TALKING POINTS

Dom Roman – @DomRoman

Dom discusses the game at Plainmoor

A COMFORTABLE VICTORY

Going into this one the debate was whether Torquay United could find goals again and find a comfortable three points against modest opposition, and Paul Wotton’s team ticked both boxes. The Gulls played well in patches and scored two goal of the season contenders that put us back on track after a wobbly period of form, and whilst the second half saw United take their foot off the pedal, it was a pleasing evening that sets us up well for a tasty clash with Marc White’s Dorking Wanderers. Job done, now for this infuriating away form!

JORDAN YOUNG

I may be biased but a player of Jordan Young’s quality shouldn’t really be playing football at National League South level. Okay he’s predominately left footed (what a left foot though!), he’s not particularly strong or lightning fast, but boy can the lad play and he showcased plenty of that at Plainmoor. On the ball there were clever flicks and passes, dangerous crosses and a free kick that the Chippenham keeper could not claw out, a player energized again after some flat performances. Off the ball Young also stood out, rushing back to make tackles and looking for space to get United on the attack. Any more seasons at this level would be a waste for someone’s with Jordan’s ability, we can but hope that he is enjoying the challenge of National League football at Torquay by this time next year.

JAY BACK IN THE XI

Matt Jay without the ponytail is rather odd to be honest and it’s taking me a while to get used to the change in appearance! He returned to the starting line-up against Chippenham and whilst it would be over-exaggerating it to say MJ had a huge impact on the game, he was busy and industrious behind Louis Dennis, looking to link-up play and give United a cutting edge that’s recently been missing. Getting the best out of Jay could be crucial to Torquay United’s season, we know what he can do, but can we get him involved enough when facing better organised opposition? Time will tell.

MIDFIELD GETTING FORWARD

One of the things I enjoyed seeing on Tuesday night was Matt Worthington and Sonny-Blu Lo Everton getting forward in support of the attackers, and having more numbers up top helped create opportunities for the Gulls. Often in games both players have sat too deep, and Everton’s cracking finish for the second goal illustrated why he should be encouraged to get forward more. I had expected Dan Hayfield to play more minutes this season, but PW clearly believes in this partnership and what it can bring to the table.

DENNIS VERSATILITY

Whilst Cian Dillon did his best to fill Cody Cooke’s shoes, it looks a shrewd move to use Louis Dennis instead in the striking role and he certainly did his bit against Chippenham. Dennis is strong enough to do battle with centre backs and can use all his experience to hold up play, helping United to probe into dangerous positions. He was also in exactly the right position to finish Callum Dolan’s smart cut back, and once again showed what a key man he is for Paul Wotton. Players like Dennis and Worthington should give United enough leadership to do better on their travels, but that’s another story…