TT REVIEW

Danny Burnell

DISCIPLINE

Just 3 games into the season, and the Gulls’ card count already stands at 13. Anyone with, or indeed, without a Maths degree dosn’t need to tell you that’s not sustainable throughout the campaign. Through accumulation of yellow’s, or inevitably red’s, it’s clear Torquay will in time find themselves either down to 10 in match, and/or having to shuffle the pack due to suspension. Keeping your head is key, as we know, it won’t take a lot to sway a Ref in this division.

TEAM BALANCE

For the second time in three games, both Morgan & Lo-Everton found themselves on the bench. Proven game changers and a sure starter for every club in this division, but the preference remained with Moore up front, assisted by the big men in Morton & Westondorf. The team balance didn’t entirely feel right in the first 60 minutes, it was only through the introduction of Young & Morgan we saw a more conventional United line up, which saw natural width and the ability to run past a man. The season is only 3 games deep, there appears to be different styles of play we can accommodate, but finding the right set up for the task at hand is obviously the key.

TEAMS COMING FOR THE POINT

With the exception of probably Dagenham & Dorking, the vast majority of teams in this league are going to come for a point, and will be ecstatic when they achieve this. United will need to learn how to break these low block teams down, much like the other big clubs have done in this division. It’s frustrating seeing wave after wave of attack fizzle out to nothing and the longer that clock ticks, the more agitated the Plainmoor faithful become. This is most team’s biggest game of the season, they won’t play in front of 4k crowds too much in their career, so it seems only natural that they will raise their game. Once United click, it should be a case of picking these teams off, especially at home, and ease to three points.

SET PIECE WOES

Set pieces have become a major part of the game in recent seasons, and the NLS is no different. When in positions of promise, United need to capitalise and deliver good balls/make the keeper work to maximise their chances of success. Too many overhit crosses saw opportunities come and go, something JB will want to address i’m sure.