MATCH VERDICT

Thomas Kelly

@tommyktufc

MATCH SUMMARY

Football returned to Plainmoor in weather that would have made you think it was autumn and not summer!

The visit of recently promoted Plymouth Argyle of the Championship would prove another difficult test for Gary Johnson and his side, but most inside Plainmoor would have left feeling very satisfied in what was a tight affair.

Torquay came out in their “head turning” new home kit and got stuck into Argyle, with Ash and Stobbs looking lively early on.

Tomlinson cleared Issaka’s shot off the line before McGavin had his shot saved and Collins missed the rebound.

Argyle were under pressure, but on 30 minutes took the lead with a lovely volley from Whittaker from just outside the box as United attempted to clear the corner.

It took the wind out of our sails a bit and despite Asa hitting over the bar just before half time, United maybe unfairly went in behind at the break.

The first 15 mins of the second half had all the hallmarks of pre-season with neither side able to control the game.

Argyle rung the changes with about 25 mins left of the game, including the return of Adam Randell. However United managed to find a deserved equaliser with the hard working Brad Ash’s diving header from a Stobbs cross.

Despite the four division (how depressing) gap, United ended the stronger and deservedly got the draw which left many feeling optimistic for the season ahead. Its only pre-season but we already look fitter now than we did for the first ten games of last season!

PLAYER COMMENTS

Halstead – Could do nothing with their goal. Routine saves but not really threatened much in truth.

Trailist A – Sign him immediately Gary. Composed, pacey and works hard. We all know who he is and hopefully a future incoming is on the way.

Donnellan – Wasn’t afraid to push forward from the back, was solid in general all bar a few skew clearances when Argyle put him under pressure.

Tomlinson – He played well. Clearly a stint in the NLS has done him good for his development and Ollie did very well against a tough Argyle frontline.

McGavin – He did fine. I personally think we can do better but he was unlucky not to score. Subbed early in the second half. I expect him to start at Dover.

Stobbs – Impressive performance. Played on the right side and caused Argyle issues with his skill and pace. Great cross for the equaliser.

Lapslie – Duracell bunny. Absolutely everywhere, got stuck in, what we’ve come to expect.

Hall – More minutes in the tank for the skipper. No need to rush him playing a full 90 yet. Did alright.

Ash – A gem. Just like Tom, he chases everything. Took his goal really well. Will be a huge asset for us up top.

Jarvis – Not really much to say really. Tried to get on the end of set pieces but ours were pretty poor. Considering he got injured in this fixture last season, I’m fine if he takes it easy a bit. Him and Ash will cause NLS defences lots of problems.

Collins – Worked hard, put some good crosses in, had a good game overall.

Subs

Lovett – Composed, saved well. Not much to add.

Martin – Good to see him back in Yellow. Clearly in need of games but considering his long covid issues, he deserves a chance in the squad this season.

Crowe – Collective growns from the pop when he came on. He did ok. Should be good enough at this level. Time will tell.

Thomas – Impressed me with his 20 min cameo. He got stuck in, wasn’t afraid to put a tackle in. The crowd got behind him. Probably one to play in the early FA Cup/Trophy games more than the regular first team, but one to watch out for for sure.

Kennell – Only got 2 minutes. Proud moment for him I’m sure.

CONCLUSION

Finally it was so good to be back at Plainmoor and the atmosphere really surprised me. I guess local pride means a lot when Argyle and City come to town. It’s just a shame it has to be for pre-season affairs these days. It also highlights the potential the club has if the club can be successful both on and off the pitch, although it was depressing to hear the “on our way” song now includes “to the National League” rather than “Football League”. One step at a time I guess.