TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS WESTON SUPER MARE

 1. Gulls return to winning ways. 

In front of their biggest crowd of the 2025-26 campaign, Torquay United shrugged off the disappointment of two straight defeats to defeat fellow promotion chasers Weston Super Mare 3-1 at Plainmoor. 

The result lifts United above the Seagulls and they currently trail leaders Hornchurch by four points. 

2. Matt Jay ends goalscoring drought. 

After netting twice in August (against AFC Totton and Dover Athletic), Matt Jay hadn't found the back since scoring the winner in United's 3-2 win over Dover on August Bank Holiday Monday. 

However, he ended his barren run with the Gulls' second goal as he connected with Sam Dreyer's flick-on from Callum Dolan's corner, and he found the back of the net with an instinctive finish. 

3. Jordan Thomas. 

Jordan Thomas produced arguably his best performance in a Torquay United shirt on Boxing Day. He played an important role in setting up United's first goal for Louis Dennis, who latched on to his quickly taken free-kick in the sixth minute. 

He also played a key role in Dennis' second on 79 minutes and was defensively strong throughout. 

4. Leading scorer race hots up. 

By netting a brace for the Gulls against the Seagulls, Louis Dennis has now taken his tally for the season to 13, which puts up one ahead of Jordan Young on 12 - and takes their collective total to 25, 

Over the years, United have had a number of goalscoring duos who have netted 30 or more in a single campaign. Paul Dobson and Dave Caldwell in 1987-88 (23 and 7); Dean Edwards and Tommy Tynan in 1990-91 (19 and 19); Martin Gritton and David Graham in 2002-03 (16 and 15); David Graham and Jo Kuffour in 2003-04 (23 and 11); Tim Sills and Lee Phillips in 2007-08 (22 and 16); Tim Sills and Elliot Benyon in 2008-09 (20 and 11) and Jamie Reid and Saikou Janneh in 2018-19 (32 and 19). 

5. Crowd watch. 

As well as being the Gulls' highest crowd of the 2025-26 campaign so far, it was also the biggest attendance in National Leagues North and South. In the National League, only the 7,935 who witnessed York City host Boston United bettered it, and it was also higher than four crowds in League Two (Accrington Stanley versus Barrow, Crawley Town versus Colchester United, Newport County vs Barnet and Salford City versus Harrogate Town) and one in League One (Burton Albion vs Northampton Town). 

GARY JOHNSON RETURNS TO MANAGEMENT WITH TAUNTON TOWN

 Former Yeovil Town and Torquay United manager Gary Johnson has made a somewhat surprise return to management with Southern League Premier Division South side Taunton Town. 

Johnson, 70, had most recently been working as director of football at Cheltenham Town until September 2025. Prior to that he had been in charge at Plainmoor between 2018 and 2025, during which time he led the Gulls to the National League South title in the 2018-19 season, and he led them to the National League Play-off final in 2020-21. He left the club shortly after then chairman Clarke Osborne announced his intention to place the club in Administration in February 2024. 

His spells at Huish Park between 2001 and 2005 and 2011 and 2015 saw him win promotion three times (Nationwide Conference champions 2002-03, League Two champions 2004-05 and League One play-off winners 2012-13). Johnson also won further promotions with Bristol City (League One runners-up 2006-07) and Cheltenham Town (National League champions 2015-16). 

Should he lead the Peacocks back to National League South, it would represent a seventh career promotion. 

THE MAKING OF AFTER THE JAWS OF VICTORY

 After the initial success of my first Torquay United book, Torquay United: A History in 50 Matches, my thoughts soon turned to ideas for my next project.  

Having been aware of Simon Hughes’ series of books interviewing Liverpool players from different eras: Red Machine, Men in White Suits and Ring of Fire covering the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s respectively, Andy Mitten’s ‘We’re the famous Man United’ series of books and Simon Hart’s Here We Go, which looks at Everton in the 1980s, the idea of writing a book of player’s stories appealed to me.

All of these books were written by fans turned journalists of the clubs in question and were written with the fans of said clubs in mind, but could also be enjoyed by football fans who didn’t support these particular clubs. This was something that I also found appealing.

No one to my mind had ever written a similar book about a lower league club, and Torquay United are a club with a rich history. The Bryn the Police Dog inspired ‘great escape’ of the 1986-87 season is well documented – as evidenced by the Netflix documentary Losers: The Jaws of Victory.

However, what is often overlooked is that it preceded one of the greatest spells in the club’s history that followed it. In the 1987-88 campaign, under the late Cyril Knowles, United missed out on promotion; defeated Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of the Littlewoods League Cup second round; unearthed a real gem in Lee Sharpe, who they sold to Manchester United for £185,000, and lost out to Swansea City in a two-legged Fourth Division play-off final.

This was then followed by their Sherpa Van Trophy final appearance against Bolton Wanderers in the 1988-89 season, the Gulls’ first ever trip to Wembley, which they secured by beating Steve Bull’s Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Southern Area final over two legs.

The 1989-90 campaign saw Knowles leave the Gulls to be succeeded by the former Mansfield Town, Southend United, Plymouth Argyle and Dundee manager Dave Smith. Under Smith, the Gulls’ reached the fourth round of the FA Cup for the fifth time in the club’s history, after beating West Ham United in the third round at Plainmoor.

Smith laid the foundations for the Gulls’ promotion in the 1990-91 season through the play-offs with a 5-4 victory over Blackpool on penalties, after drawing 2-2 in normal time and extra time. The match saw United become the first side to win a play-off final at Wembley and goalkeeper Gareth Howells became the first keeper to save and score a penalty in a penalty shoot-out at Wembley, as he struck the Gulls’ fifth successful spot-kick.

This was then followed by several relegations, promotions, play-off campaigns and numerous ‘great escapes’ – which all added to the makings of a great story.

The next challenge was to draw up a list of potential candidates and in the end, I came with an interesting mix of characters for the final 12. They included the maverick (Dave Caldwell), the local boy made good (Chris Myers), the cult hero (Jim McNichol), the starlet who progressed to the top-flight (Darren Moore), the former player-manager who became a globe-trotting coach (Don O’Riordan), the stalwarts of South West football (John Uzzell and Kevin Hill), the thinker (Alex Russell), the University educated Guardian reader (Martin Gritton) and the inspirational leaders (Alex Watson and Chris Hargreaves) to name but a few.

A foreword by Derek ‘the Dude’ Dawkins, scorer of United’s winning goal against Tottenham Hotspur in 1987 – and winner of the BBC’s Football Focus Torquay United cult hero poll in 2005 – also helped to capture the flavour of the era.

Having started actively supporting the club in 1991, I had seen all but two of the 12 players featured in the book in action – those two being Jim McNichol and Dave Caldwell – so it was a real labour of love.

I had hoped to conduct a number of the interviews in person, however, in the main, due to Covid, the closest I came was speaking to Darren Moore from his office in Sheffield Wednesday’s training ground via Zoom.

The majority were done over the phone, including the interview Chris Hargreaves which I conducted whilst on my lunch break from my day job.

Social media proved to be an aid for communicating with Alex Russell and Don O’Riordan; Russell was in Cairns in the far north of Queensland in Australia, while O’Riordan was based in the West of Ireland. Russell sent his responses to me as voice memos on WhatsApp, in which he read out the questions before giving me the answers, thus providing me with an insight into his thought processes. O’Riordan also used WhatsApp.

As well as sharing their memories of their playing days at Plainmoor, they also treated me to some of the back stories to their careers which were particularly interesting. My particular favourite was Jim McNichol’s Scotland Under-21 exploits, which saw him appear alongside players like Gordon Strachan, John Wark and Steve Archibald who later featured in the Scottish senior side at World Cups. The side he played in was also managed by Andy Roxburgh, who led Scotland to Italia 90 and Euro 92.

Another interesting insight was the reason Don O’Riordan missed out on a Republic of Ireland call-up in what could be described as a ‘sliding doors’ moment for him (you’ll need to buy the book to find out what it is.)

Alex Watson also talked warmly about coming through as an apprentice with Liverpool during one of the greatest eras in their history, including making a Charity Shield appearance at Wembley. Kevin Hill and Martin Gritton both shed new light on their non-league days before becoming full time pros in their early 20s. John Uzzell’s tale of how he went from being a fan on the terraces to being a long serving professional with Plymouth Argyle before going on to become a well-respected senior pro at Plainmoor will surely interest readers of both a green and yellow persuasion.

From a Torquay United perspective, my favourite story was Alex Russell’s thoughts on both automatic promotion in 2003-04 under Leroy Rosenior at Southend United and the subsequent relegation from League One on the final day of the 2004-05 season against Colchester United.

The end result was not only a 171-page book, but also that I was able come away happy in the knowledge that all 12 interviewees were as keen to share their stories with me as I was to ask them about them.

After the Jaws of Victory is available from torquayunitedahistoryin50 — After The Jaws of Victory

 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS TONBRIDGE ANGELS

 1. United fail to recover after going two down. 

Against Worthing, Torquay United recovered from being two goals down to win 3-2. However, lightning didn't strike twice at Plainmoor as the Gulls lost 2-1 to Tonbridge Angels after falling two goals behind in the first half. 

Goals from Tom Leahy and Ricky Korboa in the first half for the Angels gave them a two-goal cushion, but, try as they might, United could only find what proved to be a mere consolation in injury time when Louis Dennis headed home a cross from Jordan Young

There might have been a hint of an offside with Leahy's opener, but manager Paul Wotton stated in his post-match interview that his side need to start games better.

2. A series of near misses. 

Throughout the game, Jordan Young, Sonny Blu Lo-Everton, Matt Jay and Sam Dreyer to name but a few all had chances for the Gulls, but they couldn't convert him. 

When Louis Dennis finally did make the breakthrough in the fourth minute of second half injury time, when he turned home Jordan Young's cross, it proved to be a mere consolation. 

On another day the Gulls could have won handsomely, or if they had got a goal back before half-time it could have been a different game. Unfortunately, they weren't able to and the outcome was a win for Tonbridge. 

3. Sonny Blu Lo-Everton's tireless display in midfield. 

One plus point of United's display against Tonbridge was performance of Sonny Blu Lo-Everton in the centre of midfield. 

He worked tirelessly throughout and always looked to get on the ball and was unlucky not to find the scoresheet himself. On 48 minutes, he had a shot punched away by Angels keeper Laurence Shala and then he was denied by Shala again in the 56th minute before the rebound 

4. Angels strong on the road. 

Whilst Tonbridge Angels have only won once at home, their away form ranks amongst the best in National League South. 

Saturday's victory for Alan Dunne's was their fifth on their travels in 2025-26, and their list of victims includes second placed Worthing and play-off hopefuls Maidstone United. 

The Gulls are due to visit the Angels' Longmead Stadium home on the final day of the campaign, and there could yet be something riding on it for United. 

5. Still in contention. 

Despite their defeat, the Gulls still remain in contention at the top of the National League South, with the gap between themselves and top spot remaining at three points. 

The top five in the division are currently separated by five points; fifth placed Horsham have 38 whilst Weston Super Mare in fourth, United in third and second placed Worthing all have 39 and trail leaders Hornchurch, who are on 42 points, by three. 

Boxing Day's clash with Weston Super Mare will have a lot riding on it, the Gulls are yet to face the Seagulls, who are managed by former Willand Rovers and Tiverton Town boss Scott Rogers. 

MANAGERIAL CHANGES IN THE SOUTH WEST

 After the becoming the fourth manager to take charge of Yeovil Town in the 2025-26 campaign, Billy Rowley made a winning start to his managerial reign in charge of the Glovers. 

Former Chelsea, Fulham and Millwall academy coach Rowley made his name as manager with Southern League Premier South side Walton and Hersham, who were top of the league when he was approached by Yeovil. 

He follows in the footsteps of Mark Cooper, Danny Webb (who returned to his role as assistant manager at Chesterfield after failing to settle at Huish Park) and former interim boss Richard Dryden. 

A Luke McCormick brace helped to seal a 2-1 victory over Boston United and Rowley's next task will be to unite the Glovers' fanbase and build towards a return to the Football League. 

Plymouth Argyle have also seen a return in the non-playing staff as former manager Derek Adams has returned to the club as director of football to work alongside manager Tom Cleverley and head of football operations David Fox. 

Adams managed the Pilgrims between 2015 and 2019, during which time he led them to the League Two Play-off final in 2015-16, promotion from League Two as runners-up in 2016-17 before leading them to a seventh place finish in League One in 2017-18. 

Since leaving Home Park in 2019,  Adams has had three spells in charge of Morecambe (2019-2021, 2022-2023 and 2024-2025); in his first spell with the Shrimps he guided them to promotion to League One in 2020-21, courtesy of a League Two Play-off victory over Newport County. 

He has also had a brief spell in charge of Bradford City and a third stint north of the border with Ross County. His experience of the lower leagues will no doubt prove to be invaluable to Argyle and Cleverley. 

GULLS MAINTAIN WINNING RUN IN FACE OF ADVERSITY

 With their squad weakened due to injuries and the well documented incident involving skipper Matt Worthington and Callum Dolan, Torquay United still managed to extend their winning run in National League South to five matches against Chelmsford City. 

Goals from debutant Kieran Wilson, who joined on loan from Exeter City, and a free-kick from leading scorer Jordan Young, which takes his tally for the season to 12, secured the win over the Clarets. It was a result that briefly lifted the Gulls to the summit of the division and made to appear more remarkable by the fact that Paul Wotton's men made the journey to Essex on the day. 

According to Google Maps, 242 miles separates Plainmoor and Chelmsford's Melbourne Stadium home, but the United team bus set off from Plainmoor at 6.30am on Saturday morning, with the players who stay in the Gulls' Lodge next to the ground being its first passengers. 

United fans of a certain age will probably remember two of the most important away days in the club's history. The first is Barnet away on the final day of 2000-2001, when the Gulls beat the Bees 3-2 with goals from Jason Rees, Kevin Hill and David Graham to stay in the Football League. The other is Southend United away on the last day in 2003-04, which saw United win 2-1 to secure automatic promotion for the first time in 38 years. 

Both of those results were achieved despite the team travelling on the day of the game, and whilst we live in a time where overnight stays are deemed a necessity rather than a luxury, United's result and performance against Chelmsford, at a time when their squad was down to the barebones, showed a certain level of resilience. 

It's also worth noting it was their third game in the space of seven days, following on from a 7-0 demolition of Eastbourne Borough and 3-2 win over high flying Worthing after being two goals down after the opening 17 minutes. 

In the immediate present, the next challenge for Wotton is to extend their winning league run to six  matches when Tonbridge Angels head to Plainmoor on Saturday in what will be the Gulls' last home game before Christmas. 

GULLS SHOW BOUNCEABILITY TO BEAT WORTHING

 Torquay United followed up their seven goal hammering of Eastbourne Borough by coming from behind to beat high flying Worthing at Plainmoor. 

Joel Colbran and Joe Cook had put Worthing 2-0 up after 17 minutes at Plainmoor, and many of the Gulls faithful would have begun to fear the worst. 

However, United soon rallied as Sonny Blu Lo-Everton, Dan Hayfield and Dylan Morgan all went close prior to Louis Dennis following up his hat-trick against Eastbourne to make it 2-1 after 25 minutes.

 United then equalised through leading scorer Jordan Young equalised six minutes later, when he latched onto a through ball from Sonny Blu Lo-Everton before cutting inside onto his left foot and fired past Worthing keeper Josh Jefferies. 

In the second half, the Gulls edged ahead on 55 minutes when Young's cross with his weaker right foot picked out Dennis, who took a touch before completing his brace - and his fifth in two games. 

As the game wore on, United showed another side of their game as goalkeeper James Hamon made an important double save deep in injury time, which was in double figures, as the Gulls made it four wins out of four in the league. The result also ended Worthing's nine game winning run. 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS EASTBOURNE BOROUGH

 1. The Gulls' biggest win in over seven years. 

At the end of a difficult week for Torquay United, which saw skipper Matt Worthington and Callum Dolan both suspended following an off-field incident, the Gulls responded by beating Eastbourne Borough 7-0. 

It was United's biggest win since they beat Lymington Town FC in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup in September 2018, in one of their early games under the reign of Gary Johnson. 

In addition to this, it was also the Gulls' biggest league victory since the 1956-57 season when they beat Swindon Town 7-0 at Plainmoor, in which the club's all-time leading scorer Sammy Collins netted a hat-trick. 

2. Louis Dennis' hat-trick. 

Louis Dennis added his name to the list of players to have netted hat-tricks for Torquay United, and became the first player to hit a treble for the Gulls since Cody Cooke on the final day of the 2024-25 campaign against Hemel Hempstead Town. 

It was perhaps quite fitting that on a day that United scored seven that Dennis opened the scoring in the seventh minute. He then completed his brace on the half hour mark with a solo effort. His hat-trick came in the 57th minute, which made it 5-0 to the Gulls after Jordan Young and Dylan Morgan had found the target. 

3. Jordan Young takes his tally for the season to ten. 

By netting a brace against Eastbourne, United's leading scorer Jordan Young took his tally for the season to ten goals. He netted his first in the 39th minute following good work on the right hand side from Matt Jay and Louis Dennis, to make it 3-0, and then completed his brace on 63 minutes when he latched onto a long ball from keeper James Hamon and lobbed Eastbourne keeper Ryan Sandford to make it seven. 

Not only is Young one goal away from equalling his tally for the 2024-25 season of 11, he has now also hit double figures in National League South in three successive seasons. 14 for Yeovil Town in 2023-24, 11 for the Gulls last season and now ten and counting in the current campaign. 

4. Dylan Morgan starting to shine. 

After missing much of the second half of the 2024-25 campaign through injury, Dylan Morgan was a stand out player for the Gulls in their pre-season fixtures. However, just as he was starting to replicate his pre-season form in the regular, he went off injured in United's 3-1 win over AFC Totton in August 2025, just after he scored United's opening goal. 

In the first minute of first half injury time, Morgan slotted home a low drive after being teed up by Jordan Young and then added United's fourth in the 58th minute. 

5. The crowd. 

The one, and possibly only, disappointment about the Gulls' result against Eastbourne was that the crowd dipped below the 3,000 mark. The total attendance was 2,952, which included 45 away fans. With two home games in the space of a week, some fans may have chosen between watching United face Eastbourne and Worthing on Tuesday night. 

To those who were absent, you missed a treat. 

6. Eastbourne to reimburse their fans. 

After the match, it was announced that the Eastbourne players will be reimbursing the cost of the match tickets for all visiting fans. 

TOMMY TYNAN AT 70

 One of the finest strikers ever to ply their trade in the South West, Tommy Tynan also ranks amongst the best centre forwards never to grace the top flight of English football. 

Liverpool-born Tynan started his career with his boyhood idols Liverpool, after winning a competition in the Liverpool Echo newspaper searching for the club's next star. Whilst at Anfield, he served under their legendary manager Bill Shankly, but never made a first team appearance for the Reds - but spent time on loan at Swansea City. 

A brief spell with Dallas Tornados in the North American Soccer League followed after he left Liverpool before Sheffield Wednesday was next port of call for Tynan in 1976, where he spent two years prior to a brief spell with Lincoln City in 1978.  

However, it was at Newport County where Tynan would really make his mark as he helped the Welsh side as he formed a formidable partnership with John Aldridge.  The duo helped them win promotion from the 'old' Fourth Division and the Welsh Cup in the 1979-80 season. 

Winning the Welsh Cup earned County entry to the European Cup Winner's Cup for the 1980-81 campaign, which saw Newport reach the quarter finals where they beaten 3-2 by East German side Carl Zeiss Jena on aggregate. Tynan netted both goals in the first leg staged beyond the Iron Curtain, but they lost the return leg at Newport's Somerton Park home 1-0. 

In 1983, Tynan headed to the South West when Bobby Moncur signed him for Plymouth Argyle; in his first season at Home Park, he played a key role in helping the Pilgrims reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup under Moncur's successor, Johnny Hore in the 1983-84 campaign. Tynan famously scored the winning goal in their fifth round win over West Bromwich Albion, which was Argyle's only win over top-flight opposition during the run. 

The goals continued to flow for Tynan in the 1984-85 season, in which he saw another change of manager after Hore was sacked and replaced by the charismatic Scotsman Dave Smith. 

Tynan was on the move again in the summer of 1985 for domestic reasons as he returned to South Yorkshire to sign for Rotherham United. Nevertheless, he would return to the Pilgrims on loan towards the end of the 1985-86 campaign, after falling out with Millers' boss Norman Hunter. 

His second spell at Home Park to be a glorious one, as he found the back of the net ten times in nine appearances as promotion to the 'old' Second Division was secured with a 4-0 win over Bristol City. Tynan then made the move permanent and played a starring role as the Pilgrims achieved their second highest post-war league finish of seventh in the 'old' Second Division in the 1986-87 season. 

Following his release by Argyle in 1990, Tynan linked up with Dave Smith again at Torquay United as player-coach, as he helped the Gulls complete a then club record run of 15 league matches as United topped the Fourth Division table. He finished the 1990-91 season as the Gulls' joint top scorer with 19 goals, which included his 300th career goal in a 3-0 home win over Carlisle United in October 1990. 

A brief spell with Doncaster Rovers and a stint as player-manager of Goole Town then followed for Tynan before he returned to Plymouth, where he ran a pub, worked for Plymouth Argyle as commercial manager and later became a taxi driver. 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS MAIDSTONE UNITED FA TROPHY

1. Dan Hayfield's free-kick. 

Last season against Truro City in the same stage of the competition, a free-kick from Dan Hayfield from the edge of the penalty area proved to be the difference for the Gulls at this stage of the competition. 

In the eighth minute against Maidstone, United won a free-kick on the edge of the area after Jordan Young had been fouled, which Hayfield stepped up to take and, on this occasion, he agonisingly struck the post. 

It's often said that goals change games and had Hayfield's effort found the net could history have repeated itself and the Gulls have progressed in the FA Trophy against a fellow National League South outfit – and one of their bogey sides to boot? 

Maybe, but we'll never know. 

2. Jordan Young excelled again. 

United winger Jordan Young was arguably the Gulls' brightest performer, and was also voted as man of the match by the sponsors. 

In the 13th minute, he cut in from the right and tested Maidstone keeper Lenny Holden with a shot before Sonny Fish (more on him later) was denied from the rebound. 

Throughout the game, he remained the Gulls' greatest attacking threat and in the second half, he picked out Jordan Dyer with a free-kick in the 73rd minute which Dyer nodded towards goal - only to be denied by Holden in the Maidstone goal. 

Then in the 90th minute, his through ball found Matt Jay who drew another save from Holden, as United huffed and puffed but couldn't find a way past the Maidstone back line. 

He also worked tirelessly throughout, and showed a willingness to track back and make a number of tackles, in what was arguably one of his best games for the club in terms of work rate alone. 

3. Sonny Fish's first start. 

After making a number of cameo appearances from the bench, Sonny Fish was handed his first start by United manager Paul Wotton. The former Crawley Town man started brightly and was unlucky not to score on 13 minutes when he latched onto a rebound from Jordan Young's initial effort. 

Fish continued to lead the line well, but still looked short for real match sharpness. He later switched to the left-hand side of United's attack after Ed Palmer replaced Dylan Morgan, who was deployed as a makeshift centre forward. 

He then exited the field of play on 64 minutes as Denzel Aykeampong entered the fray in his place. However, Fish did show signs that he can offer a viable alternative to Cody Cooke when fully up to speed. 

4. United down to the bare bones. 

Paul Wotton was only able to name four subs on Saturday against Maidstone, which included rookie goalkeeper Matt Wonnacott and Aiden Edwards, the 17-year-old son of assistant manager Mike Edwards. 

As well as being without long term injury victims Cody Cooke and Monashe Sundire, the Gulls were also without skipper Matt Worthington, Callum Dolan and Louis Dennis, and their absence was keenly felt by United. 

Wotton will be hoping that at least two, if not all three, of them will be available when United host Eastbourne Borough in National League South next Saturday. 

5. Free to focus on the league. 

Aside from their appearance in the final under Paul Buckle in 2007-08 and reaching the semi-finals under Chris Hargreaves in 2014-15, Torquay United's record in the FA Trophy is modest to say the least. 

Whilst making it through a couple of rounds would have been welcome, not to mention the prize money, further progress in the competition would also lead to a number of their fixtures needing to be re-arranged. 

Although any fixture congestion wouldn't be as bad as it was for Buckle's side of 2007-08, who at one stage were playing Saturday-Tuesday-Thursday-Saturday between Saturday 12th April 2008 and Saturday 19th April 2008, United would be potentially be facing a regular Saturday-Tuesday routine.

 

 

GULLS BACK ON TRACK WITH BACK TO BACK WINS ON THEIR TRAVELS

As the famous saying goes, you spent ages waiting for a bus and then two come along at once; this proved to be the case for Torquay United as they followed up their midweek success against Farnborough by coming away from Maidenhead United with three points. 

Inspired by a brace from Louis Dennis and Jordan Dyer's first goal of the campaign, the Gulls returned home from the Saunders Transport Community Stadium with a 3-1 victory on Wednesday night.

United then travelled to Maidenhead's York Road on Saturday, where they secured back-to-back away wins for the first time this season as they secured a 2-1 win. Callum Dolan gave the Gulls the lead with a second of the campaign on 40 minutes before Maidenhead defender Remy Clerima inadvertently turned a cross from Jordan Young into his own net. 

A late consolation from Liam Dulson in injury time set up a tense finish, but United held on to secure the third win in fourth visits to York Road with a performance that manager Paul Wotton hailed as being 'magnificent.' 

The win moves the Gulls up to third behind league leaders Hornchurch and second placed Weston Super Mare. 

Once their FA Trophy clash at home to Maidstone United next Saturday is out of the way, they will then have a home 'Saturday-Tuesday double header against Eastbourne Borough and Worthing. 

United's home record remains amongst the strongest in the league, they are one of four sides in National League South who have six times in front of their own fans in 2025-26, and if they can ally that with improved away showings, then they will soon lift themselves back into contention for the title. 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS HORNCHURCH

 1. Unbeaten home runneth over. 

United's unbeaten home record finally came to an end as Hornchurch became the first side to come away from Plainmoor with all three points. 

Whilst the disappointment of defeat is understandable, a chorus of boos greeted the final whistle, the likelihood of the Gulls going through the entire season unbeaten was always going to be extremely unlikely. 

The Urchins, managed by former Gulls loanee Daryl McMahon, also extended their own unbeaten for the campaign to 14 games, as they go five points clear of second placed Weston Super Mare.

 Nevertheless, given that so many teams topped the league last season, McMahon, who led Ebbsfleet United to promotion in 2016-17, won't be getting carried away. 

However, if United can bounce back with a win in either of their next two away games against Farnborough on Wednesday night and at Maidenhead United next Saturday, then their loss to the Urchins will soon disappear into the annals of time. 

2. Cody Cooke was a big miss. 

Despite having plenty of shots from distance, United lacked a real presence in the penalty area which Cody Cooke would have provided had he been fit. 

Not only could Cooke have got on the end of some of the numerous balls that United were putting into the box, he could have also helped bring other players into play and helped them get into positions of maximum opportunity. 

No date has yet been given for Cooke's return, but young striker Sonny Fish, who is continuing his return from injury, shows glimpses of his ability, so he could step into Cooke's shoes when he is fully up to speed. 

3. Sonny Fish. 

In his latest cameo, Sonny Fish displayed a few glimpses of the talent that Gulls boss Paul Wotton has been keeping tabs on over a number of years. 

Fish was making his fourth appearance from the bench as he eases his way back to full fitness, and he produced arguably the most impressive of his cameo displays, as he got in some good positions and showed a higher level of fitness. 

He will surely be pushing for a starting berth against either Farnborough or Maidenhead. 

4. Callum Dolan's first of the campaign. 

After seeing Jordan Young and Louis Dennis miss spot-kicks against Salisbury FC and Dorking Wanderers, Callum Dolan stepped up to convert from the spot for the Gulls in the 11th minute against Hornchurch. 

It was Dolan's first for the Gulls since his permanent return to United, after he found the back of the net twice 

5. A moment where the game could have turned. 

During his post-match interview, United manager Paul Wotton said that United had untold moments where their execution wasn't quite right, and one such moment was a chance for leading scorer Jordan Young in the 13th minute. 

Two minutes earlier, Callum Dolan had given the Gulls the lead from the penalty spot and Young looked well placed to double their lead after being through by Matt Jay. However, the opportunity fell to him on his weaker right foot, rather his stronger left foot, and he fired a tame effort straight at Hornchurch's Wolves loanee keeper Arthur Nasta. 

As it transpired, Hornchurch equalised on 20 minutes with a penalty of their own before netting their winner early in the second half. 

Had United doubled their advantage, it would surely have turned out to be a different game, perhaps with a different outcome too. 

ON THIS DAY: TORQUAY UNITED 4 AFC BOURNEMOUTH 0 2002-03

The appointment of Leroy Rosenior as Torquay United manager in the summer of 2002 marked the beginning of an exciting period of attacking football at Plainmoor.

After inheriting a squad that included the likes of David Graham, Alex Russell and Jason Fowler – names that are still revered by the Plainmoor faithful to this day – Rosenior opted for a ‘nip and tuck’ job instead of ‘major surgery’ on succeeding Roy McFarland.

Centre forward Martin Gritton, goalkeeper Jamie Attwell and left winger Neil Prince were the only arrivals in the close season, as United got the 2002-03 campaign off to a winning start with a 2-1 victory over Bristol Rovers. Indeed, debutants Prince and Gritton combined to score the Gulls’ opening goal against the Pirates – the former’s cross was headed home by the latter.

Two away defeats to Rushden & Diamonds and York City then followed before United embarked on a nine-match unbeaten league run. This fine sequence was followed by a run of defeats against Boston United (1-2), Hull City (1-4), Second Division Wycombe Wanderers in the LDV Vans Trophy (0-4) and Scunthorpe United (1-5) before AFC Bournemouth came to Plainmoor on a Tuesday in late October 2002.

The Cherries were a team that United have had plenty of history with; A number of high-profile departures from Plainmoor to Dean Court in the early 1970s, which saw a number of Torquay favourites - including Mickey Cave, Tony Scott, Tommy Mitchinson, John Benson and Bill Kitchener - reunited with their former United teammate John Bond, who had been installed as Bournemouth manager following his retirement from playing. The series of moves would later be referred to as the ‘Bond Burglary’.

In more recent times, the Gulls had eliminated the Cherries from the previous year’s Worthington Cup. Goals from David Graham and Chris Brandon had secured United a 2-0 win over Bournemouth at Dorchester Town’s Avenue Stadium – Dean Court was undergoing redevelopment work at the time – which set up a trip to White Hart Lane to face Tottenham Hotspur in the next round.

United’s previous four results prompted Rosenior into reshuffling his defence. Matt Hockley came in at right-back, Lee Canoville partnered Reuben Hazell at centre back and David Woozley moved to left-back.

The Gulls made a flying start as Graham was ruled out for offside in the opening minute. United were also forced into making an early change as Jamie Attwell replaced an injured Kevin Dearden in the 23^rd minute.

On the half hour mark, the Gulls were rewarded for their attacking endeavours when a mistake from Bournemouth defender Karl Broadhurst on the edge of the penalty box was pounced upon by Gritton, who struck with his third goal of the campaign.

Four minutes later, United doubled their lead following an incisive breakaway following a Bournemouth free-kick, which saw Gritton made a lung busting run from inside his own half before releasing Graham who found the back of net with a firm strike from ten yards.

In the second half, the Gulls continued where they made left off in the opening 45 minutes. Two minutes after the restart, Kevin Hill chased down a back pass, which led to Carl Fletcher – the future Plymouth Argyle manager – giving away the ball under pressure from Gritton. Gritton then teed up Alex Russell for a strike from 18-yards that extended United’s lead to three.

 

United made it four with 13 minutes to go when Gritton flicked a free-kick from deep from Reuben Hazell towards Graham, who then bamboozled the Bournemouth defence with his skill and trickery before rifling home his 11^th goal in 12 matches.

As well as ending a run of four straight defeats in all competitions for United, it also brought the Cherries eight-match unbeaten run to a halt.

However, it was Bournemouth who would win promotion via the play-offs at the end of the season, after beating Lincoln City 5-2 in the final at the Millennium Stadium, while the Gulls missed out with a ninth placed finish.

Nevertheless, United would be joining the Cherries in the newly rebranded League One for the 2004-05 season, following the dramatic scenes at Southend on the final day of the 2003-04 campaign that saw the Gulls pip Huddersfield Town to automatic promotion from Division Three.

Torquay (4-4-2): Kevin Dearden (Jamie Attwell 23): Matt Hockley, Reuben Hazell, Lee Canoville, David Woozley; Tony Bedeau (Troy Douglin 78), Jason Fowler, Alex Russell, Kevin Hill; David Graham, Martin Gritton

Subs not used: Jo Kuffour, Paul Holmes, Neil Prince

 

WOTTON LOOKING FOR CURE TO GULLS' AWAY DAY BLUES

 Paul Wotton is desperately seeking a cure for Torquay United's away day blues to keep their promotion bid from National League South back on track. 

Following the Gulls' defeat to Dorking Wanderers on Saturday, United's record on the road now reads played seven, won one, drawn twice and lost four. This is in direct contrast to their home form where the Gulls have won six at Plainmoor from a possible seven - the other saw them draw 0-0 with Andy Carroll's Dagenham & Redbridge. 

Over the years, United's away record has been a mixed bag. In the 1987-88 season, under the late Cyril Knowles, they recorded a record 11 wins on their travels, as they missed out on automatic promotion on the final day of the campaign before losing to Swansea City in a two-legged play-off final. 

Four years later, in the 1991-92 campaign, a year after eventually achieving promotion from the 'old' Fourth Division through the Play-offs against Blackpool at Wembley, they made an immediate return to the 'new' Third Division - following the creation of the Premier League in 1992 - after only picking up five points on their travels - all from draws. Remarkably, United's return of 42 points from their home fixtures was worthy of a side with play-off ambitions. 

The Gulls tasted victory on the road when they beat Doncaster Rovers 3-2 at their old Belle Vue ground in August 1992. In September 2024, they finally won an away game in the third tier,  now renamed League One, when United came away from Edgeley Park with a 2-0 win over Stockport County, courtesy of a brace from current BBC Radio Devon summariser Martin Gritton. 

Whilst United's present record on the road isn't as bad as it was in 1991-92, the importance of Wotton finding a remedy to it remains of paramount importance in view of their promotion challenge. In order to solve it, Wotton will have to leave no stone turned, and analyse everything in terms of preparation, tactics, travel etc, and if needs be seek the opinions of the players, football advisor Neil Warnock, his assistant Mike Edwards and the rest of his backroom staff. 

Regarding the latter on the list above, it is worth noting that two of the most famous away wins in United's recent history, their 3-2 win over Barnet in 2000-01 and their 2-1 victory at Southend in 2003-04, were achieved after they travelled on the day of the game. It could be argued that sleeping in their beds and experienced familiar surroundings may have helped put them in a better frame of mind. 

Nevertheless, before the Gulls are on their travels again, they face league leaders Hornchurch, managed by former loanee Daryl McMahon, who are currently on a run of 13 games unbeaten in the league. 

CLEVERLEY RECEIVES DEVON DERBY BAPTISM OF FIRE

 Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley received a painful introduction to his first ever Devon derby, as the Pilgrims slumped to a 2-0 defeat to Exeter City at St James Park. 

Goals from Reece Cole and Akil Higgins sealed the win for the Grecians, which was also manager Gary Caldwell's first as City manager. 

However, early on it did briefly look as though things might turn out differently for the Pilgrims as Brendan Wiredu found the target early on, but it was ruled out for offside. The Grecians then struck twice to round off a miserable evening for Argyle, which ended with their 1,100 away followers booing them off the field of play. 

The defeat sees the Pilgrims drop into the relegation whilst the Grecians move up to 13th in the table.  

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS DAGENHAM & REDBRIDGE

 1. Plainmoor remains a fortress for the Gulls. 

Despite not securing a sixth straight home league win, which would have equalled a club record dating back to the 1926-27 season, Torquay United remain unbeaten at Plainmoor in 2025-26. 

However, the Gulls could have been looking at a sensational sixth out of six if Jordan Young's late chance that hit the top of the cross bar had dipped slightly lower. 

A strong home record has often been central to many of United's successive campaigns over the years; it is worth noting that in the 2002-03 and 2003-04 campaigns under Leroy Rosenior, the second of which saw the Gulls secure automatic promotion from Division Three, United only lost five league fixtures at Plainmoor - three in 2002-03 and two in 2003-04. 

The Gulls' next home league fixture sees them host Chippenham Town on Tuesday October 21st before they host Hornchurch, currently managed by former loanee Daryl McMahon, for a top of the table showdown on Saturday November 1st. 

2. Three clean sheets in a row. 

After waiting all season for a clean sheet, or cleano as they have become known in some quarters, Torquay United have now completed their third on the spin. 

Credit must go to the Gulls' backline, which consisted of goalkeeper James Hamon, Denzel Aykeampong, Jordan Thomas, who replaced Aykeampong on 24 minutes, Jordan Dyer, Sam Dreyer and Jay Foulston. 

And with former England striker Andy Carroll leading the line for the visitors, Dyer and Dreyer needed to be on top form in the centre of defence, and Foulston also made an important block near the end to deny former Gulls loanee Ashley Hemmings. 

3. The Daggers were in a false position. 

Although Dagenham & Redbridge went into the game in the relegation zone, most observers would have felt that their position was somewhat false. 

The Daggers, managed by former AFC Bournemouth boss Lee Bradbury, were certainly the most organised side to come to Plainmoor this season, as they went with a 4-1-4-1 formation, with Andy Carroll operating as lone front man on his return from suspension. 

In addition to Carroll, Dagenham also have former United loanee Ashley Hemmings, who was top scorer in National League North last season, and Donovan Wilson, who joined from Grimsby Town in the summer, to call upon, so hopefully for their fans they will begin to climb the table. 

4. A first glimpse of Cian Dillon for the Plainmoor regulars. 

With Sonny Fish yet to return from injury and Cody Cooke injured, QPR loanee Cian Dillon was handed the task of leading the forward line for the Gulls for the second game in succession after making his debut away to Salisbury. 

In the first half, the Republic of Ireland Under-21 international produced a dangerous cross which found Louis Dennis, which Dennis couldn't quite fully connect with. 

Then, in the second half, he was through on goal on 66 minutes, but saw his eventual shot deflected into the side netting for a corner. 

5. Strength in reserve. 

During Saturday's match, Torquay boss Paul Wotton sent on Jordan Thomas, Dan Hayfield, Matt Jay and Dylan Morgan as substitutes. Last season, Thomas, Hayfield and Jay were first team regulars for the Gulls, whilst Morgan, who missed a large part of last season due to injury but was a regular this season before the injury he sustained at home to AFC Totton. 

This kind of strength in depth will stand United in good stead over the course of the season, but it will also provide Wotton with a headache, albeit a good one!

DILLON CONTINUES GULLS LOAN LINK WITH R'S

 In recent years, Torquay United have enjoyed a fruitful loan connection with Championship side Queens Park Rangers, which they have continued with the addition of young striker Cian Dillon. 

The likes of Sinclair Armstrong, Stephen Duke-McKenna, Dillon De Silva and Arkell Jude-Boyd have all enjoyed their moments on loan at Plainmoor from Loftus Road, and certain parallels can be drawn with the aforementioned Armstrong and Dillon.

Both Armstrong and Dillon joined QPR from Dublin-based Shamrock Rovers and have both represented the Republic of Ireland at youth level, Dillon also has the caveat of having represented the Republic at Under-21 level. 

Like Armstrong, who scored twice in nine appearances for United in the 2021-22 campaign, Dillon is now using a loan stint with the Gulls as a platform to showcase his talents. 

After a promising debut away to Salisbury FC, where he was selected by manager Paul Wotton in place of experiencing striker Cody Cooke, Dillon is now in line for selection for his first home game against Dagenham & Redbridge, who may or may not feature former England striker Andy Carroll in their ranks. 

However, it could be a young Irish hopeful who could end up stealing the headlines as the Gulls look to secure a record sixth successive home league win - which dates back 99 years to the 1926-27 campaign. 

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS FOR THE GULLS, BUT AWAY FORM IS IMPORTANT

 So far in the 2025-26 National League South campaign, home is very much where the heart for Torquay United under Paul Wotton. 

The Gulls made it five home wins out of five with their 1-0 win over Ebbsfleet United, which is the first time that they have completed the feat since the 1982-83 season under Bruce Rioch. The previous occasion that United won their opening five league encounters at Plainmoor was in the 1968-69 under Frank O'Farrell - putting Wotton into very good company indeed as a manager. 

However, there is another category of Torquay United manager that Wotton will be looking to join, and that's the group of United managers who have won promotion - which includes Eric Webber, O'Farrell, John Impey, Leroy Rosenior and Paul Buckle. 

The latter two on the list above both won promotion in their season in charge, Rosenior in 2003-04 and Buckle in 2008-09, and Wotton will be aiming to emulate them by doing so in 2025-26 - whether that be automatically as champions or through the play-offs. 

While the Gulls' have a 100% record at home they are still awaiting their first victory on their travels. United's record on the road currently reads played four, drawn two, lost two and won none. 

Their next away fixture will be against Salisbury FC in just over a week's time, in what will be United's first league encounter of the campaign. 

Parallels can be drawn with the 2008-09 season under Buckle, when, after a slow start, the Gulls finally recorded their first away win of the campaign in early September with a 1-0 victory over Cambridge United - which was also their ninth fixture of 2008-09. 

Against Ebbsfleet, Wotton was able to call upon Louis Dennis and Callum Dolan following injury whilst Sonny Blu Lo-Everton and Dylan Morgan returned from the bench; the latter two also got more minutes in their legs against Brixham AFC in the St Luke's Devon Bowl. 

With the quartet likely to start in Wiltshire, United have an excellent chance to finally end their away day hoodoo. 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS EBBSFLEET UNITED

 1. Five out of five for the first time in the league since 1982-83.

By beating Ebbsfleet United 1-0, Torquay United made it five wins out of five for the first time since the 1982-83 season when they won their opening five home encounters in the Fourth Division under Bruce Rioch. 

The previous season to that which saw the Gulls win their first five home league fixtures came in the 1968-69 season in the 'old' Third Division, shortly before Frank O'Farrell's move to Leicester City. 

So United manager Paul Wotton now finds himself in good company. 

2. Callum Dolan's return. 

During his six-match loan spell from Fleetwood Town in 2023-24, Callum Dolan became something of a talisman for the Gulls and his performance against Ebbsfleet was like a throwback to that time. Playing on the left of an attacking three, his cross was turned home by Jordan Young to score United’s goal and, especially in the first half, he looked as though he could make something happen every time he touched the ball.

If he can replicate the display that he showed on what was his first appearance of the campaign, he can be a big player for United. 

3. A first clean sheet. 

Clean sheets were something of a speciality for the Gulls this time last year; however, they have proved to be harder to come by, but United managed to keep their first shut out against Ebbsfleet with a performance reminiscent of some of their displays in 2024-25. 

Across the Gulls' back four left-back Jay Foulston and centre back Sam Dreyer produced arguably their best displays of the season, and right-back Denzel Akyeampong once again showed why he is making the position his own

As Paul Wotton said in his post-match interview if the Gulls can keep the ball out of the net they are a real threat going forward, so with the talents of Jordan Young, Louis Dennis, Callum Dolan and Dylan Morgan, not to mention Cody Cooke, at his disposal there are plenty of goals in this team. 

4. Jordan Young's sixth of the campaign. 

Jordan Young's 21st minute strike increased his tally for the season to six, and he could even have scored a seventh in injury time, but was denied by Fleet keeper Mark Cousins. 

After finding the back of the net 16 times for Yeovil in the 2023-24 campaign and 11 times for the Gulls last season, Young is well on his way to scoring double figures for three successive seasons. 

5. A two-week break. 

Owing to their FA Cup exit at the hands of AFC Totton, United now have a two-week break to prepare for their next National League South fixture, which sees them travel to Wiltshire to face Salisbury FC. 

The only competitive match between now and then will be their St Luke's Devon Bowl tie with Brixham AFC - which Paul Wotton has said he will give a run-out to some of his fringe first team players and those who are returning from injury to improve their match fitness. 

GULLS KEEN TO MAKE THE MOST OF HOME COMFORTS

 Whilst it won't be at the forefront of the player's minds when they take to the field on Saturday, Paul Wotton's Torquay United will be creating a small piece of history should they emerge victorious against Ebbsfleet United. 

Not only will the Gulls be extending their home record to five league wins out of five, they will also be emulating Bruce Rioch's class of 1982-83, who also won their opening five encounters in the league at Plainmoor. 

Of greater importance to Wotton would have been the return to training of injured midfield men Callum Dolan and Sonny Blu Lo-Everton, winger Dylan Morgan and forward Louis Dennis. What role the quartet end up playing on Saturday remains to be seen, the danger of rushing them back to soon needs to be taken in account. 

It is therefore likely that Wotton will have more options available from the bench. However, one player won't be featuring United will be young striker Jaydn Crosbie who has joined Dorchester Town on loan. 

Despite finishing bottom of the National League, Ebbsfleet, now managed by former Scunthorpe and Crawley midfielder Josh Wright, are expected to be amongst the league's big hitters. 

Experienced skipper Max Ehmer was a teammate of Wotton during a spell with Yeovil Town in 2010-11 and other figures such as goalkeeper Mark Cousins, midfielder Toby Edser and former Exeter City striker Josh Coley have crossed paths with the Gulls in recent years. 

Although they've only scored eight goals this season, the Fleet have only conceded seven and won their opening three matches of the campaign. 

This potentially rules out the kind of goal fest that the Plainmoor faithful witnessed in the Gulls' last league encounter with Slough Town, which United won 4-2, but don't forget the last meeting between the two sides in January 2020 was a goalless draw after they had conceded 117 goals between them in 2019-20. 

WEBB WEAVES HIS WAY TO HUISH PARK

 Yeovil Town have appointed former player Danny Webb as their new manager in succession to Mark Cooper. 

Webb, who was previously employed as assistant manager to Paul Cook at League Two side Chesterfield, played seven times for the Glovers in the 2006-07 and is the son of former Yeovil manager Dave Webb, who famously scored the winning goal for Chelsea in the FA Cup final replay against Leeds United in 1970. 

Since his retirement in 2014, Webb worked with the youth teams at Leyton Orient before working with the first team, which included 12 games in temporary charge of the first team in 2017. He then returned to the club's backroom staff where he worked alongside Justin Edinburgh as they won promotion back to the Football League in 2019. 

He joined Chesterfield in 2021 and assisted Cook as the Spireites won promotion from the National League in the 2023-24 campaign. 

Webb has agreed a contract until 2027 in what will be his first permanent managerial role.  

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS SLOUGH TOWN

 1. 100% home record remains intact. 

United made it four wins out of four at Plainmoor by beating Slough Town 4-2, making the Gulls one of only two teams in National League South with a 100% home record (the league leaders Hornchurch are the other). 

It is the first time that United have won their opening four home league games of the campaign since the 1982-83 season under Bruce Rioch when they beat Stockport County 3-0, Aldershot 4-2, Darlington and Hartlepool United 3-2. 

2. A virtuoso display from Louis Dennis. 

He might only have been on the pitch for the duration of the first half, but Louis Dennis had a hand in all four of the Gulls' goals against Slough. After squaring the ball to Jordan Young for United's opener, he then headed home a corner from Young to restore the Gulls' lead five minutes later, shortly after Jared Myers had equalised for the Rebels. 

Dennis then saw his low cross inadvertently turned home for an own goal by Slough's Johnny Goddard to make 3-1 before he provided another low delivery, which was tapped home by Cody Cooke. 

He was replaced by Dan Hayfield before the start of the second half, but manager Paul Wotton will be hoping that he will be fit to face AFC Totton in the FA Cup. 

3. Jordan Young's fifth of the campaign. 

Jordan Young made it five for the 2025-26 season when he turned home from close range in the eighth minute after being teed up by Louis Dennis. 

Young found the back of the net 11 times in the 2024-25 campaign for the Gulls, as he won the club's player of the year award. He also finished the 2023-24 season as Yeovil Town's top scorer with 16 goals, you would bet against him ending the current campaign as United's leading scorer. 

4. Denzel Akyempong solid at right back. 

In the wake of a successful trial in pre-season, Denzel Akyempong recently joined the Gulls on a prove yourself deal, and he produced a solid display at right-back. 

As well as being strong defensively, he is also a good athlete and has a long throw which United can utilise to good effect when required.  

5.  An eighth game in 28 days. 

Games early on in the season in English football often come thick and fast and Torquay United's clash with Slough Town was their eighth in 28 days. It is also a schedule that United have faced with injuries to up to six players at any one time. 

However, with midfielder Callum Dolan and winger Dylan Morgan set to return before the end of the month, so manager Paul Wotton will have more options available to him.  

 

TORQUAY UNITED 4 SLOUGH TOWN 2

 Torquay United maintained their 100% home record in National League South thanks to a stunning first display that saw them hit four past Slough Town.

The Gulls looked to be in front after 40 seconds when Cody Cooke poked home from close range following good work from Matt Jay and Louis Dennis, but he was adjudged to have been offside.

United eventually edged ahead in the eighth minute when Dennis squared the ball to Jordan Young, who slotted home his fifth of the campaign.

The Rebels levelled matters three minutes later as Jared Myers raced beyond the Gulls defence before finding the back of the net with an angled effort.

Two minutes later, United restored their lead as Young’s corner was headed home by Dennis.

In the 27^th minute, the Gulls extended their advantage when Slough’s Johnny Goddard inadvertently turned a cross from Dennis into his own net.

Dennis was the architect again on 32 minutes when his low cross was tapped home by Cooke.

Four minutes before the break, Wiktor Makowski pulled one back for the Rebels after he latched onto a long punt down field from keeper Adam Desbois.

In the second half, Young and Jordan Dyer both went close for the Gulls as they saw the game out to clinch a fourth home win out of four.

 

 

 

WHO WILL REPLACE MARK COOPER AS YEOVIL MANAGER

 In the wake of their 4-3 defeat to Gateshead, Mark Cooper was relieved of his duties as Yeovil Town manager. Cooper had been in charge since October 2022 and had led the Glovers to the National League South title in the 2023-24 season. 

 Jamie McAllister:

A promotion winner with the Glovers in the 2012-13 season, Scotsman Jamie McAllister was a long-term assistant to former Yeovil midfielder Lee Johnson at Bristol City, Sunderland and Hibernian. He is currently managing Brunei based Duli Pengiran Muda Mahkota FC in the Singapore Premier League. 

Scott Davies:  

Former Glovers loanee Scott Davies has performed well as manager of Slough Town in National League South with one of the league's smaller budgets, a club he still turns out for as a player at the age of 37. Could  he be ready for the step-up to the National League? 

Scott Bartlett: 

Another manager who has built a fine reputation in National League South, Weston Super Mare manager Scott Bartlett actually worked under Mark Cooper as head of academy at Forest Green Rovers. He has assembled a side that has established a reputation for playing passing football, and they just  missed out on the play-offs in National League South in 2024-25 - as they finished eighth. 

Steve Cotterill: 

The vastly experienced and well-travelled Steve Cotterill left Forest Green Rovers earlier in the season. If Yeovil did turn to him, he would join Gary Johnson in having managed Cheltenham Town, Bristol City and the Glovers. Like Johnson, he has also led Cheltenham into the Football League and Bristol City into the Championship, could he add a return to the Football League with Yeovil to that list? 

Derek Adams: 

No stranger to the South West from his four years in charge of Plymouth Argyle between 2015 and 2019, Derek Adams had been set to take charge of Morecambe in the National League prior to their takeover by the Panjab Warriors group. Ashvir Singh Johal was appointed as his successor, and he will no doubt be seeking a swift return to management. 

 

 

GULLS SECURE POINTS IN FACE OF ADVERSITY

 Torquay United manager Paul Wotton was quick to praise his players after they saw off the challenge of newly promoted AFC Totton on Tuesday night at Plainmoor. 

Goals from Dylan Morgan, an own goal and second half strike from Matt Jay sealed a 3-1 win for the Gulls, as they followed up their 1-1 draw at the weekend against Maidstone United to take their points tally from their opening three games to seven. 

After their win over Totton, Wotton described the win at 'one of the best results since we've been at the football club.' He also went on to say, 'I think - no, I know - we would have lost last Saturday (Maidstone A 1-1) last season, and I know we wouldn't have won tonight (versus AFC Totton). So I'm absolutely thrilled.'

Maidstone's Gallagher Stadium has traditionally been an unhappy hunting ground for United, and Jordan Young's late penalty secured their first ever point at the Stones' present home (the Gulls' previous draw in the 1990-91 season took place at Dartford United's Watling Street home, which Maidstone were sharing at the time). 

Against Totton, United were facing a newly promoted team with two ex-Gulls in their ranks in Joe Oastler and Scott Rendell, so they had a point to prove. 

This was also achieved against the back drop of injuries to Callum Dolan and Sonny Fish, who were joined on Saturday by Louis Dennis and Sonny Blu Lo-Everton. The injury to Lo-Everton from a dangerous tackle from John Gilbert evoked memories of injuries sustained against the Stones by Phil Lloyd (1990-91) and Liam Davis (2019-20); however, Lo-Everton will now be out for three months with damaged ankle ligaments and I wish him a speedy recovery. 

Then on Tuesday night, Dylan Morgan joined the ever growing list when he was substituted at half time after sustaining a heavy challenge in the first half. Nevertheless, United still managed to get three points, which moves Wotton's men up to second in the table. 

Wotton's comments about saying that United wouldn't have won against AFC Totton rekindled memories of a result early in the Gulls' automatic promotion success under Leroy Rosenior in the 2003-04 season. In United's second game of the campaign at home to Lincoln City, the Gulls, featuring the likes of Alex Russell, Jason Fowler and David Graham, created chance after chance, but couldn't break down the late Keith Alexander's Imps - until the 89th minute when Matt Hockley stabbed home to finally break Lincoln's resistance. 

In the previous 2002-03 campaign, United drew both games with the Imps, but completed the double over them in 2003-04, as they went on to clinch a top three finish, with a final day win over Southend United. If they can cope with the kind of adversity that they faced against Lincoln on that Saturday afternoon in 2003 and against Totton in 2025, then they will achieve their ultimate goals. 

 

 

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS ENFIELD TOWN

 1. Matt Worthington with a stand out performance on debut. 

On his debut for Torquay United, skipper Matt Worthington underlined exactly why manager Paul Wotton committed to offering him a three-year deal following his transfer from Oldham Athletic. 

As well as dictating play with a great range of passing, most notably with his assist for Jordan Young's second goal, he was also dropping back to help shield the back four. He has the potential to be as influential figure as two other players who captained the club from midfield in Chris Hargreaves (2007-2010) and Asa Hall (2018-2024). 

2. Dennis has the potential to be a difference maker. 

Playing in the number 10 role behind Cody Cooke, Louis Dennis marked his debut for the Gulls with the opening goal of the afternoon in the ninth minute. Cooke managed to get a flick on on a goal kick from keeper James Hamon and raced onto it before Dennis calmly slotting home. 

Dennis comes to Plainmoor with promotion winning pedigree from his time with Bromley, where he helped them win promotion from the National League in 2023-24, and he will be hoping to add another promotion to his CV come the end of the current campaign. 

3. James Hamon's saves. 

Towards the end of United's 2-1 win over Enfield Town on the opening day of the 2024-25 season, James Hamon made an important save towards the end to help seal all three points. 

He was also called upon to make a number of important saves as he denied Lamar Reynolds in the 23rd minute as he tipped his shot onto the shot before smothering the danger. In the second half, he thwarted Tommy Wood (twice) and Harry Lodovica, which proved to be crucial come full time. 

4.  Changes. 

Almost a year ago to the day, Torquay United faced Enfield Town in Paul Wotton's first game in charge on the opening day of the 2024-25 season, and much has changed since then. 

 Only five of United's starting XI in 2025-26 also began against the Towners on that occasion; James Hamon, Jordan Dyer, Sam Dreyer, Jay Foulston and Cody Cooke. Dan Hayfield also started in 2024-25, but came off the bench in 2025-26. 

5. A cameo from Aiden Edwards. 

Aiden Edwards, the 17 year-old son of United assistant Mike Edwards, made a late cameo as a replacement for skipper Matt Worthington in the 93rd minute. Edwards featured on several occasions in pre-season and looks set to be involved in around the first time over the course of the 2025-26 campaign.  

TORQUAY UNITED 3 ENFIELD TOWN 1

Last season’s National League South runners-up Torquay United got off to a winning start in 2025-26 against a spirited Enfield Town side.

Early goals from debutant Louis Dennis and Jordan Young set the tone for the Gulls before Cody Cooke netted from the penalty spot. Skipper Mickey Parcell pulled one back for the visitors, but United manager Paul Wotton was still happy with the result. “Everyone wants to win their first game on the opening day of the season and we’ve done that,” said Wotton.

The Gulls were in front on nine minutes when Cooke flicked on a goal kick from keeper James Hamon into the path of Dennis who marked his debut with United’s opener.

Two minutes later, United doubled their lead when skipper Matt Worthington picked out Young who cut inside onto his left foot before finding the top corner.

In the 24^th minute, Lamar Reynolds threatened for the Towners after United failed to clear a long throw, but Hamon turned his shot onto the post before smothering it.

Cooke then made it three from the spot on 41 minutes after Joe Payne felled Young.

In the second half, Parcell pulled one back against his former club after United failed to deal with a long throw in the 59^th minute.

Hamon was later called upon to deny Wood and sub Harry Lodovica, as the Gulls clinched all three points.

 

2025-26 PREVIEW: TRURO CITY

 History was made last season when Truro City won promotion to the National League and another chapter could be written in the 2025-26 campaign, if they upset the odds and survive in the fifth tier. 

A lot has been made about the distances that they'll be travelling in 2025-26 to far flung locations like Carlisle, Gateshead, Hartlepool, Scunthorpe and York etc; however, what could be seen as their biggest weaknesses could, in the right circumstances be their greatest strength. 

In addition to the travelling that they'll be making to away games, trips to the Tinners' Truro City Stadium will represent the longest journey of the campaign for all of their fellow National League sides. 

So their fortunes may depend on whether they can make their Truro City Stadium home into a fortress. 

It is also worth noting that their manager John Askey is one of the most experienced managers in non-league football, having not only won promotion from National League South, but having won promotion from National League North with York City and the National League with Macclesfield Town. His success with the Silkmen in 2017-18 was achieved against the odds with a budget that wasn't amongst the largest in the division. 

Askey has mainly recruited locally over the close season, bringing in Lirak Hasani following his release by Torquay United and Harry Kite and Aidan Stone have signed from Yeovil Town. Luke Jephcott and Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain have turned their loan deals of last season into permanent moves. 

However, Truro will need to fill the void left by the departure of Jezie Kabia to Grimsby Town.  

The Tinners' 'against all odds' ethos has got them to the National League, but they will need it again to help keep them there. 

Player to Watch: Harry Kite

Former Exeter City starlet Harry Kite struggled to find a club after experiencing a serious injury while with the Grecians. However, if he can maintain his fitness levels with the Tinners, he could get himself a move back to the EFL. 

In: Lirak Hasani (Torquay United), Harry Kite (Yeovil Town), Luke Jephcott (Newport County), Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain (Aldershot Town)

Out: Andrew Neal (Plymouth Parkway)

2025-26 PREVIEW: YEOVIL TOWN

 In their second season back in the National League after winning promotion in 2023-24, Yeovil Town will be looking to build on last season's finish of 18th. 

The Glovers are under new ownership with Dubai-based businessman Prabhu Srinivasan taking over as owner from Martin Hellier, with director Stuart Robins taking on the role of Executive Chairman. 

Finding a new owner hasn't been the only change at Huiish Park, as the Glovers have found a new training base in Bristol at the SGS Campus. 

On the transfer front, former loanee Tahvon Campbell returns to Huish Park on a permanent basis following his release by Solihull Moors. Kyle Ferguson also makes a full time return to Huish Park following a successful loan from Rochdale last season. 

For the last decade stability has been in short supply for Yeovil, as they fell from the second tier to the sixth. However, steady progress appears to be the order of the day nowadays for the Glovers. 

A  play-off charge in 2025-26 will probably be too soon for Mark Cooper's side, but a top half finish would represent visible progress. 

 Player to Watch: Tahvon Campbell

After previously appearing for the Glovers earlier in his career as young loanee in 2016 and 2017 Tahvon Campbell was returned to Huish Park to lead the forward line. A proven National League striker from his spells with Woking, Wealdstone and Solihull Moors, Campbell's pace and movement has the potential to be a real asset for Yeovil. 

 In: James Daly (Harrogate Town), Tahvon Campbell (Solihull Moors) Kyle Ferguson (Rochdale), Byron Pendleton and Ben Wodskou (Birmingham City, loan), Jed Ward (Bristol Rovers, loan), Luke McCormick (Bristol Rovers) Junior Morias

Out: Sonny Blu Lo-Everton and Jordan Thomas (Torquay United), Aidan Stone and Harry Kite (Truro City), Dom Bernard, Caleb Hughes, Michael Smith, Marcel Lavinier, Will Buse,

ON THIS DAY - EXETER CITY 1 EVERTON 4 CHRIS CURRAN TESTIMONIAL

Premier League clubs playing pre-season friendlies in the South West and testimonials don’t happen as frequently as they used to these days, but a quarter of a century ago, one of the top-flight big boys featured in a testimonial for one of Westcountry football’s finest servants.

Since making his debut for Torquay United during the 1990-91 season, Chris Curran helped the Gulls to win promotion through the Play-offs from the ‘old’ Fourth Division against Blackpool at Wembley in 1991.

He was then signed by Plymouth Argyle in the 1995-96 campaign when Neil Warnock, who managed him during his brief spell at Plainmoor in 1992-93 – when he led United to a ‘great escape’, and featured for the Pilgrims in their Third Division Play-off final win over Darlington in 1996.

A year later, Curran became one of the select band of players to appear for all three of Devon’s professional sides when he signed for Exeter City for £20,000 in the summer of 1997.

In recognition of his service to football in the South West, Everton, who were playing in a three-match tour of the Westcountry, agreed to face the Grecians with a full-strength side.

On the day, the Toffees ran out as 4-1 winners with Swedish winger Niclas Alexandersson opening the scoring before Ghanian midfielder Alex Nyarko netted a brace before teenage starlet Francis Jeffers added a fourth. Defender Mark Burrows managed a late consolation for the Grecians.

Everton’s first goal came in the 16^th minute when Alexandersson latched onto a cross from Jeffers, who looked every inch the ‘fox in the box’ that Arsene Wenger described him as when he signed him for Arsenal a year later and volleyed the ball into the net.

Everton's second goal was a speculative 18-yard effort from Nyarko which Grecians keeper Arjan Van Heusden got a hand to but couldn't prevent from hitting the back of the net.

Everton's third and Nyarko's second came with a left foot from eight yards out just before half time.

In the second half, the heat began to take its toll, but American striker Joe-Max Moore forced a save from Van Heusden on 56 minutes.  Just under ten minutes later, the Toffees increased their lead to four when Mark Pembridge received the ball on the halfway line, ran 35 yards unchallenged, and crossed to Jeffers in the box, who nodded home to score the goal which his endeavours deserved.

The biggest cheer of the day from both sets of supporters was when Paul Gascoigne came on as substitute for Mark Hughes after 67 minutes.

In the 90^th minute, Burrows pulled one back for City after the Everton defence failed to clear a corner.

2025-26 PREVIEW: TORQUAY UNITED

 After missing out on promotion last season, Torquay United will be aiming to go one better under Paul Wotton and clinch a return to the National League. 

The Gulls narrowly missed out on winning the league title to Truro City on goal difference before losing to Boreham Wood in the play-offs, which the Wood eventually went on to win, but are looking well equipped to go again. 

In response, Wotton has looked to add to his squad, particularly in the midfield, where he has reunited former Yeovil duo Sonny Blu Lo-Everton and Matt Worthington and has handed the captain's armband to the latter. The return of former loanee Callum Dolan on a permanent basis and the capture of Monashe Sundire also give Wotton more options in the centre of the park. 

The experienced Louis Dennis also boosts the attacking options available to Wotton and Sonny Fish has been recruited to provide competition for last season's leading scorer Cody Cooke. 

Last season, Wotton started off with a strong defence which was built on a back three of Jordan Dyer, Sam Dreyer and Jay Foulston and goalkeeper James Hamon, as the Gulls proved to be strong, resolute and tough to beat in the opening months of the season - bar their FA Cup exit to Bishops Cleeve. 

Over the course of the campaign, he added more flair to the squad with the additions of Jordan Young and Dylan Morgan from Yeovil Town and Matt Jay, following his release by Colchester, and the return of Will Jenkins Davies (now Bath City) from Plymouth Argyle on loan. 

With his new signings, Wotton's now has a more complete look to it and he will be looking to hit the ground running when they face Enfield Town in their first league match of the season, an occasion when the proof of the pudding will be in the eating.  

Player to Watch: Matt Worthington

Central midfielder Matt Worthington returned south to join the Gulls in the summer after leaving Yeovil Town to join Oldham Athletic midway through the 2024-25 campaign. Worthington has been handed the captain's armband and will be looking to add a promotion to the one that he, along with several of his current Plainmoor teammates, won with the Glovers in 2023-24. 

In: Monashe Sundire (Tamworth), Louis Dennis (Bromley), Callum Dolan (Fleetwood Town), Sonny Fish (Crawley Town), Jordan Thomas and Sonny Blu Lo-Everton (Yeovil Town), Matt Worthington (Oldham Athletic)

Out: Dean Moxey (Tiverton Town), Offrande Zanzala (Chester FC), Lirak Hasani (Truro City), Brad Ash (Bath City), Ben Seymour (Taunton Town season-long loan), Omar Mussa (Wealdstone), Oscar Threlkeld, Finley Craske

2025-26 PREVIEW: EXETER CITY

As Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell heads towards his third anniversary as Grecians' boss, he could well be embarking on his most challenging yet. 

Finances have been tight at St James Park over the summer, and with no saleable assets that immediately appear to look as though they could follow in the footsteps of the likes of Ollie Watkins and Ethan Ampadu, which has led to some questioning whether their Supporter's Trust model has reached the end of its life span. 

The club's run of playing academy products in 479 consecutive products came to an end last August, but there are signs a new crop could be ready to emerge. Nevertheless, while they will need to prove that they can deal with the rigours of League One football, the Grecians have always been patient when it comes to developing young players. 

However, Caldwell has been active in the loan market, bringing goalkeeper Joe Whitworth back to the club on loan from Crystal Palace and has also acquired Ryan Rydel from Stockport County, Ethan Brierley from Brentford and Sil Swinkels from Aston Villa. 

Older heads such as returning Kevin McDonald and Pierce Sweeney, who celebrated his testimonial against Swansea City in pre-season, could also prove to be important figures within the dressing room.  

From the outside, survival appears to be City's first priority. However, Caldwell will be hoping for more as they aim to extend what has been one of their longest post-war spells in the third tier since they won promotion in 2021-22. 

Player to Watch: Jayden Wareham

If the Grecians are going to retain their League One status, then scoring goals will be crucial and former Chelsea youngster Jayden Wareham could be the player to do just that. 

He will also wearing the number nine shirt, which was famously retired following the untimely death of Adam Stansfield with the blessing of Stansfield's family.  

 In: Johnly Yfeko (Rangers), Ethan Brierley (Brentford, loan), Ryan Rydel (Stockport County, loan), Joe Whitworth (Crystal Palace, loan), Sil Swinkels (Aston Villa, loan), Jack Bycroft (Southampton), Jayden Wareham (Reading)

Out: Jake Richards (Luton Town), Caleb Watts (Plymouth Argyle), Ben Purrington (Cambridge United), Demetri Mitchell (Leyton Orient), Vincent Harper (Walsall), Cheick Diabate (St Johnstone), Jay Bird (Salford City), Ryan Woods (Oldham Athletic), Mitch Beardmore (Bath City), Shaun MacDonald, Sonny Lee

2025-26 PREVIEW: PLYMOUTH ARGYLE

 The last time that Plymouth Argyle headed into a League One campaign following relegation from the Championship, they did so with a former Everton and England midfielder in charge. 

However, that looks to be where the similarities begin and end with the 2010-11 season, which saw the Pilgrims enter Administration and manager Peter Reid paid the heating bill and even auctioned off his 1986 FA Cup runners-up medal. 

Instead, current Argyle boss Tom Cleverley will be looking to build a new side who can emerge as a force in the third tier, which hopefully, in time, can return to the Championship. 

The summer has been notable for the departures of Ryan Hardie, homegrown midfielder Adam Randell and Ukrainian centre back Maksym Talerov amongst others. However, Cleverley, in tandem with head of football operations David Fox, has recruited a number of new faces who can become heroes for the Green Army. 

Amongst the new faces are Xavier Amaechi, who has played for England at a variety of youth levels - but has spent his senior career in Germany, and striker Owen Oseni from St Mirren who Cleverley will be hoping can fill the void left by Hardie. The signing of attacking midfielder Jamie Paterson will also add more experience to the squad, with club captain Joe Edwards also remaining at the club. 

Also, young starlets Caleb Roberts and Freddie Issaka will be looking to become the standard bearers for the club's academy products, following the departure of Randell.  

Cleverley is still on the lookout for a number 9, who would give his side a more complete look. Nevertheless, the loan market could provide him with an option. 

If everything can come together for the Pilgrims, a challenge for an immediate return to the Championship could be within their reach.  However, if this proves not to be the case, then they will have a strong base to build from next season. 

Over the course of the campaign, the Pilgrims will be reacquainted with a couple of old friends in the form of ex managers Ryan Lowe and Steven Schumacher, who are now in charge of Wigan Athletic and Bolton Wanderers respectively. They will also be coming up against former midfielder Conor Hourihane, who is embarking on his first managerial role with Barnsley. 

Player to Watch: Bali Mumba

In the wake of the summer departures of Hardie and Randell, Bali Mumba is now only one of a few of Argyle's key figures from their record breaking Championship campaign of 2023-24. If the Pilgrims do manage to achieve a second promotion, then Mumba, should he remain at Home Park in the meantime, would have played an important role.  

In: Jamie Paterson (Coventry City), Caleb Watts (Exeter City), Jack McKenzie (Aberdeen), Brendam Wiredu (Fleetwood Town), Xavier Amaechi (Madgeburg), Brendan Ibrahim (Hertha Berlin), Bim Pepple (Luton Town), Owen Oseni (St Mirren), Luca Ashby-Hammond (Fulham)

Out: Maksym Talerov (Stoke City), Ryan Hardie (Wrexham), Adam Randell (Bristol City), Rami Al Hajj (Michael Baidoo (Umm Salal, loan), Callum Wright (Wigan Athletic, loan), Nathanael Ogbeta (Barnsley, loan), Will Jenkins Davies (Bath City), Jordan Houghton

TALKING POINTS FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS NEWPORT COUNTY

 1. Dylan Morgan is on song. 

After his return from injury, winger Dylan Morgan has almost been like a new signing for the Gulls. He made it two in two in pre-season as he followed up his brace against Buckland with United's opener against Newport. 

In the 23rd minute, Morgan cut inside onto his right and found the target with an angled effort, as United raced into a three-goal lead by half time. 

2. A first glimpse of Matt Worthington. 

The speculation was finally over when the signing of former Yeovil midfielder Matt Worthington was announced on Thursday, and the Plainmoor faithful got their first glimpse of him in action against Newport. 

Donning the captain's armband, Worthington produced an assured display in the centre of park and led by example, which bodes well for the forthcoming campaign. 

3. Jordan Dyer and Sam Dreyer seem to be carrying on where they left off. 

The centre back pairing of Jordan Dyer and Sam Dreyer emerged as two of United's stars of the 2024-25 campaign, and they have carried on where they left off in pre-season. 

Dyer was a threat at set pieces and headed home a cross from Jordan Young on 29 minutes, shortly after he headed a corner from Young against the bar. Dreyer was the only outfield player to play for the full 90 minutes and he looked solid throughout. He also took over the captain's armband after Matt Worthington was substituted at half time.  

4. Competition for places. 

Following Paul Wotton's summer recruitment, competition for places looks set to be fierce for the 2025-26 campaign. In midfield, Wotton has Matt Worthington, Monashe Sundire, Sonny-Blu Lo-Everton, Callum Dolan and Dan Hayfield to choose from. Up front, Louis Dennis will be competing with Matt Jay for the number 10 spot in a 4-2-3-1 formation, and can also play as a number 9 should last season's leading scorer Cody Cooke not be available. 

Between now and August 9, when the Gulls face Enfield Town in their opening National League South fixture, Paul Wotton will be have plenty to think about when it comes to naming his first XI.