TALKING POINTS

Dom Roman

@DomRoman

Dom discusses the home loss

TOO MUCH TURKEY?

I don’t think it’s unfair to say that Torquay United’s players started the Truro game like they’d just finished their Xmas dinner, gobbled too many pigs in blankets and had to reluctantly put down their glasses of bucks fizz and take their colourful hats off for a kickabout. Slow, ponderous and perhaps suffering indigestion from the sprouts, we were sadly second to every ball and the White Tigers, who perhaps had just settled for some quick nibbles, set upon us from the off. It was 20 pathetic minutes of ineptitude and lethargy from the Gulls where they were worse than a Xmas Cracker joker and only one thing appeared likely… That takes me onto talking point number 2.

THE TRURO GOAL AND SET PIECE DEFENDING

‘Ahh Set Piece Defending, we are good at that ain’t we (one club, United)’, stated Gary in the fans forum with a twinkle in his eye, as George, Mel and Clarke gazed on lovingly at their man. Sometimes comments like that just ask to be torn up and rammed down your throat, and that’s what Hemel, Chelmsford and now Truro City have done with glee. Three goals straight from corners, and all three coming in the early stages of games. This one was far too easy for Adelsbury to move onto and finish, making a mockery of Gary’s crowing and putting the away team in what became a precious lead.

THEO WILLIAMS

Theo Williams has had a tough task recently, having to lead the line for United, having to hold up play and also being the main man for long balls, through balls and crosses is not easy, especially when you lack height, strength or experience. But credit to the lad, he tries his heart out in all those areas, always showing for the ball and working hard for team mates. Unfortunately he missed two decent chances against Truro, where a little composure was missing and the keeper spread himself well, and unfortunately he also picked up an injury. That may mean no strikers in the squad apart from youth teamer Thomas Chastey and the possibility of the hot headed Ross Marshall leading the line in a few days time. Happy Christmas Yellow Army!

WE DON’T DO INTRICATE

With a team lacking size and strength, it was apparent that Gary Johnson had rightfully informed them not to just chuck the ball aimlessly into the box, and occasionally this passing created possibilities for the Gulls. But when push comes to shove, United really do struggle to manage anything intricate in the final third. One pass will go right then the next won’t, or a first touch will raise faint hopes before the next one is predictably heavy, it’s frustrating watching this repeated throughout the season. With better coaching and something resembling a fluid gameplan, perhaps these flaws would be ironed out and United would be able to cut through part time opponents? I’d love to find out! In the meantime this patched up squad need to sharpen up and make the telling pass or shot count. Playing incisive football in the NLS shouldn’t be this hard should it?

ON TO PARKWAY!

On chances created, United probably deserved a draw from the game at Plainmoor, but Truro City (who finished 3rd in the Southern League Prem Division last season) played with a lot of heart, were well set-up to take the game to United by Paul Wotton, and when you give utter commitment and endeavour, you often get your rewards. Our best chance to take something positive from this game, as it has been for the most of the season, arrived when City tired in the second half and United’s professional fitness (I use those words very loosely!) allowed them to push up and dictate proceedings. But their keeper and centre halves stood up to the challenge and did enough. Onwards we plod to the home of Plymouth Parkway, an opportunity to make amends and finish the year on a decent note, but also an opportunity for Tyler Harvey and his mates to stick the knife in further. I’m sure you can’t wait, can you?? See you there!!

COYY – DOM

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