TT REVIEW

Danny Burnell

Danny discusses the game at Plainmoor

SUPER CAL

It took just 15 minutes from being subbed on to scoring a brace for Callum Dolan. The wide man has had his fair share of hard luck on the injury front throughout his career, but when fit, he is quite possible the best player in the league. A beautifully struck shot from distance was equalled by a lovely semi-bicycle kick to put United into the lead, and whilst we couldn’t hold on, it has to be seen as a decent display and fair result on the night. Keeping Dolan fit will be the conundrum as we push for that all important play-off place, but on his day, he’s a thorn in any defence’s side.

ATTACKING INTENT

Jimmy Ball promised a side who can run, and who are determined, and it was evident in the display against Dorking. United showed attacking intent from the off, and had their fair share of chances against the league leaders. There’s been many-a-occasion where Torquay have lacked such a threat in the past, but hopefully Jimmy Ball-Ball will provide some much needed entertainment at Plainmoor and on the road.

A FULL BENCH!

Just two weeks ago we were having to field a bench of 3, so it was a delight to see a full named 7 on the teamsheet Tuesday night. How many of them were ‘fully’ fit is questionable, but in Dolan & Dennis, they showed they were plenty fit enough to change the game in United’s favour. A wretched February is well and truly behind us now, and with returning players becoming that ever so much fitter, there’s cause for optimism around TQ1 once more.

TOUGH OPPOSITION

No doubt Dorking are a good side, and you can see why they are comfortably clear at the top. They passed well, and dictated the tempo for much of the game, but as with so many matches at this level, they were not able to do it for the 90. In the spell Torquay did dominate, we took full advantage and duly squeezed a result out of what appeared nothing. They’ve had their injury woes aswell, but have been able to recruit handsomely, with the additions of Sam Pearson a prime example. It will take a phenomenal run of from, and a horrendous drop off from Dorking for anybody to leap frog them.

STRENGTH UP TOP

A first look at Deon Moore for many Gulls’ fans on Tuesday night as the former Maidstone man lead the line. Whilst not a potent threat himself, he provided strength and power when United needed it in the final third. Often with his back to goal, he held up the ball well, bringing others into play and creating chances. With Cooke seemingly done for the season, it looks as if the burden of big hold-up man will fall to the Guyanian international. On this showing, it looked promising.