Competition – Division Three
Venue – Plainmoor
Attendance – 6,156
United were flying high in Division Three and only two points behind third placed Huddersfield. The last game had seen Leroy Rosenior’s men slip up 2-1 Mansfield, but this did not deter a big crowd turning up at Plainmoor for a derby clash against Gary Johnson’s side.
Tony Bedeau was called in for Liam Rosenior as Leroy’s only change, whilst the rest of the team remained settled with the likes of Alex Russell and David Graham having sparkling seasons.
United started well enough with Martin Gritton twice coming close, but it was Yeovil who scored first after 17 minutes. El Kholti’s shot from outside the area hit the post, and Darren Way was first to react to tuck home the rebound.
Before the half hour things got even worse for Torquay. Bedeau misplaced a pass in a dangerous area, and a good cross allowed Jake Edwards to score from point-blank range. The home crowd were shell-shocked, whilst Town’s big away following celebrated.
Leroy was quick to make changes, and two minutes later sent on his son Liam and Jo Kuffour for Bedeau and Hill. The changes had their desired effect, with Kuffour lively in attack. Gritton earned a free-kick just before half-time. Russell rolled the ball to Craig Taylor who slammed in a low pile driver to reduce the arrears.
It was a big moment in the game. United were more confident in the second half and it wasn’t long before they equalised. A penalty was awarded and Steve Woods stepped up to take it. His first attempt was saved by Collis but the defender finished off the rebound.
The game looked like it was there for Torquay to win, but try as they might a third goal was not forthcoming – with Yeovil showing what a tough side they were. Leroy’s men had to settle for a hard-earned point in what had been a cracking local derby.
Torquay United XI:
Dearden, Canoville, Taylor, Woods, McGlinchey, Russell, Hockley, Hill, Bedeau, Gritton, Graham
GOALS: Taylor (44), Woods (59)
SUBS: Rosenior, Kuffour (29), McMahon (78)
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PUBLISHED IN THE OFFICIAL TUFC PROGRAMME 15-16
TORQUAYTALK 