TT PREVIEW

Dom Roman – @DomRoman

OPTIMISM RETURNING

Make no mistake about it, last Saturday’s game against Folkestone could have gone either way, but a piece of quality from Matt Jay sealed a big win for Jimmy Ball, and before you know we have two wins in a row after (eventually) rolling over an ill-disciplined Maidenhead team. We all needed it, more bad results would have heaped pressure onto the manager and seen the Yellow Army’s frustration bubble over even more. But now we head into this weekend’s clash with Dorking feeling better and feeling like we can really make inroads into the season and start to push up towards the summit. Games with Marc White’s team are never dull, and this one is bound to be packed with incidents and talking points, let’s delve into the talking points shall we!

INSTANT IMPACT

We’ve had a number of loans over the years from the other Devon teams, some have done the business, many have struggled to adapt and headed back home with their tails between the legs. Caleb Roberts and Tegan Finn certainly didn’t hang around in making an impact on Tuesday night. Of course the platform and stage was made easier by the red card (given for a foul on Roberts), but they played with the confidence of two players ready to roll. Roberts replaced Worthington and looked very comfortable, whilst Finn was pacey and direct, taking advantage of tired Maidenhead legs and helping to make the win more emphatic. Very encouraging stuff and both will be pushing to start in the coming weeks.

THE LINE-UP

Matt Worthington sat out Tuesday’s game, but could well return for this one if selected by Jimmy Ball. We’ve also got Dan Hayfield back and Roberts on loan, so the midfield resources suddenly look a lot stronger. Angel Cappello had a tight hamstring on Tuesday so could miss this one, whilst Jacob Beaumont Clark is building up to full fitness and Tegan Finn is pushing for selection after his exciting debut! Whilst the Cooke/Moore partnership did the job on Tuesday, I’d be surprised if we stick to that plan, mainly because Dorking look to dominate the midfield and more mobile players will be required (no offence Cody!). Jimmy got his tactics spot on in that memorable play-off semi-final, so this is another intriguing battle with Marc White, and he’ll fancy his chances again.

THE OPPOSITION

Dorking have had a mixed start to the season and currently sit in 7th place with 3 wins, 3 draws and 2 losses – exactly the same stats as the Gulls! Their last two games have been entertaining, with 3-3 draws against Billericay and Chelmsford, so United should fancy their chances of finding holes in their defence. A key man defensively for them is Brennan Camp, a player who may return this weekend from injury, whilst players such as Josh Barrett (midfield) and Harry Forster (winger) are pinpointed as key players in this week’s opposition q&a, and forward George Nikaj is a dangerous player at this level. Marc White’s team look to get on the ball, push up and dictate games, but can leave gaps, as illustrated in last season’s play-off win. This should be an engaging and lively afternoon at Plainmoor, both on and off the pitch!