After beating the club record for successive wins against Truro City on New Year's Day, Torquay United now have the record for the number of unbeaten matches in the club's history.
The Gulls recorded their ninth win in succession against the White Tigers and they also extended their unbeaten run in the Vanarama National League South to 15 matches. Should they avoid defeat against Slough Town on Saturday - then they would have extended their run to a club record 16th game, beating a record which has stood since the 1990-91 season.
Certain parallels can be found with the Gulls' side that set the original record and the current side. The 1990-91 United vintage were managed by Dave Smith who, like current United manager Gary Johnson, was a serial promotion winner - having won four promotions as a manager before his arrival at Plainmoor (Johnson has won five and is seeking a sixth with the Gulls).
It was also a Gulls' side that had promotion in their sights; in 1990-91 United topped the 'old fourth Division at the end of October 1990 with a side spearheaded by a prolific strike duo of Tommy Tynan and Dean Edwards, scorers of 38 goals in all competitions over the course of that campaign, who were as every bit as important to Smith's side as Jamie Reid and Saikou Janneh, who found the back of the net 30 between them the season - are to Johnson's class of 2019.
Whilst records are all very well and good, promotion from the Vanarama National League South at the first attempt remains the ultimate prize. With fellow title chasers not in league action as they are due to face Premier League side Watford in the FA Cup third round, United know another win will help to pile the pressure on the Cards once they return to league action.
Another three points will put the Gulls five points and will leave Woking with three games in hand, as a title race that looks set to be every bit as intriguing as the Premier League battle between Liverpool and Manchester City, although many Tottenham Hotspur fans will probably tell you the North London giants could yet have a say.
Thursday, 3 January 2019
Sunday, 30 December 2018
FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS GLOUCESTER CITY
1. Club record equalled.
By recording their eighth successive league win against Gloucester City, Gary Johnson's Torquay United of 2018-19 equalled the club record for consecutive victories in the league. The record itself was set by Kevin Hodges' play-off side of 1997-98 and has stood for over 20 years.
Interestingly on both occasions, both sides won their eighth game of the sequence by a single goal; the Gulls of 1997-98 beat Cardiff City 1-0 through a Kevin Hill effort and United's class of 2018-19 won 2-1 against Gloucester.
2. The crowds are returning to Plainmoor.
A crowd of 3,071, which included 57 Gloucester City fans, shows that the crowds will turn out in good numbers to watch a Torquay United side that is doing well - regardless of the level the club finds itself at. It also reflects the club's potential to achieve their longer term ambition of a return to the Football League.
3. A direct contrast to their last meeting.
The last meeting between Torquay United and Gloucester City was best remembered for the incident which saw the then Gulls manager Gary Owers have a cup of coffee thrown over him. In the return meeting, the feel good factor which has been around the club since Gary Johnson was appointed is perhaps best evidenced by the fact Johnson felt disappointed by only winning 2-1 .
After the game Johnson revealed: "The players are sitting in our dressing-room as if they had got beat. They are not very happy with themselves, and that's a good thing. We didn't get anywhere the levels we have been getting to recently.
"I know we had lots of chances, and maybe if one or two more had gone in, we might be feeling different, but we left it too tight at the end."
Any feelings of disappointment surrounding this game will no doubt quickly be forgotten if the Gull can complete a double over Truro City on New Year's Day. As the late Notts County manager Jimmy Sirrell once said: "the result is all that matters, the rest is just gossip."
4. A two-horse race?
With Woking winning 2-0 against Eastbourne Borough, the National League South title race is shaping up into a two horse race between the Gulls and the Cards. Two points currently separates the two sides - United have 48 points and Woking are on 46. The Gulls are also seven points clear of third placed Concord Rangers, who have played the same number of games.
However, the Cards also have two games in hand, which will become three after United play Slough Town at Plainmoor on January 5th and Woking play Watford in the third round of the FA Cup over the same weekend.
5. Connor to return.
Wales Under-21 starlet Connor Lemonheigh-Evans was absent from the Gulls' starting line-up as his initial 93-day loan deal from Bristol City expired. Sadly for United, his creativity and energy were missed. However, the Gulls are hoping to finalise a fresh loan deal that will see Lemonheigh-Evans return to Plainmoor for their New Year's Day clash with Truro City and to help aid their promotion push.
By recording their eighth successive league win against Gloucester City, Gary Johnson's Torquay United of 2018-19 equalled the club record for consecutive victories in the league. The record itself was set by Kevin Hodges' play-off side of 1997-98 and has stood for over 20 years.
Interestingly on both occasions, both sides won their eighth game of the sequence by a single goal; the Gulls of 1997-98 beat Cardiff City 1-0 through a Kevin Hill effort and United's class of 2018-19 won 2-1 against Gloucester.
2. The crowds are returning to Plainmoor.
A crowd of 3,071, which included 57 Gloucester City fans, shows that the crowds will turn out in good numbers to watch a Torquay United side that is doing well - regardless of the level the club finds itself at. It also reflects the club's potential to achieve their longer term ambition of a return to the Football League.
3. A direct contrast to their last meeting.
The last meeting between Torquay United and Gloucester City was best remembered for the incident which saw the then Gulls manager Gary Owers have a cup of coffee thrown over him. In the return meeting, the feel good factor which has been around the club since Gary Johnson was appointed is perhaps best evidenced by the fact Johnson felt disappointed by only winning 2-1 .
After the game Johnson revealed: "The players are sitting in our dressing-room as if they had got beat. They are not very happy with themselves, and that's a good thing. We didn't get anywhere the levels we have been getting to recently.
"I know we had lots of chances, and maybe if one or two more had gone in, we might be feeling different, but we left it too tight at the end."
Any feelings of disappointment surrounding this game will no doubt quickly be forgotten if the Gull can complete a double over Truro City on New Year's Day. As the late Notts County manager Jimmy Sirrell once said: "the result is all that matters, the rest is just gossip."
4. A two-horse race?
With Woking winning 2-0 against Eastbourne Borough, the National League South title race is shaping up into a two horse race between the Gulls and the Cards. Two points currently separates the two sides - United have 48 points and Woking are on 46. The Gulls are also seven points clear of third placed Concord Rangers, who have played the same number of games.
However, the Cards also have two games in hand, which will become three after United play Slough Town at Plainmoor on January 5th and Woking play Watford in the third round of the FA Cup over the same weekend.
5. Connor to return.
Wales Under-21 starlet Connor Lemonheigh-Evans was absent from the Gulls' starting line-up as his initial 93-day loan deal from Bristol City expired. Sadly for United, his creativity and energy were missed. However, the Gulls are hoping to finalise a fresh loan deal that will see Lemonheigh-Evans return to Plainmoor for their New Year's Day clash with Truro City and to help aid their promotion push.
Friday, 28 December 2018
LEROY'S FINEST HOUR
Although he is better remembered for his infamous 'ten minute spell' as
Torquay United manager, Leroy Rosenior also led the Gulls to their first
automatic promotion in 38 years in the 2003-04 season.
Going into the game, the Gulls’ brief was simple; they knew that a win at Roots Hall would be enough to wrap up their first automatic promotion since Frank O’Farrell’s team had done so in 1966 – providing the Terriers failed to beat Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road.
Eight minutes later, United doubled their advantage when David Graham connected with a cross from Jo Kuffour to nod home into an empty net to score his 23rd goal of the campaign.
Whilst United were basking in the glory of a two-goal cushion, the news coming through from Whaddon Road wasn’t good as Huddersfield had taken the lead against the Robins through Andy Booth.
In the 17th minute, Gulls’ keeper Arjan Van Heusden was forced into his first save of the afternoon when he blocked an effort from Tes Bramble, but the rebound fell into the path of his strike partner Lawrie Dudfield, who slotted home to pull a goal back for the Shrimpers.
Despite having nothing to play for, Southend continued to make a game of it as top scorer Leon Constantine – who would later join United – asked a lot of questions of the Torquay backline.
Moments later, Van Heusden spilled a shot from Jimmy Corbett which landed in the path of Lawrie Dudfield who turned home the rebound, only to see his effort ruled out for offside.
The players could sense a change of fortune at Whaddon Road judging by the fans’ reactions, as Graham shot wide from the edge of the area in the 77th minute after being set up by Russell.
A full account of his match can be found in Torquay United : A History in 50 Matches at https://torquayunitedahistoryin50.bigcartel.com/
We will now take a closer look at that achievement, which was completed
with a 2-1 win on the final day of the campaign against Southend United as they
pipped Huddersfield Town to Division Three's third and final automatic
promotion slot.
Going into the game, the Gulls’ brief was simple; they knew that a win at Roots Hall would be enough to wrap up their first automatic promotion since Frank O’Farrell’s team had done so in 1966 – providing the Terriers failed to beat Cheltenham Town at Whaddon Road.
United went
into the game on 78 points, whereas Huddersfield were on 80 points. However,
the Gulls had a superior goal difference - so if the two sides were to both
finish on 81 points United would claim third place and the Terriers would be
condemned to the Play-offs.
Manager Leroy Rosenior named an unchanged starting
line-up as he kept faith with the side that drew 1-1 with Kidderminster
Harriers, as Reuben Hazell retained his place at right-back at the expense of
the fit again Lee Canoville.
More than 2,500 Gulls’ fans made the journey to
Essex and they saw the Gulls get off to a flying start, as they took the lead
on three minutes when Steve Woods volleyed home an Alex Russell corner to ease
any nerves that they may have had. Eight minutes later, United doubled their advantage when David Graham connected with a cross from Jo Kuffour to nod home into an empty net to score his 23rd goal of the campaign.
Whilst United were basking in the glory of a two-goal cushion, the news coming through from Whaddon Road wasn’t good as Huddersfield had taken the lead against the Robins through Andy Booth.
In the 17th minute, Gulls’ keeper Arjan Van Heusden was forced into his first save of the afternoon when he blocked an effort from Tes Bramble, but the rebound fell into the path of his strike partner Lawrie Dudfield, who slotted home to pull a goal back for the Shrimpers.
A minute later, Van Heusden made another stop to
deny Bramble and, moments later, United survived a penalty appeal as Hazell
appeared to have felled Bramble in the area – but referee Tony Leake waved play
on.
On 26 minutes, Kuffour volleyed over for the Gulls
and shortly afterwards Matt Hockley and Liam Rosenior both missed the target.Despite having nothing to play for, Southend continued to make a game of it as top scorer Leon Constantine – who would later join United – asked a lot of questions of the Torquay backline.
Early in the second half, the Shrimpers continued
to apply pressure on the Gulls as Constantine and midfielder Nicky Nicolau both
tested Van Heusden.
In the 64th minute, Kuffour went close
for United when he headed a cross from Russell wide. Moments later, Van Heusden spilled a shot from Jimmy Corbett which landed in the path of Lawrie Dudfield who turned home the rebound, only to see his effort ruled out for offside.
On 70 minutes, Dudfield went close again when he
blasted over with a free-kick from the edge of the penalty area.
With 15 minutes to go, news came through from
Cheltenham that the Robins had equalised against Huddersfield through Shane
Duff. The Robins had also been reduced to ten men following the dismissal of
Damien Spencer. The players could sense a change of fortune at Whaddon Road judging by the fans’ reactions, as Graham shot wide from the edge of the area in the 77th minute after being set up by Russell.
Martin Gritton entered the fray in place of a
tiring Kuffour on 84 minutes, in a bid to help the Gulls hold on to their lead.
Then in the final minute of normal time United
survived a penalty shout for a challenge by Reuben Hazell on Drewe Broughton.
Instead referee Leake waved ‘play on’, as three minutes of stoppage time were
added on.
During those three minutes, the result of Cheltenham’s
1-1 draw with Huddersfield Town had been confirmed which served to send the
away end at Roots Hall into raptures once Leake blew his whistle for full time.
The Gulls had done it. Their 38-year wait for
automatic promotion was over thanks to their fourth win in five matches, and
they had achieved it by sticking to the footballing principles of manager
Rosenior.
Unfortunately, they had no champagne to celebrate
with on the coach back to South Devon and had to make do with beer and soft
drinks instead.
Torquay (4-4-2): Arjan Van Heusden; Reuben Hazell,
Steve Woods, Craig Taylor, Brian McGlinchey; Liam Rosenior (Tony Bedeau 90),
Matt Hockley, Alex Russell, Kevin Hill; David Graham (David Woozley 90), Jo
Kuffour (Martin Gritton 85)A full account of his match can be found in Torquay United : A History in 50 Matches at https://torquayunitedahistoryin50.bigcartel.com/
LEROY ROSENIOR MBE
After it was announced that former Torquay United manager Leroy Rosenior has been awarded an MBE for his services to anti-racism education we will now take an in-depth look at his career in football.
Leroy Rosenior started his career in football as a player with Fulham in 1982 when he was given his debut by the then Cottagers manager Malcolm McDonald. A promising young player, Leroy received international recognition for England
Leroy Rosenior started his career in football as a player with Fulham in 1982 when he was given his debut by the then Cottagers manager Malcolm McDonald. A promising young player, Leroy received international recognition for E
He left Craven Cottage to
sign for Queens Park Rangers in 1985 and spent two years at Loftus Road
However, his return to Craven Cottage only lasted for one year as John Lyall signed him for West Ham United in 1988 to fill the void left
by Frank McAvennie’s departure to Celtic.
It proved to be an astute
move by Lyall as Leroy’s goals helped the Hammers to consolidate their top-flight
status in the 1987-88 season. He scored a number of important goals, including
a brace in the Hammers’ 4-1 victory over Chelsea
He finished the 1988-89 campaign
as the Hammers’ leading goal scorer, but was unable to prevent West Ham being
relegated from Division One.
Leroy remained at Upton Park
until 1992 when he moved to Bristol
City
Towards the end of his career, Leroy also made a
solitary appearance for Sierra
Leone
Following his retirement from playing, Leroy
embarked on his managerial career with non-league side Gloucester City Bristol
City reach the Auto Windscreen Shield
Final where they lost to Stoke
City
After a brief spell as Merthyr Tydfil manager, Leroy took charge of Torquay
United in 2002. In his second season at Plainmoor, Leroy steered the Gulls to
promotion to League One with a final day victory over Southend United that
clinched Torquay’s first automatic promotion in 38 years. Unfortunately, he couldn’t
keep them in the Division as they were relegated back to League Two on the
final day of the 2004-05 campaign.
Leroy left Torquay in January
2006 and was appointed as manager of Brentford in June 2006. He left Griffin Park
In May 2007, he returned to
Torquay United and was reportedly sacked after ten minutes, as the club was
sold whilst he was being unveiled as the Gulls’ new manager. This is the
shortest reign of any manager in the history of English Football.
Leroy is currently working as
a pundit for the BBC – mainly for the Football League Show between 2009 and 2014.
He is also a prominent anti-racism campaigner in football and receives his MBE
in the 2019 New Year’s honours list for his services to anti-racism education.
His son Liam Rosenior has played in the Premier League for Fulham, Reading,
Hull City and Brighton and Hove Albion.
An abridged version of this article
appeared in the Scunthorpe United vs Bristol City on February 12th,
2008.
Wednesday, 26 December 2018
FIVE THINGS WE LEARNED FROM TORQUAY UNITED VERSUS TRURO CITY
1. Midfield Maestros
Despite going a goal down, Torquay United soon took control of the Westcountry Derby with Truro City when their midfield clicked into gear.
Connor Lemonheigh-Evans curled home his third of the season on 26 minutes from 20-yards to cancel out Tyler Harvey's opener for the White Tigers. The Gulls then edged ahead when Kalvin Kalala followed up his brace against Hampton and Richmond when he played a one-two with Saikou Janneh and then found the back of the net from 30-yards with his fourth goal of the campaign.
Skipper Asa Hall then got in on the act when he fired home from 35-yards three minutes later and striker Saikou Janneh scored his 11th early in the second half before Jared Lewington grabbed a late consolation for Truro.
All four goals for United were 'goal of the season' contenders in their own right and the efforts of messrs Lemonheigh-Evans, Kalala and Hall have now taken the amount of goals scored by United's midfielders in the 2018-19 season to 19 (Jake Andrews 5, Kalala and Hall 4, Lemonheigh-Evans 3, Opi Edwards 2 and Chris Regis 1). This is in direct to last season when they scored nine from the middle of the park in the 2017-18 campaign and there is surely more to come from them this season.
2. The sense of de ja vu.
The Plainmoor faithful could have been forgiven for thinking that lightning was about to strike twice when Tyler Harvey volleyed home to put Truro ahead. He also netted an equaliser for Plymouth Argyle against the Gulls on Boxing Day, to secure a 1-1 draw for the Pilgrims, as a young hopeful at Home Park. Interestingly United's opening goal that day was scored by their new assistant manager Aaron Downes.
3. A winning return to Plainmoor for Aaron Downes.
United's Boxing Day encounter with Truro was also Aaron Downes' first home game since he returned to the club as assistant manager to Gary Johnson. The match also saw Downes face two of his former United teammates as Niall Thompson featured at right-back for the White Tigers and Ben Harding came on as a second half substitute.
4. A magnificent seventh in a row.
Whisper it quietly, but Gary Johnson's Gulls currently have a club record in the sights. United's victory over Truro is their seventh league win in a row - which equals a run that they enjoyed under Martin Ling in the 2011-12 season between January 2nd, 2012 and February 14th, 2012. The record itself was set in the 1997-98 campaign under their managerial reign of Kevin Hodges between January 24th, 1998 and March 3rd, 1998. A win over Gloucester City this coming Saturday would see the United of 2018-19 equal it.
5. Mind the gap.
United's victory maintains their two point advantage over second placed Woking. However, the Cards still have two games in hand over the Gulls, but Gary Johnson's side also have a seven point gap ahead of third placed Welling United. The Gulls travel to Woking on April 6th, 2018 for what is set to be a destiny-deciding game and a 'six-pointer' in the truest sense of the word.
Despite going a goal down, Torquay United soon took control of the Westcountry Derby with Truro City when their midfield clicked into gear.
Connor Lemonheigh-Evans curled home his third of the season on 26 minutes from 20-yards to cancel out Tyler Harvey's opener for the White Tigers. The Gulls then edged ahead when Kalvin Kalala followed up his brace against Hampton and Richmond when he played a one-two with Saikou Janneh and then found the back of the net from 30-yards with his fourth goal of the campaign.
Skipper Asa Hall then got in on the act when he fired home from 35-yards three minutes later and striker Saikou Janneh scored his 11th early in the second half before Jared Lewington grabbed a late consolation for Truro.
All four goals for United were 'goal of the season' contenders in their own right and the efforts of messrs Lemonheigh-Evans, Kalala and Hall have now taken the amount of goals scored by United's midfielders in the 2018-19 season to 19 (Jake Andrews 5, Kalala and Hall 4, Lemonheigh-Evans 3, Opi Edwards 2 and Chris Regis 1). This is in direct to last season when they scored nine from the middle of the park in the 2017-18 campaign and there is surely more to come from them this season.
2. The sense of de ja vu.
The Plainmoor faithful could have been forgiven for thinking that lightning was about to strike twice when Tyler Harvey volleyed home to put Truro ahead. He also netted an equaliser for Plymouth Argyle against the Gulls on Boxing Day, to secure a 1-1 draw for the Pilgrims, as a young hopeful at Home Park. Interestingly United's opening goal that day was scored by their new assistant manager Aaron Downes.
3. A winning return to Plainmoor for Aaron Downes.
United's Boxing Day encounter with Truro was also Aaron Downes' first home game since he returned to the club as assistant manager to Gary Johnson. The match also saw Downes face two of his former United teammates as Niall Thompson featured at right-back for the White Tigers and Ben Harding came on as a second half substitute.
4. A magnificent seventh in a row.
Whisper it quietly, but Gary Johnson's Gulls currently have a club record in the sights. United's victory over Truro is their seventh league win in a row - which equals a run that they enjoyed under Martin Ling in the 2011-12 season between January 2nd, 2012 and February 14th, 2012. The record itself was set in the 1997-98 campaign under their managerial reign of Kevin Hodges between January 24th, 1998 and March 3rd, 1998. A win over Gloucester City this coming Saturday would see the United of 2018-19 equal it.
5. Mind the gap.
United's victory maintains their two point advantage over second placed Woking. However, the Cards still have two games in hand over the Gulls, but Gary Johnson's side also have a seven point gap ahead of third placed Welling United. The Gulls travel to Woking on April 6th, 2018 for what is set to be a destiny-deciding game and a 'six-pointer' in the truest sense of the word.
Sunday, 23 December 2018
MID-TERM REPORT 2018-19
Plymouth Argyle:
After their 3-0 home defeat to Accrington Stanley in their final home game of 2018, Plymouth Argyle find themselves second from bottom in League One heading into the festive season. However, there are reasons for optimism for Derek Adams' side.
Firstly the Pilgrims are only one point adrift from safety - Argyle are currently 23rd with 20 points, one fewer than Bradford City who have 21 and occupy 20th place - one above the relegation zone.
If the Pilgrims can get 30 points or more from their next 23 league fixtures, then that should be enough to see them retain their League One status.
Secondly Argyle's injury situation is rapidly improving as Ruben Lameiras recently returned from illness and he is set to be followed in returning to fitness by Scott Wootton, Niall Canavan and Conor Grant.
Adams oversaw an incredible turnaround in the second half of the Pilgrims' campaign last season, which saw Argyle eventually finish seventh in League One in the 2017-18 campaign - narrowly missing out on a play-off berth - and a similar revival is required in 2018-19.
Three points in their Boxing Day fixture against bottom side AFC Wimbledon would be a good start for them.
Exeter City:
It proved to be the end of an era at St James Park in 2018 as Paul Tisdale left the Grecians for MK Dons after 12 years at the helm. In addition to this, Steve Perryman also stood down from his role as Director of Football. Nevertheless Tisdale's successor, Matt Taylor, has made a success of stepping into his shoes and City find themselves on course to reach the League Two play-offs for the third time in three years (the Grecians have lost in the Wembley final to Blackpool and Coventry City in 2017 and 2018 respectively).
Whether they make it a hat-trick of play-off appearances, or go one better and win automatic promotion, could depend on their ability to retain the services of leading scorer Jayden Stockley, who netted a treble in their recent 3-2 away win over Oldham Athletic, when the January 2019 transfer window opens.
Yeovil Town:
Yeovil head into 2019 nervously looking over their shoulder at the relegation trap door between League Two and the National League. The Glovers are currently four points above Notts County, who occupy 23rd place in the table and need 27 points from their remaining 25 games.
Whilst many of the clubs in Yeovil's position have opted to change manager this season - Cheltenham Town, Cambridge United, Notts County (twice) and bottom side Macclesfield Town have all made managerial changes since the start of the current campaign - the Glovers have instead shown greater faith in Darren Way and awarded him with a two-year extension.
Promotion back to League One by the end of the 2020-21 season has been described as 'a key objective' by chairman John Fry, but that will sound like a hollow boast if the Glovers are allowed to slide back into non-league football, from which they won promotion from in 2002-03. Should the worst come to the worst, they will found the present National League a very different animal to the Nationwide Conference that they last played in nearly 16 years ago.
Torquay United:
Torquay United's 2018-19 season so far in the National League South could be best described as a 'tale of two Garys' - Owers and Johnson.
At the start of the season, Owers was entrusted with building a side that would see the Gulls win promotion from a level of football that they had not found themselves at since the 1926-27 campaign at the first attempt. Despite a promising start, United drew their opening game of the season against Chelmsford City and beat Bath City and East Thurrock without conceding a goal in the process.
Then it all started to unravel for the Gulls as defeats to Oxford City and Hampton and Richmond followed before Owers had a cup of coffee thrown on him after a goalless draw against Gloucester City, an incident that proved to be the beginning of the end for Owers.
The end eventually came following a 1-0 home defeat versus Chippenham Town and former Yeovil, Bristol City and Cheltenham Town manager Gary Johnson was quickly installed as his successor.
The Gulls have yet to lose a game under Johnson in the league, at the time of writing they are currently 12 games unbeaten - which includes six straight wins.
They have also won their first FA Cup matches for the first time since the 2011-12 season, as they reached the first round, and their first FA Trophy match since the 2015-16 season following a penalty shoot-out win over Basingstoke Town in their third qualifying round.
Johnson has also made good use of his connections with Bristol City, where his son Lee is currently manager, to loan Connor Lemonheigh-Evans and Saikou Janneh in addition to Jake Andrews and Opi Edwards who had previously been signed by Owers.
As United head into 2019, the National League South title is well and truly within their sights.
After their 3-0 home defeat to Accrington Stanley in their final home game of 2018, Plymouth Argyle find themselves second from bottom in League One heading into the festive season. However, there are reasons for optimism for Derek Adams' side.
Firstly the Pilgrims are only one point adrift from safety - Argyle are currently 23rd with 20 points, one fewer than Bradford City who have 21 and occupy 20th place - one above the relegation zone.
If the Pilgrims can get 30 points or more from their next 23 league fixtures, then that should be enough to see them retain their League One status.
Secondly Argyle's injury situation is rapidly improving as Ruben Lameiras recently returned from illness and he is set to be followed in returning to fitness by Scott Wootton, Niall Canavan and Conor Grant.
Adams oversaw an incredible turnaround in the second half of the Pilgrims' campaign last season, which saw Argyle eventually finish seventh in League One in the 2017-18 campaign - narrowly missing out on a play-off berth - and a similar revival is required in 2018-19.
Three points in their Boxing Day fixture against bottom side AFC Wimbledon would be a good start for them.
Exeter City:
It proved to be the end of an era at St James Park in 2018 as Paul Tisdale left the Grecians for MK Dons after 12 years at the helm. In addition to this, Steve Perryman also stood down from his role as Director of Football. Nevertheless Tisdale's successor, Matt Taylor, has made a success of stepping into his shoes and City find themselves on course to reach the League Two play-offs for the third time in three years (the Grecians have lost in the Wembley final to Blackpool and Coventry City in 2017 and 2018 respectively).
Whether they make it a hat-trick of play-off appearances, or go one better and win automatic promotion, could depend on their ability to retain the services of leading scorer Jayden Stockley, who netted a treble in their recent 3-2 away win over Oldham Athletic, when the January 2019 transfer window opens.
Yeovil Town:
Yeovil head into 2019 nervously looking over their shoulder at the relegation trap door between League Two and the National League. The Glovers are currently four points above Notts County, who occupy 23rd place in the table and need 27 points from their remaining 25 games.
Whilst many of the clubs in Yeovil's position have opted to change manager this season - Cheltenham Town, Cambridge United, Notts County (twice) and bottom side Macclesfield Town have all made managerial changes since the start of the current campaign - the Glovers have instead shown greater faith in Darren Way and awarded him with a two-year extension.
Promotion back to League One by the end of the 2020-21 season has been described as 'a key objective' by chairman John Fry, but that will sound like a hollow boast if the Glovers are allowed to slide back into non-league football, from which they won promotion from in 2002-03. Should the worst come to the worst, they will found the present National League a very different animal to the Nationwide Conference that they last played in nearly 16 years ago.
Torquay United:
Torquay United's 2018-19 season so far in the National League South could be best described as a 'tale of two Garys' - Owers and Johnson.
At the start of the season, Owers was entrusted with building a side that would see the Gulls win promotion from a level of football that they had not found themselves at since the 1926-27 campaign at the first attempt. Despite a promising start, United drew their opening game of the season against Chelmsford City and beat Bath City and East Thurrock without conceding a goal in the process.
Then it all started to unravel for the Gulls as defeats to Oxford City and Hampton and Richmond followed before Owers had a cup of coffee thrown on him after a goalless draw against Gloucester City, an incident that proved to be the beginning of the end for Owers.
The end eventually came following a 1-0 home defeat versus Chippenham Town and former Yeovil, Bristol City and Cheltenham Town manager Gary Johnson was quickly installed as his successor.
The Gulls have yet to lose a game under Johnson in the league, at the time of writing they are currently 12 games unbeaten - which includes six straight wins.
They have also won their first FA Cup matches for the first time since the 2011-12 season, as they reached the first round, and their first FA Trophy match since the 2015-16 season following a penalty shoot-out win over Basingstoke Town in their third qualifying round.
Johnson has also made good use of his connections with Bristol City, where his son Lee is currently manager, to loan Connor Lemonheigh-Evans and Saikou Janneh in addition to Jake Andrews and Opi Edwards who had previously been signed by Owers.
As United head into 2019, the National League South title is well and truly within their sights.
Thursday, 20 December 2018
WHERE ARE THEY NOW: TORQUAY UNITED'S LOAN SIGNINGS FROM THE 2017-18 SEASON
If you want to impress your friends down the pub with your football knowledge, you could always throw into the conversation that you know how many loan signings Torquay United made during the 2017-18 season.
The answer, of course, is 17 - and we will now take a closer look at where those individuals are currently plying their trade following their respective returns to their parent clubs.
JAMIE REID: Torquay-born Reid initially joined the Gulls for what was a third loan spell from Exeter City under Kevin Nicholson, which was later made into a permanent move by his successor Gary Owers. Reid finished the campaign as United's second highest scorer with six and is currently topping the club's scoring charts again with 16 goals in all competitions.
JORDAN LEE: AFC Bournemouth starlet Lee made two appearances in his second loan spell with the Gulls before being sidelined by chest pains. He later returned to Dean Court and was released by the Cherries by mutual consent in February 2018 and joined Southern League Premier Division South side Wimborne Town in July 2018.
DAN LAVERCOMBE: Lavercombe re-joined the Gulls for a second loan spell following an injury to Ryan Clarke. He made two appearances before breaking his leg in training, which prompted his return to parent club Wigan Athletic. Lavercombe was later loaned out again by the Latics, this time to Cymru Alliance side Rhyl FC.
GEORGE DOWLING: One of several young players to arrive at Plainmoor from Bristol City in recent seasons, George Dowling opened his account for the Gulls on his debut in United's 1-1 draw with Chester FC on September 1st, 2017 after being initially signed by caretaker manager Robbie Herrera. He then remained at Plainmoor for the rest of the 2017-18 season and proved to be a big hit, as he won the club's young player of the year award. Dowling has been out on loan again in the National League this season, this time with Eastleigh.
MICHEE EFETE: Another signing made by Herrera during his temporary stint in charge, Michee Efete performed in a variety of roles for the Gulls after joining on loan from Norwich City, including centre-back, right-back and right wing-back. He also remained with United for the duration of the campaign and was released by the Canaries on his return to Carrow Road and signed National League side Maidstone United, whom he is currently on loan at National League South side Bath City.
CALLUM EVANS: One of Gary Owers' first signings on his appointment, Callum Evans joined the Gulls on loan from Forest Green Rovers and made ten appearances before returning to the New Lawn. He was later loaned out to Macclesfield Town, where he won a National League winner's medal, and signed for the Silkmen on a permanent deal in the summer of 2018.
RHYS MURPHY: The former Arsenal and Dagenham and Redbridge striker, who had also had a spell playing in Holland, also joined the Gulls on loan from Forest Green Rovers. He netted once in just eight games for United - in their 4-0 win over Maidenhead United - before returning to the New Lawn where his contract was cancelled. He then joined League One side Oldham Athletic for the remainder of the 2017-18 season and was released by the Latics at the end of the campaign following their relegation to League Two. Murphy is currently playing for Chelmsford City in National League South.
JOSH MCQUOID: An experienced midfielder who lists AFC Bournemouth, Burnley and Millwall amongst his former clubs and has also received international recognition with Northern Ireland, Josh McQuoid's loan spell with Torquay United from Luton Town didn't quite hit the heights it could have done. After 14 appearances, in which he scored twice - against Maidenhead United and Leyton Orient - he returned to Kenilworth Road in December 2017. He then had his contract terminated by the Hatters and joined Aldershot Town on a free transfer in January 2018, where he made 16 appearances and scored once before being released by Shots manager Gary Waddock. McQuoid is currently appearing for Weymouth Town in the Southern League Premier Division South, where the Terras are vying for promotion.
JAZZI BARNUM-BOBB: Signed as right-back cover after Ryan Higgins went on compassion leave - prior to his retirement with a heart condition - Barnum-Bobb joined on loan from Newport County and made eight appearances in all competitions - seven in the National League, once in the FA Trophy. He was released by the Exiles in February 2018 and later joined the Gulls' National League South rivals Chelmsford City - his present club.
ALEX DAVEY: Former Chelsea youngster Alex Davey was signed from Cheltenham Town following an injury to Josh Gowling and helped the Gulls keep a clean sheet on his debut in a 1-0 win away at Sutton United. After making seven appearances for United, a permanent move to Plainmoor appeared to be on the cards for Davey. However, he opted to join Boreham Wood in January 2018 instead as they embarked on a promotion push from the National League, which ended in a play-off final defeat to Tranmere Rovers. He is currently playing for Dagenham & Redbridge in the National League, who he joined in the summer of 2018.
AXEL ANDRESSON: After making four appearances whilst on loan from Reading, Iceland Under-21 international Andresson returned to the Madjeski Stadium and signed a new contract with the Royals until the summer of 2020. He then joined Norwegian side Viking FK in the Norwegian 1. divisjon in the summer of 2018.
ALEX FLETCHER: Newton Abbot-born Fletcher's loan spell at Plainmoor from Plymouth Argyle proved to be a brief one, and lasted for four games. He has featured four times for the Pilgrims this season, three of which have come in the Checkatrade Trophy.
ELLIOT ROMAIN: One of the loan success stories of the 2017-18 season for Torquay United, Romain scored four times in 13 appearances for the Gulls before returning to his parent club Dagenham & Redbridge - in spite of speculation linking him with a permanent return to Plainmoor.
He has since moved onto pastures new as he left the Daggers to join his present club Maidstone United.
AARON BARNES: Initially signed on loan from Charlton Athletic before a move to Colchester United in the January 2018 transfer window, which then saw him loaned back to the Gulls from the U's. He has made one appearance for Colchester this season in the Checkatrade Trophy.
TOMMY O'SULLIVAN: Former Wales Under-21 international O'Sullivan also joined United on loan from Colchester United, but often found himself left out of the squad due to the fact only five loan players are permitted in a matchday squad. O'Sullivan was released by the U's and recently joined National League North side Hereford FC following a successful trial period.
CONNOR LEMONHEIGH-EVANS: Lemonheigh-Evans, who had also played under former United manager Gary Owers at Bath City, proved to be a big hit with the Gulls towards the end of the 2017-18 season. Following Gary Johnson's appointment as manager, Lemonheigh-Evans returned to Plainmoor for a second spell with the Gulls - following the footsteps of fellow Bristol City Under-23 players Jake Andrews, Opi Edwards and Saikou Janneh. He has also added to the 25-yard strike he scored against Woking on Easter Monday with a brace against Winchester City in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.
RHYS HEALEY: With six goals in eight games - including a hat-trick against Guiseley - Healey finished the 2017-18 season as the Gulls' joint leading scorer with Jamie Reid after he was loaned to United by Cardiff City manager, and one-time Gulls' boss, Neil Warnock. He is currently on loan again in the current campaign at Milton Keynes Dons under former Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale in League Two.
The answer, of course, is 17 - and we will now take a closer look at where those individuals are currently plying their trade following their respective returns to their parent clubs.
JAMIE REID: Torquay-born Reid initially joined the Gulls for what was a third loan spell from Exeter City under Kevin Nicholson, which was later made into a permanent move by his successor Gary Owers. Reid finished the campaign as United's second highest scorer with six and is currently topping the club's scoring charts again with 16 goals in all competitions.
JORDAN LEE: AFC Bournemouth starlet Lee made two appearances in his second loan spell with the Gulls before being sidelined by chest pains. He later returned to Dean Court and was released by the Cherries by mutual consent in February 2018 and joined Southern League Premier Division South side Wimborne Town in July 2018.
DAN LAVERCOMBE: Lavercombe re-joined the Gulls for a second loan spell following an injury to Ryan Clarke. He made two appearances before breaking his leg in training, which prompted his return to parent club Wigan Athletic. Lavercombe was later loaned out again by the Latics, this time to Cymru Alliance side Rhyl FC.
GEORGE DOWLING: One of several young players to arrive at Plainmoor from Bristol City in recent seasons, George Dowling opened his account for the Gulls on his debut in United's 1-1 draw with Chester FC on September 1st, 2017 after being initially signed by caretaker manager Robbie Herrera. He then remained at Plainmoor for the rest of the 2017-18 season and proved to be a big hit, as he won the club's young player of the year award. Dowling has been out on loan again in the National League this season, this time with Eastleigh.
MICHEE EFETE: Another signing made by Herrera during his temporary stint in charge, Michee Efete performed in a variety of roles for the Gulls after joining on loan from Norwich City, including centre-back, right-back and right wing-back. He also remained with United for the duration of the campaign and was released by the Canaries on his return to Carrow Road and signed National League side Maidstone United, whom he is currently on loan at National League South side Bath City.
CALLUM EVANS: One of Gary Owers' first signings on his appointment, Callum Evans joined the Gulls on loan from Forest Green Rovers and made ten appearances before returning to the New Lawn. He was later loaned out to Macclesfield Town, where he won a National League winner's medal, and signed for the Silkmen on a permanent deal in the summer of 2018.
RHYS MURPHY: The former Arsenal and Dagenham and Redbridge striker, who had also had a spell playing in Holland, also joined the Gulls on loan from Forest Green Rovers. He netted once in just eight games for United - in their 4-0 win over Maidenhead United - before returning to the New Lawn where his contract was cancelled. He then joined League One side Oldham Athletic for the remainder of the 2017-18 season and was released by the Latics at the end of the campaign following their relegation to League Two. Murphy is currently playing for Chelmsford City in National League South.
JOSH MCQUOID: An experienced midfielder who lists AFC Bournemouth, Burnley and Millwall amongst his former clubs and has also received international recognition with Northern Ireland, Josh McQuoid's loan spell with Torquay United from Luton Town didn't quite hit the heights it could have done. After 14 appearances, in which he scored twice - against Maidenhead United and Leyton Orient - he returned to Kenilworth Road in December 2017. He then had his contract terminated by the Hatters and joined Aldershot Town on a free transfer in January 2018, where he made 16 appearances and scored once before being released by Shots manager Gary Waddock. McQuoid is currently appearing for Weymouth Town in the Southern League Premier Division South, where the Terras are vying for promotion.
JAZZI BARNUM-BOBB: Signed as right-back cover after Ryan Higgins went on compassion leave - prior to his retirement with a heart condition - Barnum-Bobb joined on loan from Newport County and made eight appearances in all competitions - seven in the National League, once in the FA Trophy. He was released by the Exiles in February 2018 and later joined the Gulls' National League South rivals Chelmsford City - his present club.
ALEX DAVEY: Former Chelsea youngster Alex Davey was signed from Cheltenham Town following an injury to Josh Gowling and helped the Gulls keep a clean sheet on his debut in a 1-0 win away at Sutton United. After making seven appearances for United, a permanent move to Plainmoor appeared to be on the cards for Davey. However, he opted to join Boreham Wood in January 2018 instead as they embarked on a promotion push from the National League, which ended in a play-off final defeat to Tranmere Rovers. He is currently playing for Dagenham & Redbridge in the National League, who he joined in the summer of 2018.
AXEL ANDRESSON: After making four appearances whilst on loan from Reading, Iceland Under-21 international Andresson returned to the Madjeski Stadium and signed a new contract with the Royals until the summer of 2020. He then joined Norwegian side Viking FK in the Norwegian 1. divisjon in the summer of 2018.
ALEX FLETCHER: Newton Abbot-born Fletcher's loan spell at Plainmoor from Plymouth Argyle proved to be a brief one, and lasted for four games. He has featured four times for the Pilgrims this season, three of which have come in the Checkatrade Trophy.
ELLIOT ROMAIN: One of the loan success stories of the 2017-18 season for Torquay United, Romain scored four times in 13 appearances for the Gulls before returning to his parent club Dagenham & Redbridge - in spite of speculation linking him with a permanent return to Plainmoor.
He has since moved onto pastures new as he left the Daggers to join his present club Maidstone United.
AARON BARNES: Initially signed on loan from Charlton Athletic before a move to Colchester United in the January 2018 transfer window, which then saw him loaned back to the Gulls from the U's. He has made one appearance for Colchester this season in the Checkatrade Trophy.
TOMMY O'SULLIVAN: Former Wales Under-21 international O'Sullivan also joined United on loan from Colchester United, but often found himself left out of the squad due to the fact only five loan players are permitted in a matchday squad. O'Sullivan was released by the U's and recently joined National League North side Hereford FC following a successful trial period.
CONNOR LEMONHEIGH-EVANS: Lemonheigh-Evans, who had also played under former United manager Gary Owers at Bath City, proved to be a big hit with the Gulls towards the end of the 2017-18 season. Following Gary Johnson's appointment as manager, Lemonheigh-Evans returned to Plainmoor for a second spell with the Gulls - following the footsteps of fellow Bristol City Under-23 players Jake Andrews, Opi Edwards and Saikou Janneh. He has also added to the 25-yard strike he scored against Woking on Easter Monday with a brace against Winchester City in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round.
RHYS HEALEY: With six goals in eight games - including a hat-trick against Guiseley - Healey finished the 2017-18 season as the Gulls' joint leading scorer with Jamie Reid after he was loaned to United by Cardiff City manager, and one-time Gulls' boss, Neil Warnock. He is currently on loan again in the current campaign at Milton Keynes Dons under former Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale in League Two.
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