TALKING POINTS

Chris Wade

@tufcchris

EXPECTATION

The feeling going into a new season is always an exciting one. Everybody starts on zero points and we are all going to win the league. But this season for Torquay United, that is genuinely the only focus. Which feels odd. Not, let’s have a good start and see where it takes us. Not let’s push for the play offs. No. Just win the league.

That is absolutely the correct mentality. Gary Johnson has assembled a squad that we would feel quietly confident of in The National League, let alone the National League South. A good start would be really handy.

SQUAD DEPTH

46 games is a long season, and you’re going to have injuries, suspensions and loss of form. Having the squad to manage that is key. Apart from perhaps another centre back and a spare forward, all areas look ready. The slightly surprising late addition of Dillon De Silva was a welcome bonus, as I was a little concerned at a lack of pace. He will frighten the life out of people coming off the bench

This team looks to have goals in abundance. As long as we can keep the back door shut, we’re in with a good shout.

JASH

The front two are the most exciting part of the new season for me. Another strong season from last season’s top scorer Aaron Jarvis is needed and expected, and he should get plenty. Bradley Ash has really impressed me in pre-season and he has all the attributes to be a success. He also knows the league and what to expect. I was interested to hear Sheridan Robins say during the week when she joined us that Yeovil were very interested. An exciting prospect.

THE OPPOSITION

Whenever we have faced Dover in recent years, it feels like they have been a mess. And this season is no different. A lack of players, signings being announced then going somewhere else and doubts over having enough players have all featured in their chaotic pre-season. But we mustn’t take our eyes off the prize. An early win is key and this appears an ideal opportunity, especially with two home games to come afterwards.

POSITIVE VIBES

The end of last season and the summer have been a little odd in truth, mainly because of how positive the vibe has been around Plainmoor. Whilst you have to get over it and move on, it felt like some within the club hadn’t noticed we had been relegated.

The positive vibe has continued through the summer, with the signing of previously successful loans and some good looking other additions. Whatever you think about last season, now is the time to get going again. Let’s push together and keep this energy going for as long as we can. As we’ve seen before, even a season in the NLS can bring much joy.