21 international Lloyd James will add some extra steel into a midfield that already includes Ryan Harley and Matt Oakley, whilst Robbie Simpson and Liam McAlinden could potentially increase their firepower in attack.
David Wheeler and Lee Holmes will once again add plenty of width and Ollie Watkins (See Player to Watch) remains one of the lower league's hottest young properties.
Tisdale's commitment to youth development is also as strong as ever as Nick Grimes, brother of former Grecian and Swansea City midfielder Matt Grimes, was amongst a number of players who signed their first professional contracts with the club.
In: Robbie Simpson (Cambridge United), Lloyd James (Leyton Orient), Liam McAlinden (Wolves), Troy Archibald-Henville (Carlisle United), Pierce Sweeney (Reading)
Out: Christian Ribiero (Oxford United), Alex Nicholls (Barnet), Aaron Davies (Accrington Stanley), Clinton Morrison (Redditch United), Jamie Reid (Torquay United loan), David Noble, Will Hoskins
Player to Watch: Ollie Watkins
Amongst the number of highlights of the Grecians' 2015-16 campaign was Watkins' late brace against Plymouth Argyle, which secured City's second league double against their fierce local rivals in recent seasons. During the course of the close season, Watkins has been linked to a number of Championship sides, including Brentford and Derby County, and it remains to be seen if he is still at St James Park when the summer transfer window closes at the end of August.
Wednesday 3 August 2016
SEASON PREVIEW 2016-17: YEOVIL TOWN
Whilst much has been made on this blog of the great escape pulled off by Kevin Nicholson at Torquay United, but across the Somerset border Darren Way also masterminded another 'Houdini act' to keep Yeovil Town in League Two.
After back-to-back relegations from the Championship and League One - a third successive demotion, which would have seen the Glovers return to the Conference for the first time since 2003 - appeared to be on the cards when Way was appointed as successor to Paul Sturrock last December.
However, Way, who joined the coaching staff at Huish Park in 2009 following a car accident that ended his career, galvanised the club and after making key signings, such as French target man Francois Zoko and Liam Walsh on loan from Everton, the Glovers pulled away from the drop zone.
When he was appointed as Yeovil manager, the Glovers were bottom of the league and hadn't won in 12 matches, but by the time he was awarded a new-three year contract they were 14 points clear of the relegation zone.
Way will be looking to take that momentum into the 2016-17 campaign, which begins with the visit of Notts County, now managed by former Plymouth Argyle manager John Sheridan.
Other fixtures to keep an eye out for include the visits of Luton Town, where Way's former team-mate and backroom staff member Nathan Jones is now in charge, and Cheltenham Town managed, of course, by former Yeovil manager, and mastermind of all of the Glovers' promotions as a Football League club, Gary Johnson.
After only scoring league goals last season, a lot will rest on Francois Zoko and Tom Eaves' ability to strike up a prolific partnership, and hopefully new arrivals Ryan Hedges and Otis Khan will chip in with a few goals from midfield.
In: Liam Shepherd & Ryan Hedges (Swansea City, both loans), Tom Eaves (Bolton Wanderers), Alex Lawless (Luton Town), Otis Khan (Barnsley)
Out: Wes Fogden (Havant & Waterlooville), Jack Compton & Ben Tozer (Newport County), Mark Beck (Darlington 1883), Ryan Bird (Eastleigh), Shaun Jeffers (Chelmsford City), Jordan Gibbons (Retired), Jakub Sokolik (Southend United), Simon Gillett, Chris Weale, Leroy Lita, Marc Laird
Player to Watch: Nathan Smith
Whilst most footballers jet off abroad on their summer holidays, Yeovil Town defender Nathan Smith spent ten days mediating in India during his close season break. The former left-back who has now moved into the centre of defence will be hoping to display the same level of calmness and assurance on the pitch.
After back-to-back relegations from the Championship and League One - a third successive demotion, which would have seen the Glovers return to the Conference for the first time since 2003 - appeared to be on the cards when Way was appointed as successor to Paul Sturrock last December.
However, Way, who joined the coaching staff at Huish Park in 2009 following a car accident that ended his career, galvanised the club and after making key signings, such as French target man Francois Zoko and Liam Walsh on loan from Everton, the Glovers pulled away from the drop zone.
When he was appointed as Yeovil manager, the Glovers were bottom of the league and hadn't won in 12 matches, but by the time he was awarded a new-three year contract they were 14 points clear of the relegation zone.
Way will be looking to take that momentum into the 2016-17 campaign, which begins with the visit of Notts County, now managed by former Plymouth Argyle manager John Sheridan.
Other fixtures to keep an eye out for include the visits of Luton Town, where Way's former team-mate and backroom staff member Nathan Jones is now in charge, and Cheltenham Town managed, of course, by former Yeovil manager, and mastermind of all of the Glovers' promotions as a Football League club, Gary Johnson.
After only scoring league goals last season, a lot will rest on Francois Zoko and Tom Eaves' ability to strike up a prolific partnership, and hopefully new arrivals Ryan Hedges and Otis Khan will chip in with a few goals from midfield.
In: Liam Shepherd & Ryan Hedges (Swansea City, both loans), Tom Eaves (Bolton Wanderers), Alex Lawless (Luton Town), Otis Khan (Barnsley)
Out: Wes Fogden (Havant & Waterlooville), Jack Compton & Ben Tozer (Newport County), Mark Beck (Darlington 1883), Ryan Bird (Eastleigh), Shaun Jeffers (Chelmsford City), Jordan Gibbons (Retired), Jakub Sokolik (Southend United), Simon Gillett, Chris Weale, Leroy Lita, Marc Laird
Player to Watch: Nathan Smith
Whilst most footballers jet off abroad on their summer holidays, Yeovil Town defender Nathan Smith spent ten days mediating in India during his close season break. The former left-back who has now moved into the centre of defence will be hoping to display the same level of calmness and assurance on the pitch.
Tuesday 2 August 2016
BAGGIES' TOUR ENDS IN DEFEAT
Tony Pulis' West Bromwich Albion ended their pre-season tour of the South West without a victory, after they followed up their goalless draw with Plymouth Argyle by losing to Torquay United.
During their tour, the Baggies fielded the likes of James Chester, Jonny Evans, Gareth McAuley and James McClean who are featured for Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, as well as former England goalkeeper Ben Foster - who is also a one-time Tiverton Town loanee.
Making an appearance as a trialist for the Gulls was ex-Liverpool starlet and Paraguay international Ronald Huth, who starred in the centre of defence for United.
Although Albion had demonstrated their undoubted quality in the first half, the game was poised at 0-0 when referee Neil Bromley blew his whistle for half-time.
However, all of that changed on 51 minutes when trialist left-back Callum Hall - who entered the fray as a substitute at the interval - beat Foster from 25-yards to open the scoring.
Seven minutes later, the Gulls doubled their advantage when summer signing Brett Williams beat Baggies' defender Craig Dawson just inside the Albion half of the field and made a bursting run towards goal before firing past Foster from 15-yards.
Highly rated striker Saido Berahino nearly pulled one back for the Baggies in the 81st minute, but his effort was deflected behind for a corner by United defender Sean McGinty.
Moments later, Darren Fletcher - a Champions League winner with Manchester United in 2008 - picked out Albion substitute Matt Phillips who took a touch before beating the Gulls' Gibraltar international keeper Jamie Robba.
In the dying minutes of the game, Robba was called upon to deny Berahino and young full-back Kyle Wilson as United held firm for a morale boosting victory ahead of their opening league fixture with Macclesfield Town on Saturday in front a crowd of just over 3,000, a figure that would surely provide a timely boost to the club's finances.
During their tour, the Baggies fielded the likes of James Chester, Jonny Evans, Gareth McAuley and James McClean who are featured for Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, as well as former England goalkeeper Ben Foster - who is also a one-time Tiverton Town loanee.
Making an appearance as a trialist for the Gulls was ex-Liverpool starlet and Paraguay international Ronald Huth, who starred in the centre of defence for United.
Although Albion had demonstrated their undoubted quality in the first half, the game was poised at 0-0 when referee Neil Bromley blew his whistle for half-time.
However, all of that changed on 51 minutes when trialist left-back Callum Hall - who entered the fray as a substitute at the interval - beat Foster from 25-yards to open the scoring.
Seven minutes later, the Gulls doubled their advantage when summer signing Brett Williams beat Baggies' defender Craig Dawson just inside the Albion half of the field and made a bursting run towards goal before firing past Foster from 15-yards.
Highly rated striker Saido Berahino nearly pulled one back for the Baggies in the 81st minute, but his effort was deflected behind for a corner by United defender Sean McGinty.
Moments later, Darren Fletcher - a Champions League winner with Manchester United in 2008 - picked out Albion substitute Matt Phillips who took a touch before beating the Gulls' Gibraltar international keeper Jamie Robba.
In the dying minutes of the game, Robba was called upon to deny Berahino and young full-back Kyle Wilson as United held firm for a morale boosting victory ahead of their opening league fixture with Macclesfield Town on Saturday in front a crowd of just over 3,000, a figure that would surely provide a timely boost to the club's finances.
Sunday 31 July 2016
SEASON PREVIEW 2016-17: TORQUAY UNITED
Imagine this scenario – a team are bottom of their league at
Christmas time but go on an incredible run in the second half of the season to
stay up before carrying that momentum on into the following campaign to win
their league.
For Leicester City, that became reality as they lifted the
Premiership title in the 2015-16 season pulling off a near miraculous escape in
the campaign prior to that – and Kevin Nicholson will be hoping that Torquay
United can draw inspiration from the Foxes’ feats.
Certain parallels can be found with Leicester’s achievements
and United’s performances last season, the Gulls were bottom of the league on
Christmas Day before showing promotion winning form to clinch the title.
During his seven years as a player with the Gulls, Nicholson
served under both Paul Buckle and Martin Ling amongst others and, particularly
during the last three months of last season, he has demonstrated that he has
learned plenty from the two aforementioned individuals whilst playing under
them.
The Conference promotion winning side that Nicholson played
in under Buckle was very much a ‘Conference team made for the Conference’ full
of strong characters, perhaps typified by their Play-off final win over
Cambridge which included a goalkeeper with a broken jaw (Michael Poke), a
centre back with leukaemia (Chris Todd) and a centre forward with a fractured
cheekbone (Tim Sills).
Nicholson’s Gulls of 2016 possess a strong spine with
American goalkeeper Brendan Moore between the sticks, skipper Angus MacDonald has
proved to be an important lynchpin in the centre of defence is
leaving for Championship side Barnsley, however summer signing Sean McGinty – who has the distinction
of being the last Manchester United player to be released by Sir Alex Ferguson
– could yet fill that role, Luke Young has the potential to be hugely
influential dictating play from the centre of midfield and last season’s
leading scorer Nathan Blissett will be looking to lead the attack.
Much of Nicholson’s squad building has been overshadowed by
the ‘will they, won’t they’ takeover saga involving Swindon-based firm Gaming
International, which has now collapsed, but with the budget he has been given
he has – on the face of it – used it wisely.
Whilst there might be some uncertainty following the
takeover deal with GI falling through, it is also worth remembering that in the
past Torquay United have often been at their strongest when all the odds are
seemingly against them.
Nicholson has also made some other important acquisitions in
the returning Damon Lathrope and Lathaniel Rowe-Turner as well as Dan Sparkes,
who famously netted a hat-trick against United for
Last season injuries proved to be something of an Achilles
heel for the Gulls– with Young in particular experiencing a lengthy absence –
but if physio Gareth Law ends up spending much of the season twiddling his
thumbs, then it could be a sure sign that United have done very well indeed.
In: Aman Verma & Lathaniel Rowe-Turner (Kidderminster
Harriers), Dan Sparkes (Braintree Town), Brendan Moore (Fleetwood Town), Brett
Williams (Forest Green Rovers), Damon Lathrope & Sean McGinty (Aldershot
Town), Jamie Robba (Unattached), Jamie Reid (Exeter City loan), Chey Scrivens
(West Bromwich Albion loan)
Out: Angus MacDonald (Barnsley, undisclosed),Toby Ajala (Gateshead), Daniel Butler (Newport County),
Oneil Odofin (Corby Town), Iffy Allen (Aldershot Town), Shaun Harrad (Wrexham),
Grant Fisher (Buckland Athletic), Liam Prynn (St Austell), Exodus Geohaghon, Danny Racchi
Player to Watch: Sam Chaney
One of the products of the Gulls’ now defunct youth set-up,
Chaney was given his first taste of first team football by Nicholson, and even
earned a favourable comparison with former United midfield maestro Eunan
O’Kane, now of Bournemouth. In his first team outings towards the end of last
season, Chaney proved that those comparisons were more than just a passing
compliment and it will be interesting to observe his progress in the
forthcoming campaign.
Tuesday 26 July 2016
ROCK OF GIBRALTAR
In the midst of the uncertainty surrounding their proposed takeover, Torquay United have strengthened their squad with the signing of Gibraltar international goalkeeper Jamie Robba on a one-year deal.
Robba, 24, has won seven caps for Gibraltar and appeared in their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, which saw them drawn in the same group as Germany, Poland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland.
Aside from a spell in France with US Le Pontet, Robba has spent most of his career playing in Gibraltar will provide competition to United's first choice goalkeeper Brendan Moore.
Also this week, the Gulls also signed Jamie Reid on a three-month loan deal from Exeter City. Former Northern Ireland Under-21 international Reid, who was born in Torquay and grew up supporting the Gulls, also came to United on loan during the 2014-15 season but only made two appearances.
He joins a striking roster that includes Nathan Blissett and Brett Williams who he will be competing against for a place in manager Kevin Nicholson's starting eleven.
Robba, 24, has won seven caps for Gibraltar and appeared in their Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, which saw them drawn in the same group as Germany, Poland, Republic of Ireland and Scotland.
Aside from a spell in France with US Le Pontet, Robba has spent most of his career playing in Gibraltar will provide competition to United's first choice goalkeeper Brendan Moore.
Also this week, the Gulls also signed Jamie Reid on a three-month loan deal from Exeter City. Former Northern Ireland Under-21 international Reid, who was born in Torquay and grew up supporting the Gulls, also came to United on loan during the 2014-15 season but only made two appearances.
He joins a striking roster that includes Nathan Blissett and Brett Williams who he will be competing against for a place in manager Kevin Nicholson's starting eleven.
WILTSHIRE TYPIFIES LADY GLOVERS' CHARACTER
Yeovil Town Ladies banished the memory of their defeat to Everton moved back to the top of the FA Women's Super League Two with a four-goal win over Durham at Huish Park.
It was a victory that was described by two-goal striker Annie Heatherson as ' a real test of our character of us as a team and as a unit', but no one typified their character more than leading scorer Sarah Wiltshire who at the end of the game, in which she playing 65 minutes and scored the opening goal, announced that she was pregnant and wouldn't be appearing again in Green and White for the remainder of the campaign.
Wiltshire, 25, is the Lady Glovers' top scorer 12 goals - a tally which includes a hat-trick against Aston Villa Ladies - but will be missing the rest of the campaign, but will be cheering the team on from the sidelines in their quest for promotion.
Yeovil's 4-0 win over Durham brings down the curtain on Wiltshire's second spell with the Lady Glovers, she first joined the club in 2014 from Watford Ladies before moving onto Manchester City Women shortly afterwards following a number of impressive displays.
However, after failing to settle in the North West she returned the Lady Glovers' fold midway through the 2015 and she once again proved to be an influential figure for Jamie Sherwood's side.
Nevertheless, Sherwood announced after the game that her number 7 shirt, which she has worn with great distinction, will be waiting for her once she is ready to return.
And it is not beyond the realms of possibility that her third spell with Yeovil Town Ladies could start in FA Women's Super League One, a division that the Lady Glovers have strived to reach for the last couple of years.
It was a victory that was described by two-goal striker Annie Heatherson as ' a real test of our character of us as a team and as a unit', but no one typified their character more than leading scorer Sarah Wiltshire who at the end of the game, in which she playing 65 minutes and scored the opening goal, announced that she was pregnant and wouldn't be appearing again in Green and White for the remainder of the campaign.
Wiltshire, 25, is the Lady Glovers' top scorer 12 goals - a tally which includes a hat-trick against Aston Villa Ladies - but will be missing the rest of the campaign, but will be cheering the team on from the sidelines in their quest for promotion.
Yeovil's 4-0 win over Durham brings down the curtain on Wiltshire's second spell with the Lady Glovers, she first joined the club in 2014 from Watford Ladies before moving onto Manchester City Women shortly afterwards following a number of impressive displays.
However, after failing to settle in the North West she returned the Lady Glovers' fold midway through the 2015 and she once again proved to be an influential figure for Jamie Sherwood's side.
Nevertheless, Sherwood announced after the game that her number 7 shirt, which she has worn with great distinction, will be waiting for her once she is ready to return.
And it is not beyond the realms of possibility that her third spell with Yeovil Town Ladies could start in FA Women's Super League One, a division that the Lady Glovers have strived to reach for the last couple of years.
Wednesday 20 July 2016
ALL EYES ON PLAINMOOR
The takeover of Torquay United by Swindon-based firm Gaming International is in the balance and could collapse if the new owners are unable to purchase Plainmoor.
Plainmoor, the Gulls' home since 1921, is currently owned by Torbay Council and if they cannot agree to the sale by July 31, 2016 then the deal will be called off as revealed by United Chairman Dave Phillips.
However, if the council were to agree to this option there are several questions that they would require answers for, owing to the club's importance to the local area and also its economy.
Firstly, if a new stadium is built for the Gulls, who would own and manage the stadium?
Torbay council are the club's current landlords, but as with several of Gaming International interests in Speedway - most notably Poole Pirates - the stadium is leased from Poole Borough Council by GI and managed by them and Poole Pirates sub-lease the stadium from GI.
Would a similar agreement exist with a new stadium for the Gulls?
There is also the question of rent for the new stadium and any ancillary revenues associated with the development.
As mentioned previously on this site, Coventry City were forced to leave the Ricoh Arena in 2013 for over a year for an exile in Northampton over a rent dispute.
If such a situation did arise as a result of such a dispute as this, then it could deprive the Torbay and South Devon economy of revenue from visiting away fans staying in the Bay and surrounding areas on the weekends of matches.
Also if their plan is based around making Torquay United sustainable as a football, which has been previously stated, then surely some agreement should be in place that the club can make use of the ancillary revenues at the stadium, otherwise it would defeat the purpose of ensuring that the club can become self-sufficient.
And let's not forget that United's current ground Plainmoor which, following the construction of Bristow's Bench in 2012, rates amongst the best in the Vanarama National League and League Two and compares favourably to several in League One.
Any new stadium proposals would therefore be a tough act to follow, and if GI are unable to deliver on that front, then it will almost certainly defeat the purpose of their planned relocation.
Plainmoor, the Gulls' home since 1921, is currently owned by Torbay Council and if they cannot agree to the sale by July 31, 2016 then the deal will be called off as revealed by United Chairman Dave Phillips.
However, if the council were to agree to this option there are several questions that they would require answers for, owing to the club's importance to the local area and also its economy.
Firstly, if a new stadium is built for the Gulls, who would own and manage the stadium?
Torbay council are the club's current landlords, but as with several of Gaming International interests in Speedway - most notably Poole Pirates - the stadium is leased from Poole Borough Council by GI and managed by them and Poole Pirates sub-lease the stadium from GI.
Would a similar agreement exist with a new stadium for the Gulls?
There is also the question of rent for the new stadium and any ancillary revenues associated with the development.
As mentioned previously on this site, Coventry City were forced to leave the Ricoh Arena in 2013 for over a year for an exile in Northampton over a rent dispute.
If such a situation did arise as a result of such a dispute as this, then it could deprive the Torbay and South Devon economy of revenue from visiting away fans staying in the Bay and surrounding areas on the weekends of matches.
Also if their plan is based around making Torquay United sustainable as a football, which has been previously stated, then surely some agreement should be in place that the club can make use of the ancillary revenues at the stadium, otherwise it would defeat the purpose of ensuring that the club can become self-sufficient.
And let's not forget that United's current ground Plainmoor which, following the construction of Bristow's Bench in 2012, rates amongst the best in the Vanarama National League and League Two and compares favourably to several in League One.
Any new stadium proposals would therefore be a tough act to follow, and if GI are unable to deliver on that front, then it will almost certainly defeat the purpose of their planned relocation.
Monday 18 July 2016
GULLS IN TAKEOVER DELAY
Whilst Kevin Nicholson has set about building a competitive Torquay United squad ahead of the 2016-17 season, the takeover of the Gulls by Swindon-based firm Gaming International remains unresolved.
Chairman Dave Phillips had hoped to make a definitive announcement at last week's club AGM but was unable to do so, and expressed his frustration at not being able to.
One piece of information that did emerge from the meeting was that GI had loaned the club a five figure sum to United to cover their running costs during the close season.
It had been announced that a Memorandum of Understanding had been agreed between both parties on 30 March, 2016.
Gaming International currently operate Speedway and Greyhound stadiums in Swindon and Poole, and a new home for the Gulls is believed to be part of the plans once the deal has been finalised.
One possibility as to what could be holding up the process is any negotiations with Torbay Council over a potential move away from Plainmoor, with a site at Nightingale Park in Barton widely being seen as a future home for United.
However, as a former site of the town's former rubbish dump the land being earmarked for usage by the council for the Gulls would need to be decontaminated before any building work could commence.
And then there is the question of what would happen to Plainmoor and the Swimming Pool and Bowling Club, which both serve as amenities to the local community.
Nevertheless, if the council wished to build new houses on the site of Plainmoor they would need to seek the permission of the Cary Estate, who possess a convenant on the ground which states that it can only be used for recreational purposes. The Gulls required the blessing of the Estate when they wished to construct Bristow's Bench in 2011.
The ground has also been listed as an 'Asset of Community Value' by the club's Supporters Trust - TUST - meaning that if Plainmoor becomes available for sale a community group has six months to submit their own bid for the ground.
It is hoped that some new information will emerge at the end of the month, when the period of exclusivity ends and hopefully the fans might have a firm answer from all parties.
Whilst having a new ground has helped clubs such as Burton Albion, Morecambe and Shrewsbury Town progress in recent years, through ancillary funds raised from commercial activities, there is always the tale of Coventry City and Ricoh Arena to be observed with caution.
Since it was opened in 2005, the Ricoh Arena has played host to Coventry City, Olympic football during London 2012 and Wasps RFC amongst others.
For a brief time in 2013, the Sky Blues were forced to share Northampton's Sixfields Stadium for over a year due to a rent dispute with the stadium owners.
The Gulls faithful will be hoping for the former, rather than the latter, should the deal be completed.
Chairman Dave Phillips had hoped to make a definitive announcement at last week's club AGM but was unable to do so, and expressed his frustration at not being able to.
One piece of information that did emerge from the meeting was that GI had loaned the club a five figure sum to United to cover their running costs during the close season.
It had been announced that a Memorandum of Understanding had been agreed between both parties on 30 March, 2016.
Gaming International currently operate Speedway and Greyhound stadiums in Swindon and Poole, and a new home for the Gulls is believed to be part of the plans once the deal has been finalised.
One possibility as to what could be holding up the process is any negotiations with Torbay Council over a potential move away from Plainmoor, with a site at Nightingale Park in Barton widely being seen as a future home for United.
However, as a former site of the town's former rubbish dump the land being earmarked for usage by the council for the Gulls would need to be decontaminated before any building work could commence.
And then there is the question of what would happen to Plainmoor and the Swimming Pool and Bowling Club, which both serve as amenities to the local community.
Nevertheless, if the council wished to build new houses on the site of Plainmoor they would need to seek the permission of the Cary Estate, who possess a convenant on the ground which states that it can only be used for recreational purposes. The Gulls required the blessing of the Estate when they wished to construct Bristow's Bench in 2011.
The ground has also been listed as an 'Asset of Community Value' by the club's Supporters Trust - TUST - meaning that if Plainmoor becomes available for sale a community group has six months to submit their own bid for the ground.
It is hoped that some new information will emerge at the end of the month, when the period of exclusivity ends and hopefully the fans might have a firm answer from all parties.
Whilst having a new ground has helped clubs such as Burton Albion, Morecambe and Shrewsbury Town progress in recent years, through ancillary funds raised from commercial activities, there is always the tale of Coventry City and Ricoh Arena to be observed with caution.
Since it was opened in 2005, the Ricoh Arena has played host to Coventry City, Olympic football during London 2012 and Wasps RFC amongst others.
For a brief time in 2013, the Sky Blues were forced to share Northampton's Sixfields Stadium for over a year due to a rent dispute with the stadium owners.
The Gulls faithful will be hoping for the former, rather than the latter, should the deal be completed.
Sunday 17 July 2016
JOCK LOOKING TO ENSURE PROGRESSION FOR NOMADS
After the euphoria of Wales' Euro 2016 campaign, the attention switches back to club football as former Plymouth Argyle central defender Andy 'Jock' Morrison looks to guide Gap Connah's Quay Nomads into the third qualifying round of the Europa League.
The Nomads trail Serbian side Vojvodina 1-0 after the first leg in Novi Stad, and the second leg on Thursday, 21 July at Rhyl's Belle Vue promises to be a keenly fought contest.
Following the exits of Bala Town and Llandudno, the Nomads are now the only Welsh representatives remaining in their competition and an encounter with Belarussian side Dynamo Minsk or St Patricks Athletic awaits them in the third qualifying round should they progress.
Morrison started his career with the Pilgrims in 1987, after making his debut against Aston Villa, and remained at Home Park until 1993 when he joined Blackburn Rovers.
He combines his role with the Nomads with his work as a Fan Ambassador with Manchester City, the club where he finished his playing career in 2002.
The Nomads trail Serbian side Vojvodina 1-0 after the first leg in Novi Stad, and the second leg on Thursday, 21 July at Rhyl's Belle Vue promises to be a keenly fought contest.
Following the exits of Bala Town and Llandudno, the Nomads are now the only Welsh representatives remaining in their competition and an encounter with Belarussian side Dynamo Minsk or St Patricks Athletic awaits them in the third qualifying round should they progress.
Morrison started his career with the Pilgrims in 1987, after making his debut against Aston Villa, and remained at Home Park until 1993 when he joined Blackburn Rovers.
He combines his role with the Nomads with his work as a Fan Ambassador with Manchester City, the club where he finished his playing career in 2002.
GULLS PLAY OUT DRAW WITH PILGRIMS
Nine years ago to the day that they faced each other in Kevin Hill's
testimonial, Torquay United played out a draw with Devon neighbours Plymouth
Argyle as both sides continued with their preparations for the 2016-17
campaign.
For some fans, it was the opportunity to see their new summer signings - which was especially true in the case of the Pilgrims for whom Luke McCormick, Gary Sawyer and Graham Carey the only survivors from their Play-off final defeat to AFC Wimbledon.
On the other hand, the only new faces in the Torquay line-up was Dan Sparkes - signed from Braintree in the summer - and one-time Manchester United starlet Sean McGinty. Damon Lathrope, Lathaniel Rowe-Turner and Kaid Mohammed also marked their returns to Plainmoor (albeit the latter did so on trial).
Ten minutes later, Argyle’s David Goodwillie was denied by United keeper Brendan Moore.
The action then switched to the other end of the pitch, as Torquay’s former Pilgrims’ starlet Luke Young was denied by Luke McCormick.
In the 37th minute, Graham Carey linked up with Jimmy Spencer for Argyle but dragged his effort wide.
For some fans, it was the opportunity to see their new summer signings - which was especially true in the case of the Pilgrims for whom Luke McCormick, Gary Sawyer and Graham Carey the only survivors from their Play-off final defeat to AFC Wimbledon.
On the other hand, the only new faces in the Torquay line-up was Dan Sparkes - signed from Braintree in the summer - and one-time Manchester United starlet Sean McGinty. Damon Lathrope, Lathaniel Rowe-Turner and Kaid Mohammed also marked their returns to Plainmoor (albeit the latter did so on trial).
The Gulls started strongly as Blissett had a goal
bound effort blocked after three minutes.
Ten minutes later, Argyle’s David Goodwillie was denied by United keeper Brendan Moore.
The action then switched to the other end of the pitch, as Torquay’s former Pilgrims’ starlet Luke Young was denied by Luke McCormick.
In the 37th minute, Graham Carey linked up with Jimmy Spencer for Argyle but dragged his effort wide.
Two minutes before half-time, the Pilgrims edged
ahead when Goodwillie turned home a corner from Carey.
The Gulls equalised from the penalty spot through
Blissett in the 53rd minute after substitute Sam Chaney was upended by
McCormick.
Blissett was denied a double in the 64th
minute, as McCormick tipped his close range effort behind for a corner.
In the closing stages, Carey narrowly cleared the crossbar from distance and Argyle substitute Jordan Slew also forced a save from Torquay replacement keeper Cory Harvey as the
spoils were shared.
Tuesday 5 July 2016
LATEST DEPARTURES SIGNAL THE END OF AN ERA FOR ARGYLE
The departure of Plymouth Argyle skipper Curtis Nelson to Oxford United brought down the curtain on a seven-year association with the Pilgrims.
Nelson originally arrived at Home Park as a 16 year-old apprentice in 2009, after he was released by Stoke City, and made his debut for Argyle at the start of the 2010-11 season in a League Cup tie against Notts County under Peter Reid.
It proved to be the first of 211 appearances for the Pilgrims, as Nelson started to become increasingly involved in first team duties during what ultimately turned out to be a very difficult season for Argyle, as they were relegated to League Two after receiving a ten-point deduction for entering Administration.
However, Nelson made the most of the opportunities that came his way and displayed a level of maturity beyond his years, which stood him in good stead when he was eventually appointed as club captain by John Sheridan.
Owing to his long service, Nelson had been the only Pilgrims' player who was with the club at the time they entered Administration in 2011.
Also leaving Home Park are Kelvin Mellor, who has signed for Blackpool, Tyler Harvey, Reuben Reid and Carl McHugh.
Reid returned to Home Park for a second spell under John Sheridan and went on to become the first Pilgrims' striker to score 20 or more goals in a season since Tommy Tynan, a feat that he managed in the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons.
Irish midfielder Carl McHugh, who converted into a more central role by current Argyle manager Derek Adams, had looked set to remain with the Pilgrims for the forthcoming season, after initially agreeing to stay, but has instead opted to join Scottish Premier League side Motherwell.
One thing is for sure that he will be a very different Argyle side that takes to the field against Luton Town on the opening day of the 2016-16 season to the one that featured in the League Two Play-off final against AFC Wimbledon.
Nelson originally arrived at Home Park as a 16 year-old apprentice in 2009, after he was released by Stoke City, and made his debut for Argyle at the start of the 2010-11 season in a League Cup tie against Notts County under Peter Reid.
It proved to be the first of 211 appearances for the Pilgrims, as Nelson started to become increasingly involved in first team duties during what ultimately turned out to be a very difficult season for Argyle, as they were relegated to League Two after receiving a ten-point deduction for entering Administration.
However, Nelson made the most of the opportunities that came his way and displayed a level of maturity beyond his years, which stood him in good stead when he was eventually appointed as club captain by John Sheridan.
Owing to his long service, Nelson had been the only Pilgrims' player who was with the club at the time they entered Administration in 2011.
Also leaving Home Park are Kelvin Mellor, who has signed for Blackpool, Tyler Harvey, Reuben Reid and Carl McHugh.
Reid returned to Home Park for a second spell under John Sheridan and went on to become the first Pilgrims' striker to score 20 or more goals in a season since Tommy Tynan, a feat that he managed in the 2013-14 and 2014-15 seasons.
Irish midfielder Carl McHugh, who converted into a more central role by current Argyle manager Derek Adams, had looked set to remain with the Pilgrims for the forthcoming season, after initially agreeing to stay, but has instead opted to join Scottish Premier League side Motherwell.
One thing is for sure that he will be a very different Argyle side that takes to the field against Luton Town on the opening day of the 2016-16 season to the one that featured in the League Two Play-off final against AFC Wimbledon.
Sunday 26 June 2016
WARD'S EURO 2016 ADVENTURE COMES TO AN END
Jamie Ward maintained his record of appearing in all four of Northern Ireland's Euro 2016 encounters, as they bowed out of the competition to Wales at the Last 16 stage.
Former Torquay United starlet Ward, who currently plays for Nottingham Forest in the Championship, tested Wales keeper Wayne Hennessey, a former Yeovil Town loanee, in the 22nd minute before he was substituted in the 69th minute in a match that was decided by an own goal from Northern Ireland's Gareth McAuley on 76 minutes.
It was the first time that Northern Ireland had progressed beyond the opening stage of a tournament finals since the 1982 World Cup in Spain, and there will be high hopes that they could qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia in two years time - a tournament that Ward, who will be 32 by then, could also feature in.
Former Torquay United starlet Ward, who currently plays for Nottingham Forest in the Championship, tested Wales keeper Wayne Hennessey, a former Yeovil Town loanee, in the 22nd minute before he was substituted in the 69th minute in a match that was decided by an own goal from Northern Ireland's Gareth McAuley on 76 minutes.
It was the first time that Northern Ireland had progressed beyond the opening stage of a tournament finals since the 1982 World Cup in Spain, and there will be high hopes that they could qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia in two years time - a tournament that Ward, who will be 32 by then, could also feature in.
SUMMER TRANSFER ROUND-UP # 2
Plymouth Argyle manager Derek Adams has added another three new faces to his Plymouth Argyle squad, but has also seen another of his key performers from the 2015-16 campaign depart Home Park.
Right back Gary Miller has signed from Scottish side Partick Thistle, centre back Karleigh Osborne has joined from Bristol City - having spent much of last season on loan at AFC Wimbledon - and striker Jordan Slew arrives from Chesterfield.
Both Miller and Slew both played under Adams at Ross County and join Graham Carey and Yves Songo'o as part of Argyle's ex-Staggies contingent.
Meanwhile, winger Gregg Wylde will be leaving the Pilgrims after agreeing a deal with League One side Millwall.
In the National League, Lathaniel Rowe-Turner has returned to Torquay United as a replacement for the recently departed Dan Butler, who turned down a new deal to stay with the Gulls. Rowe-Turner originally played for Torquay between 2010 and 2012, when he joined from Leicester City, when he was the understudy to Gulls' manager Kevin Nicholson, but now he has the opportunity to make the left-back spot his own.
Right back Gary Miller has signed from Scottish side Partick Thistle, centre back Karleigh Osborne has joined from Bristol City - having spent much of last season on loan at AFC Wimbledon - and striker Jordan Slew arrives from Chesterfield.
Both Miller and Slew both played under Adams at Ross County and join Graham Carey and Yves Songo'o as part of Argyle's ex-Staggies contingent.
Meanwhile, winger Gregg Wylde will be leaving the Pilgrims after agreeing a deal with League One side Millwall.
In the National League, Lathaniel Rowe-Turner has returned to Torquay United as a replacement for the recently departed Dan Butler, who turned down a new deal to stay with the Gulls. Rowe-Turner originally played for Torquay between 2010 and 2012, when he joined from Leicester City, when he was the understudy to Gulls' manager Kevin Nicholson, but now he has the opportunity to make the left-back spot his own.
Tuesday 21 June 2016
WARD WAITING ON NORTHERN IRELAND'S EURO OUTCOME
Former Torquay United striker Jamie Ward will be waiting to see whether Northern Ireland have done enough to book a place in the last 16 of Euro 2016 as one of the tournament's best third placed sides.
Ward, 30, who currently plays in the Championship for Nottingham Forest, has appeared for Michael O'Neill's side in all three of their group games in the competition. He came on as a substitute in their opening Group C encounter with Poland and started their next two matches against Ukraine and Germany.
He is the first former Gulls player to appear at the major tournament since Paul Hall appeared for Jamaica in the 1998 World Cup and the first to feature in a European Championship since Keith Curle featured in England's opening match of Euro 92 in Sweden.
Northern Ireland could be set to face Group B winners Wales in the last 16 if they emerge as the best performing third placed team from Groups A, C and D, which will be decided after tonight's final Group D fixtures that see Spain face Croatia and Czech Republic take on Turkey.
At the time of writing, the Irish have the same number of points as Albania (three) who finished third in Group A, but they possess a superior goal difference of zero to the Albanian's minus two. ,
Therefore the Czechs would need to beat Turkey to claim their place in the last 16 at the expense of Northern Ireland, as a win will see them finish the group stage with four points.
Ward, 30, who currently plays in the Championship for Nottingham Forest, has appeared for Michael O'Neill's side in all three of their group games in the competition. He came on as a substitute in their opening Group C encounter with Poland and started their next two matches against Ukraine and Germany.
He is the first former Gulls player to appear at the major tournament since Paul Hall appeared for Jamaica in the 1998 World Cup and the first to feature in a European Championship since Keith Curle featured in England's opening match of Euro 92 in Sweden.
Northern Ireland could be set to face Group B winners Wales in the last 16 if they emerge as the best performing third placed team from Groups A, C and D, which will be decided after tonight's final Group D fixtures that see Spain face Croatia and Czech Republic take on Turkey.
At the time of writing, the Irish have the same number of points as Albania (three) who finished third in Group A, but they possess a superior goal difference of zero to the Albanian's minus two. ,
Therefore the Czechs would need to beat Turkey to claim their place in the last 16 at the expense of Northern Ireland, as a win will see them finish the group stage with four points.
EAMONN DOLAN 1967-2016
Former Exeter City player and manager Eamonn Dolan has died, following a battle with cancer.
Born in Galway, but raised in London, Dolan, 48, who was working as academy manager at Championship side Reading, first joined the Grecians as a player in 1991 from Birmingham City - a move that would mark the beginning of a 13-year association with the Grecians.
However, his playing career at St James Park would unfortunately be limited to only 26 league appearances, during which time he scored four goals, as a cancer diagnosis in 1993 forced him into retiring from the game prematurely.
Nevertheless, far from being the end of his involvement with the game his involvement with Exeter continued as he served the club in a variety of different roles.
He worked as the club's community manager, youth coach, caretaker manager before eventually becoming manager in 2003.
At this point the Grecians had been just been relegated from the Football League, and as well as struggling on the pitch Exeter were also finding life difficult off it too.
The disastrous ownership of John Russell and Mike Lewis - illusionist Uri Geller also served as a director during this period - had left the club on the brink of financial ruin as the club's Supporter's Trust stepped into takeover the day-to-day running of the Grecians.
Dolan steered the club through what was very choppy waters, as they finished in a respectable 6th position in their first season in the Conference.
He also gave first team opportunities to a number of young players, including Dean Moxey, which played a part in helping to lay the foundations of the success enjoyed by future Grecians' managers such as Alex Inglethorpe and Paul Tisdale.
In September 2004, Dolan brought the curtain down on his 13-year connection with Exeter as he joined Reading as their academy manager, a role that he held until his recent untimely death.
He made a brief return to management in 2013, as he became caretaker manager of the Royals between the managerial reigns of Brian McDermott and Nigel Adkins.
Sadly his second battle with cancer would claim his life, and it was a life which had seen him work tirelessly for both clubs he served as a coach with such great distinction.
Born in Galway, but raised in London, Dolan, 48, who was working as academy manager at Championship side Reading, first joined the Grecians as a player in 1991 from Birmingham City - a move that would mark the beginning of a 13-year association with the Grecians.
However, his playing career at St James Park would unfortunately be limited to only 26 league appearances, during which time he scored four goals, as a cancer diagnosis in 1993 forced him into retiring from the game prematurely.
Nevertheless, far from being the end of his involvement with the game his involvement with Exeter continued as he served the club in a variety of different roles.
He worked as the club's community manager, youth coach, caretaker manager before eventually becoming manager in 2003.
At this point the Grecians had been just been relegated from the Football League, and as well as struggling on the pitch Exeter were also finding life difficult off it too.
The disastrous ownership of John Russell and Mike Lewis - illusionist Uri Geller also served as a director during this period - had left the club on the brink of financial ruin as the club's Supporter's Trust stepped into takeover the day-to-day running of the Grecians.
Dolan steered the club through what was very choppy waters, as they finished in a respectable 6th position in their first season in the Conference.
He also gave first team opportunities to a number of young players, including Dean Moxey, which played a part in helping to lay the foundations of the success enjoyed by future Grecians' managers such as Alex Inglethorpe and Paul Tisdale.
In September 2004, Dolan brought the curtain down on his 13-year connection with Exeter as he joined Reading as their academy manager, a role that he held until his recent untimely death.
He made a brief return to management in 2013, as he became caretaker manager of the Royals between the managerial reigns of Brian McDermott and Nigel Adkins.
Sadly his second battle with cancer would claim his life, and it was a life which had seen him work tirelessly for both clubs he served as a coach with such great distinction.
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