TALKING POINTS

Chris Wade – @tufcchris

Chris looks ahead to the big kick off

IT’S FINALLY HERE!

After what has been a very long summer full of hope, excitement and expectation, it’s time for the talking to stop and the football to begin. To be at home on day one is always a bonus as the first opportunity to get the first three points. On paper, it looks like a good first test for a new squad that is ready and raring to go. The changes that have swept through the club since 20th April are frankly extraordinary. There were times when you would have taken having a club for day one of the 24/25 season, but to have one so full of pride, expectation and passion again is just so exciting. It’s time to get down to business.

TEAM SELECTION

The team selection on day one is always the most eagerly anticipated. Managers gone by have always selected their strongest team for the last pre-season game, but that was certainly not the case last week at Tiverton Town. I expect to see James Hamon start in goal, although Matt Wonnacott has proved himself to be worthy of a fight for the number one jersey. The three centre backs should be Jordan Dyer, Sam Dreyer and Jay Foulston. I did see the latter more of a left back when he was signed, but he looks well-equipped for that wide centre back role. Finn Tonks has been impressive so far, so expect to see him and Matty Carson given the nod as the wide full backs. The central midfield area is the most interesting for me. I think the best three are Oscar Threlkeld, Dan Hayfield and Omar Mussa, but there may be question marks on Oscar’s fitness after picking up a knock against Exeter recently. Roddy Collins could fill in there if needed. The front areas are also far from clear, I would go with Cody Cooke and Brad Ash. Sound options for Wotton to choose from.

THE BENCH

One of the key features of last season was the lack of squad depth. There was regularly nothing that we could bring off the bench to make a difference in games, and they were changes made in hope more than expectation. The positive change that has come has also bought competition within the squad. There are options all over the bench, and it has been positive to see that none of the players brought in look out of their depth, or unable to make an impact straight away. The ability to change things off the bench is key at any level, and this season sees the introduction of five available substitutes that can all be used at our level. It’s a vital part of a squad game that wasn’t there last season.

SUPPORTER BACKING

It was never in doubt, but the backing of the Yellow Army is simply magnificent. The numbers going in and out of the club shop prior to the Plymouth game was amazing to see, and the money that it must be generating is fantastic. There are options in the shop for everybody. Season Ticket sales have been strong, and a crowd in excess of 4000 is hoped for against Enfield. The noise and opportunity to play in front of those people contributed to some choosing Torquay over other teams. It’s going to be a great occasion in what is forecasted to be a lovely sunny afternoon.

THE OPPOSITION

Whilst Saturday is all about us for Torquay fans, it promises to be an excellent occasion for out visitors Enfield Town. Promoted to the level and playing in front of a large crowd will be a great opportunity for the Enfield players also, and we must be alert to the heightened performance level that could bring for our visitors. They will want to show that they are here to stay and belong, and we will need to work hard to get the points.