TUST Updates

[TUST_Official]

27th January 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

TRAVEL FRUSTRATION FOR THE YELLOW ARMY

LATE POSTPONEMENTS - WHAT’S TO BE DONE?

BIG SIX PONTER AT PLAINMOOR ON SATURDAY

Saturday’s inevitable postponements across the country, following a night of minus temperatures, decimated the majority of non-league fixtures, leaving only a handful being played.

Matches being called off due to frozen grounds is nothing new but what upset many, including numerous Yellow Army stalwarts, was the timing of these decisions.

Particularly irritating was Torquay’s match at Boreham Wood which, despite the home side publishing on Friday a message that the pitch was fine, the game was still on and there was no planned pitch inspection, found late that this wasn’t the case.

That the referee called off the game 75 minutes before kick-off caused a lot of upset not to mention wasted travel and cost.

Given the circumstances maybe Boreham Wood should offer free entry to Gulls’ fans for the re-arranged date.

*******

Torquay were not the only side to suffer a late decision - spare a thought for Altrincham whose match at Yeovil was postponed at 1.30pm while Havant & Waterlooville in National South were assured the game was on before leaving on Saturday morning to Dover only to find it was off upon their arrival.

And Ascot United were on the M5 before turning around as their FA Vase game at Buckland Athletic was called off mid-morning.

A couple of other clubs had a lucky benefit from these postponements as a number of the Yellow Army went to watch Watford v Rotherham while Havant fans helped swell the gate at Folkestone to 902.

All of us who travel to games have, over time, unfortunately suffered from late decisions. I recall driving from Berkshire, a 360 mile round trip, to Plainmoor for a home fixture with Mansfield Town and was in my seat in the Family Stand when a sea mist descended and it became impossible to see the away end, inevitably the match was off.

*******

With United due to play Woking on Tuesday, with the signs of more minus temperatures, full credit to both clubs for moving the game to Wednesday with the likelihood of warmer weather.

As we now know that game too was called off but before the team coach set off.

So yet another fixture to be rearranged.

*******

As predicted United fans have seen a flurry of activity in the transfer market as Gary Johnson shakes up his squad, bringing in a number of exciting prospects including another striker, Tope Fadahunsi on loan from Sutton United and experienced defender Jacob Mensah, recently released by Maidstone United.

That’s five additions in the last month so credit to the owner for sanctioning them.

With several games to be re-arranged, there are going to be matches Saturday - Tuesday - Saturday between now and the end of the season so a bigger squad will be important.

*******

Only two National League matches were played on Saturday, both on 4G pitches, fellow strugglers Maidstone lost again as Wrexham snatched a late winner in front of 3,341 while Bromley were held at home by Aldershot with 2,764.

*******

Two United sides did play over the weekend, the Under-18s kept on course to retain its South West Counties Youth League title with a comprehensive 3-0 home win over Mangostfield United. Isaac McCure, George Collins and Ben Aldous on the scoresheet.

Then on Sunday Torquay’s Women’s side kept the pressure on at the top of the table as well as maintaining their 100% home record following a 2-1 win over Bishops Lydeard Ladies, goals from Daisy Self and Connie Pengelly.

*******

One of Gary Johnson’s pet hates over recent seasons has been the amount of time wasting which takes place at all levels of the game - the ‘dark arts’ some call it. All teams are guilty, usually trying to protect a lead, but some are worse than others.

In the World Cup it seemed as if officials had decided to act and many matches past the 100 minute mark as a result.

Last week football’s rule makers met at Wembley to discuss this very topic with three possible solutions: enforce existing rules including goalkeepers not holding the ball for more than six seconds, second, follow the example set in the World Cup and thirdly, using a stop-clock as in Rugby Union.

The IFAB meeting in the end decided to issue guidelines for next season along the lines of how World Cup matches were refereed.

With ball-in-play time down to less than 56 per cent this seems another opportunity for proper change lost.

The same committee also rejected trials on a temporary concussion substitutes in the Premier League.

*******

Often one of the signs of a struggling side can be seen in their disciplinary record - the number of yellow and red cards accumulated. In a recent Fair Play Table, surprisingly ‘topping’ it are Bromley, followed closely by Torquay United. And suspensions towards the end of a season are never good news. After the Gulls the next bad boys are Eastleigh, Dorking Wanderers and Boreham Wood.

*******

Alongside family and friends there are a number of fans who attend Torquay’s women’s matches with a number who turn up on an ad hoc basis.

This week what are your views on matches being postponed? The day before? At least by 9am on the day? Send your opinion to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

Tomorrow, there’s a really big six pointer at Plainmoor with Maidstone the visitors, following their eighth successive defeat on Tuesday, 0-3 to Aldershot.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

10th February 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

WHISPER IT ARE THERE GREEN SHOOTS OF RECOVERY AT PLAINMOOR ?

TROUBLE BREWING AT SOUTHEND

AND AMBASSADOR DANNI FOR #HERGAMETOO

It’s the time of the year that as you look around you see snowdrops and daffodils appearing as they spring into view and, although they lost to a Notts County side determined to make this the year of their EFL return, there are green shoots of recovery seen at Plainmoor.

Those United fans amongst the 2,621 went home feeling that with more performances like this then the prospects of avoiding the drop are strong.

The big disappointment, as Gary Johnson referred to in his post match interview, was his side’s lack of ideas in how to take advantage of the visitors going down to ten men.

To be fair though, Notts County are the league’s form side having lost only one game in thirty while for Torquay this was their first home defeat since November 15.

The owner, Clarke Osborne, through CEO George Edwards, is to be thanked for clearly supporting his manager’s request to strengthen the squad. There is now competition for places which is always important for teams to be successful, Lewis Collins on loan from Newport County being the newest addition.

******

Recent progress in the FA Trophy has brought much needed morale boosting home wins followed by two 1-0 successes over FC Halifax and Maidstone United with a battling draw at third placed Woking last week.

So whisper it, Saturday’s defeat was only a blip in the Gulls moving up the table to catch first Oldham and then Dorking and with seventeen fixtures to go it’s all possible. Maybe the words of Notts County manager Luke Williams will resonate for the rest of the season, “This is a difficult place to come to, every team who comes here will know that they have been in a game.”

Final word on Saturday’s game goes to referee Paul Johnson who was clearly trying to re-create the popular game show ‘Play Your Cards Right’ as he booked nine to take his total in seven National League matches to 37.

******

Crowd Watch: Big attendances once again in the National League: 7,459 at Oldham to see them lose 0-1, 5,737 at threatened Southend United (more later on this) and 5,110 as Scunthorpe lost at home on Friday night.

Great credit to the Green Army as 3,700 Plymouth fans travelled to the top-of-the-table clash at Sheffield Wednesday where 33,442 were in Hillsborough.

******

The long-awaited and promised Fan-Led Review White Paper was due to be published on Wednesday but somehow the Manchester City financial bombshell has, according to Government sources, put the announcement back by a fortnight. Reports leaked to a couple of national newspapers last week indicate that included from the Review’s recommendations will be stronger tests on potential club owners, more supporter engagement, blocks on breakaway competitions like the European Super League and the establishment of an independent regulator.

Following the release of the White Paper there will be a consultation process. TUST looks forward to following the developments.

******

Whilst Southend United continue to work on the pitch towards the play-offs, all is not well off it. The club faces a winding-up petition in the High Court soon, as it’s £1.4m in debt, the players have yet to be paid for January and the Supporters’ Trust are making plans for a phoenix club.

Meanwhile, Scunthorpe United were taken over last week by former chairman of Ilkeston Town David Hilton. They immediately celebrated with a 1-0 win at FC Halifax, their first away win in over a year. Hilton said, “I’m pleased to say the take-over has now been completed and the deal includes the football club, stadium and surrounding land.”

He now has to settle the winding-up petition with HMRC as the transfer embargo, that had ben imposed, has been lifted. Not only that but installing Jimmy Dean as manager from Peterborough Sports.

******

Fans of clubs like Torquay United can only sit with open mouths looking at the mouth-watering, astronomical sums Premier League clubs paid for new players in the now closed January transfer window, notably Chelsea. One of the recommendations of the Fan-Led Review is to see a fairer distribution of the massive wealth of the Premier League down through the divisions and into grass-roots football.

Just to be clear National League clubs can still continue to sign players until towards the end of March, including from the Premier League and EFL. This year it should be by around March 24.

Gary Johnson has hinted that, with the directors’ blessing, he could still bring in more players.

******

United’s Under-18s continue to impress and on Saturday cruised into the league cup semi-finals after a comfortable 5-2 win over Bridgwater with George Collins (2), Ben Aldous (2) and Jack Kennell on the score-sheet.

It’s been a busy time for Torquay United’s Women’s player Danni Wyatt. First, she was promoted to assistant manager. She’ll continue to play and support manager Steve Elswood over the crucial final stages of the season.

Danni said, “I’m over the moon to be appointed within the management structure. I think it’s a role I can naturally transition into to help Steve manage the club.’

Now she has been appointed a club ambassador for #HerGameToo, a new partnership announced by the club with the Torquay United Community Sports Trust.

The Women’s side recorded a comfortable 2-0 win on Sunday at Ilminster Town Ladies to keep up their title challenge. Goals from Connie Pengelly and Daisy Self in each half secured the victory.

The only disappointment is the news that top scorer Ellie Bishop is moving on to Bridgwater, who play two divisions higher.

******

United now have two games coming up with Barnet on successive Saturdays, starting with this Saturday’s FA Trophy game.

Which is more important, league survival or FA Trophy success or both? Send your view to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

Apologies for no column last week as I had a spell in hospital; many thanks for the kind get well wishes.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

17th February 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

UNITED BUZZED OUT OF THE FA TROPHY AND THE BEES RETURN ON SATURDAY

PLUS NEWS FROM AROUND THE NATIONAL LEAGUE

No more trophy hunting for Torquay United this season as the Bees stung the Gulls in a disappointing 2-1 home defeat. As United had done the previous Saturday in another 2-1 defeat, they gave it a good go but lacked the quality in the final third.

These are frustrating times to be a United supporter as the team had appeared to turn a corner with some improved performances.

They were, though, undone on Saturday as Barnet’s on loan striker from Leyton Orient, Harry Smith, provided two crisp finishes with headers as he used his 6ft 4in height to dominate the home side’s penalty area.

With Barnet returning this Saturday for a National League fixture, United are going to have to work hard on the training ground to come up with a plan to stop the visitors - without ex-United favourite Ben Wynter, out injured.

Maybe one hope is that, despite leading for a large part of the game, Barnet suffered a 4-1 defeat at league leaders Notts County on Tuesday.

******

We are now at the stage of the season where every point is crucial and if Torquay are to get out of the bottom four then only wins will be enough.

With new striker Lewis Collins likely to be out with concussion, is it conceivable Johnson will move to bring in somebody else?

Of teams down at the bottom Oldham have found some form while Dorking are looking likely candidates to drop into the relegation zone. Whatever happens it’s looking as if it’s going to be a close run thing for whoever ends up being relegated.

Meanwhile, at the top it looks like developing into a real race for the one automatic promotion place between Notts County, yet another win at Chesterfield on Saturday night, and Wrexham. Their match-up in April could be crucial.

Luke Young, skipper at Wrexham, keeps pulling the strings in mid-field while Kyle Cameron, captain of Notts County, and Aaron Nemane are proving to be influential in the Notts’s side. If only we had some of their talents at Plainmoor now.

******

Considering it was, what a lot of fans call the FA Trophy, a meaningless competition 1,459 attendance was a good effort.

They were there to witness another referee, Scott Jackson, who like last week’s decided to flash his cards, another nine bookings, six for Barnet including their assistant manager. Surely something is wrong when there have been eighteen bookings in two matches. The standard of refereeing needs urgent attention.

******

Last week it looked nailed on that the Government’s Fan-Led Review White Paper was to be published; the Prime Minister was all geared up to appear at AFC Wimbledon to promote its publication but then came other events which combined to postpone the announcement. First there was the Manchester City financial bombshell, then the Cabinet reshuffle which involved a new Minister for Sport and then the arrival of Ukraine’s President in England.

******

Non-League Crowd Watch: Wrexham pulled in 10,091 as they push for top spot while the Chesterfield v. Notts County clash was watched by 9,706.

There’s a fascinating race for the title in the Southern League Premier South between current leaders Weston-Super-Mare, two points ahead of Truro City, both 1-0 winners on Saturday and Weston have played a game less. Who knows, one of them could be visiting Plainmoor next season.

Interesting to see that Bath City have put in a planning application to change their pitch at Twerton Park into a 3G one. “It is part of the club’s longstanding strategy to make the club a sustainable business at the heart of our community.”

******

Further developments at cash crisis club Southend United who, with debts of £1.4m, face a winding-up petition in the High Court on March 1.

The club’s owner and chairman Ron Martin has come out to say that the future for the club is bright. He maintained over the weekend that funds will be available but conceded, “It will be close.”

This is not the first time the club has been in this situation and the supporters’ trust, the Shrimpers Trust, are in the wings planning for a phoenix club. The players still haven’t ben paid for January.

******

Torquay United’s Women’s side were held to a 2-2 draw on Sunday by Liskeard Ladies maintaining their unbeaten home record. Goals from the ever reliable Connie Pengelly and a penalty by Tee Kaptein gave the girls a share of the points.

In the race for the title Forest Green remain top, three points ahead of United, but having played three games more. Also in the mix are Bristol Rovers who United play away on Sunday.

Torquay’s Under-18s came from a goal down at half-time to visitors Yeovil Town but second half substitute Ben Aldous came on to score a memorable hat-trick to win the game 3-1.

******

Last week’s question divided opinion, there were a number who hoped that the team could progress through the rounds in the FA Trophy for a day out at Wembley but more went for three points this Saturday as being vital. Of course with the tie now lost it’s all academic and the importance is on winning the league fixture on Saturday.

After Saturday’s match there’s a big, big game at Dorking on Tuesday evening and a key fixture in United’s survival hopes.

50 points is usually the benchmark for staying up, that’s another twenty-four needed. Can United do it? What’s your view? Send yours to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

If you can, get down to Plainmoor on Saturday.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

CHAIRMAN'S NEWSLETTER

MARCH 2023
Dear Member

I last wrote to you in December to not only introduce myself but also, more importantly, to let you know about our preparations ‘for all eventualities’. As the only independent supporters’ group representing not only yourself but other Torquay United supporters, we are just as concerned about the current situation the club finds itself in, as I am sure you are.

Let me now expand on this a little more. For some time the main TUST board has authorised a small sub-committee, as the Strategy Group, to consider various scenarios should the current owner decide on a different course of action.

We have contingency plans in place should the club go into administration, liquidation or need to be relaunched as a phoenix club. These are supported by a considerable special fund to get the plans off the ground if needed.

In addition, over the past few months, we have held meetings with trust representatives of Hereford FC, Scarborough Athletic and Southend United gaining insight into their particular experiences; we also have a close relationship with the Exeter City Supporters Trust learning from their takeover of their club. We have, too, regular conversations with the Football Supporters’ Association which has a wealth of experience in advising clubs facing such issues.

Back in December I mentioned the hope that we could be renewing a meaningful dialogue with the club’s directors.

Regular meetings between TUST officials and the club’s Supporter Liaison Officer (SLO) broke down in September 2021 since when there has been no relationship.

However, over the last twelve months I have held meetings with the directors trying to re-establish contact as this is an important part of our remit.

I am pleased to report that at a recent meeting between myself, Mel Hayman and George Edwards, we agreed to re-start meetings with the club’s SLO, the first of which takes place next week.

Whilst we cannot influence the playing side of the football club, Rick Williams, our Secretary, and myself will discuss a number of various topics: amongst them the implications of the Government’s Fan-Led White Paper, communications between the club and the fan base including ticketing and lack of information to supporters.

We will, in time, endeavour to communicate any feedback, as appropriate, to you.

Your membership is important to us and we thank you for your continued support. We are also pleased to represent as many Torquay United fans who wish us to do so and to this end I invite you to contact me on either [email protected] or [email protected] should you have anything you would like to raise or on match days you can find me standing by the corner flag by the Family Stand, opposite the food kiosk, for an hour before every home game. Please come up and have a chat, we value your opinions.

Yours sincerely

Nick Brodrick

JOIN HERE - ‪www.tust.co.uk‬

[TUST_Official]

12th March 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

OH FOR A MARTIN GRITTON LEADING THE LINE

MORE WOE ON THE ROAD AS UNITED LOSE AGAIN

WOMEN’S SIDE TO PLAY AT PLAINMOOR

What a frustrating afternoon at the EBB Stadium where Torquay United were held to a score draw by hosts Aldershot. It was frustrating listening to the live commentary on BBC Radio Devon and excellent summariser, ex-Gull Martin Gritton, who pulled no punches. His assessment of the performance was spot on and you could hear the frustration in his voice as chance after chance went begging.

Whilst a draw stops the run of three defeats, in the club’s current situation only three points are good enough. And you can’t but help feel that had United a fresh forward on the bench to bring on, as Gritton highlighted, the win might have been secured.

We are led to believe that Gary Johnson is still looking to bolster his squad and with De Silva and Crole returning to their parent clubs, QPR and Cardiff City respectively, taking into account the arrival of Kevin Dawson on loan from National North Gloucester City, there’s room for one more loan.

******

Twelve games to go, five at home and seven away but United have scored a miserable eleven goals away from Plainmoor, the joint worst, with Yeovil, in the league.

In Saturday’s match United had a succession of corners but all came to nothing; seems that work needs to be done on set pieces in both penalty areas as the team still leaks goals.

These continue to be worrying times for all the Yellow Army as points and matches slip by; Johnson needs to use all his managerial experience to find safety.

Amazingly, Saturday’s results of other teams in the relegation zone all went in Torquay’s favour so it’s still all to play for.

Sadly, Saturday’s draw was undone with a 3-2 defeat at Solihull Moors on Tuesday despite playing against ten men for the last 20 minutes. This after taking an early lead. Things are looking grim.

******

Congratulations to Aaron Jarvis, who after a slow start, has proven to be a reliable goal scorer with thirteen goals to date, and his efforts have been rewarded with a call-up to the England ‘C’ Squad to face Wales on March 21 at Altrincham. He’s in the provisional squad.

Last season both Ben Wynter and Armani Little played in the corresponding fixture, losing 4-0.

******

Whilst it remains tight at the bottom of the table, the race for the title is proving to be a two horse race. During the week Notts County were surprisingly beaten at home and then snatched a late draw at Bromley on Saturday. Then, in the late kick-off Wrexham dropped two points after a terrible mix-up gifted Maidenhead an equaliser in time added on, scored by ex-Gull Shawn McCoulsky.

******

Based on average attendances a combined League 2 and National League top ten looks like this:

1. Bradford City 17,462 2. Wrexham 9,971 3. Swindon 9,009 4. Stockport 8,646 5. AFC Wimbledon 7,651 6. Leyton Orient 7,555 7. Notts County 7,391 8. Oldham 6,759 9. Chesterfield 6,736 10. Mansfield 6,684.

National League Crowd Watch: Southend lost at home on Friday in front of 7,213, Oldham lost at home watched by 6,382. Bromley, Maidenhead and Yeovil all had bigger crowds than usual thanks to away fans - Notts County, Wrexham and Woking respectively.

In National South Dulwich Hamlet, under new manager Hakan Heyrettin, got back to winning ways with 2,960 in attendance whilst Chester, in National North, looking for promotion had 2,491.

This week let’s look at three matches in Step 5: Bury AFC had a 2-0 win over Northwich Victoria in front of 1,413, in the Wessex League Premier Fareham Town had a 2-2 draw with leaders AFC Porchester watched by 1,107 and 1,070 were at the Cherry Red Combined County’s League Premier South match between Farnham Town and Badshot Lea, the home side winning 2-1. Just shows how important non-league football is to football fans.

******

So, the Southend United saga is resolved, for the time being. For, although owner Ron Martin managed to pay off the debt to HMRC before the winding-up petition in the High Court last week, the Shrimpers Trust remain concerned about the club’s future. This story is destined to run for some time until a new owner steps in. In the meantime, at least the players have been paid up-to-date although a transfer embargo remains in place.

Talking of new owners, this is what apparently has happened at Yeovil Town last week with the SU Glovers Group claiming to have taken over from Scott Priestnall. The new owners consist of former England rugby player Paul Sackey, Matt Uggla and his mother. How all this develops remains to be seen.

******

United’s Women go from strength to strength with another win on the road, this time a 2-0 victory over Warminster Ladies, thanks to goals from Esme Kilburn-Thompson and Tracey Cross, as they go for the title. They are now joint leaders with Bristol Rovers but second on goal difference, however, with a game in hand. So, it’s all to play for in what is proving to be an exciting finish with the team’s final home game being at Plainmoor on Sunday March 19 2pm kick-off. Being Mothering Sunday what better than a family afternoon out!

United’s Under-18s made it seven wins in a row with a 4-0 success over Yeovil Town; prolific scorers Jayden Gilbert (2) and Ben Aldous (2) on target.

******

Those of you who subscribe to BT Sport be aware that in July it’s being re-branded as TNT Sports following a take-over of £600m by Warner Bros Discovery. No doubt re-pricing will swiftly follow.

In answer to last week’s question, yes a good number clearly live stream United’s matches and of course you could get down to Boots & Laces on Tuesday night to watch the National League TV product.

******

Wins are really needed now so here’s fingers crossed the team recorded a rare three points away from home. Getting out of the bottom four remains tantalisingly close every game.

Those of us who are fed up with time wasting, and not seeing 90 minutes of football, will be pleased to learn that FIFA, at a meeting of lawmakers, has ruled that matches from next season will follow the rules laid down in the World Cup. In future time will be added on for injuries, substitutions and celebrations meaning matches are likely to last 100+ minutes. In the World Cup an average of 11minutes 8secs were added. Average ball-in-play time in the World Cup was 60 minutes compared with 55 minutes currently in the Premier League.

What’s your view on this? Not before time? Are referees brave enough to carry it out? Send your thoughts to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

16th March 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

DEAR GARY A HEARTFELT LETTER TO THE MANAGER AND PLAYERS

TEN CUP FINALS AHEAD - CAN UNITED AVOID RELEGATION?

HISTORIC SUNDAY AS UNITED WOMEN PLAY AT PLAINMOOR

Dear Gary,

I write this open letter to you and your playing squad as the recently installed chairman of the supporters’ trust, on behalf of the many faithful who follow Torquay United.

This has not been the season all of us imagined back in August last year and I’m sure you’re as upset as we fans are - scratching our heads wondering where it all went wrong. The time for any inquests is still a little way off as we approach the final ten games of the season.

A return to regional football and the potential of derby fixtures with Taunton Town is surely an incentive to find that magic formula to get us out of this mess. We’ve already tried lower league football as you well know and we would rather not go down that route again. Your better players surely aspire to playing in the Football League not lower league football.

So, on behalf of loyal fans, who attend Plainmoor, and those unable to do so, but still regard the club as ‘their’ club, we back you and the players to find that extra 10%, or whatever it takes, to play for the shirt.

As true fans we are hurting, as I’m sure you must be, and we would like the players to know this is a heartfelt plea. The gutsy performance on Saturday, playing the majority of the game a man short, showed that the players cared and the fans responded - and what player wants a relegation on his cv?

The thought of the loss of national football with the likelihood of three-up, three-down soon as an easier pathway to the EFL and even becoming League 3, is too awful to contemplate if Torquay is not part of the set-up. Relegation could also mean the loss of jobs to club employees.

I am sure you give a lot of thought to all this as you drive home up the M5, as I do after games, but we are all willing you and the players to succeed, after all we are #One Club #One Community.

Good luck from TUST - and true supporters who follow their club through the good and bad times.

Yours sincerely,
Nick Brodrick.

*****

Saturday’s defeat was another blow in the club’s efforts to stay in the National League but credit where credit is due, the ten men, which by the end included three substitutes, ran themselves into the ground showing yes, there is a real determination to rescue the season.

It could have been all so different had Wealdstone’s eventful match winner, Micah Obiero, followed United’s Tom Lapslie for an early bath, after he kicked United’s brave keeper, Mark Halstead, in the face without the referee, Greg Rollason, giving yet another indifferent display, taking any action. It was a shocking piece of play and had it been a rugby match Halstead would have had to go off for a HIA. Those of us sitting in the Family Stand were pretty clear about what happened.

Despite the loss, one glimmer of hope was the performance of ‘unfit’ Kevin Dawson who, certainly after Lapslie’s departure, added steel to the mid-field and, as important, leadership on the pitch, something the team has been lacking during Asa Hall’s lengthy absence - and boy was it good to see him back in the action.

******

There are certainly ten cup finals coming up and these will not be for the faint hearted but one senses the players may have found a new impetus to prove their critics wrong.

It’s no secret that those who follow certain aspects of social media that there has been a growing clamour for a change of manager while in the bigger pond Graham Potter was under even greater scrutiny, even suffering, can you believe it, death threats but his Chelsea owners have stood by him, as have the Torquay directors with Gary Johnson. That faith in Potter has seen three successive victories thus quietening the fans’ clamour for a change. It was noticeable on Saturday how the Plainmoor faithful clapped the players off the pitch despite another home defeat.

With Lapslie now suspended, Hall probably not ready for 90 minutes and Collins injured, why not recall Alex Moyse from his loan at Dorchester Town? He was named as their Player of the Month for February and impressed those who saw him in United’s pre-season friendlies; it’s about time somebody from our youth setup made it into the first team squad.

******

Non-League Crowd Watch: Another Saturday of bigger crowds than many in League 2: Wrexham 9,770, Notts County 7,060 and Chesterfield 6,893. Meanwhile in Southern League Division One South second placed AFC Totton demolished Bideford 8-1, Torquay loanee Lewis Brooks scoring Bideford’s loan goal, while old favourite Scott Rendell netted twice for the home side in front of 1,121.

******

United’s Women’s charge for the title and promotion was put on hold on Sunday as their match was called off due to a waterlogged pitch. But this coming Sunday - Mothering Sunday - their match against Sherborne Ladies is at Plainmoor for the very first time. Is it possible there could be a big crowd? Our friends up the road have set a target - the Exeter City Women’s side on Sunday drew a record attendance of 2,936 at St James Park to see them defeat visitors Portishead 6-0.

Come on Yellow Army the challenge has been set! Kick-off is 2pm and tickets are on sale now.

******

Watching a match that goes into 100+ minutes struck a chord with many readers who are in favour especially if it rids the game of blatant time wasting.

United had no match on Tuesday night so have a full week to prepare for a long trip to Gateshead on Saturday to play a side one place above in the relegation zone, if ever three points were needed it’s from this ‘six pointer’.

******

Many thanks to a significant number who joined TUST over the weekend, it costs less than a cup of coffee a month to join - it doesn’t Costa lot!

Southampton loanee Nico Lawrence was named as the club’s Player of the Month for February.

With ten games left who is likely to be your Player of the Season? Who’s your vote going to? Send your choice to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

Safe journey to the Travel Club and all others making that long trip to Gateshead on Saturday.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

23rd April 2023

TUST STATEMENT

For some time TUST has been monitoring the growing concerns amongst its loyal fan base about the running of the football club.

The TUST board shares the disappointment and concerns of all supporters after Saturday’s result at Altrincham which virtually condemns the club to regional football once again.

We would like to thank the Yellow Army for their loyalty and undying support.

We have, like the Herald Express, BBC Radio Devon and Kevin Foster MP, asked the club for a meeting with the owner Clarke Osborne but all our requests have been turned down.

This season, in particular, has underlined the lack of transparency in the running of the football club with fans’ biggest complaint being lack of communication from the owner and directors.

As the club’s only representative supporters’ group, with new members joining the Trust on a daily basis, we urge Mr Osborne to make a statement about his intentions for the future direction of Torquay United.

There are many unanswered questions - the plans for a new stadium, the Five Year plan, a Fans’ Forum to name but a few - that all Torquay United fans would like to hear answered. But the biggest question is will the club remain full-time in National South?

Supporters who live near and far deserve to know what is happening to our football club.

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

28th April 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

LATE PENALTY HEARTACHE AS UNITED SLIDE TOWARDS NATIONAL SOUTH

OWNER TALKS OF FANS’ PASSION AND COMMITMENT AS GULLS REMAIN FULL-
TIME

UNITED WOMEN TO BE CHAMPIONS ON SUNDAY?

“Their fans are absolutely phenomenal; some of the best fans in the league they’ve got - an example to other clubs. They’re absolutely top drawer.” So said Altrincham manager Phil Parkinson after Saturday’s match talking about the Yellow Army.

Where to begin? After that 90th minute penalty confirmed, barring a miracle of mathematical proportions, Torquay United will be playing regional football next season, once again.

It was a heartbreaking afternoon for the loyal 354 Yellow Army who made the trip, including those who were subsidised by TUST’s donation to the Travel Club, plus many more listening to the radio commentaries or those abroad actually watching the game. That the club is almost certainly relegated is nothing to do with Saturday’s draw but is an accumulation of sub-standard displays over the course of the season barring the recent top half form.

Five wins, one draw and one defeat came about thanks to the more experienced loanees brought into the club. If only these reinforcements had arrived earlier.
With one more match to go, against champions Wrexham, now maybe is not the time to hold an inquest but surely, in the not too distant future, supporters’ concerns have to be addressed by the club’s owner and directors.

Owner Clarke Osborne went a little way to answering supporters by confirming in a statement that the club will remain full-time next season. That was a good start and he did also praise the fans’ passion and commitment but there remain many unanswered questions with TUST asking again for a meeting. Osborne’s Riviera Stadiums
Ltd runs the football operation but what are the plans for the future?

*****

Next season’s fixture list hardly bears thinking about, trips to Bishop’s Stortford, Weston-Super-Mare, Bath City, Chippenham and, of course, Somerset sides Taunton Town and Yeovil Town.

Given the circumstances of the club’s fall - two years ago a penalty kick away from the EFL - to the embarrassing decline into National South, warrants some explanation.
For the manager to say the club’s been there before and returned is surely missing the point. Why are we returning to regional football? It has been telling that in the last seven games only Shaun Donnellan and Aaron Jarvis, of all those signings made back in the summer, have been regulars.

Johnson’s ‘marquee’ signings comment has come back to haunt him as the majority of those who joined have been a big disappointment.

*****

Of those who did, how many were given two year contracts? And consider Jarvis (ex-
Scunthorpe), Brett McGavin (ex-King’s Lynn) and Ryan Hanson (ex-Dover) who will have a second successive relegation on their CV; Jarvis, mind you, will have redeemed himself with his 18 goals and he will clearly be a target for other clubs, after all every manager wants a striker who can score goals.

And how many Players of the Season have moved on the next season in Torquay’s history?

*****

Saturday’s summariser, ex-Gull Steve Woods, spoke a lot of sense during and after the match. He talked about the dejection, the fantastic fans, the poor recruitment and the inevitable question about the manager’s position.

And at his Press Call on Thursday, when asked, Johnson said he hoped to be still at the club in National South. One player who doesn’t deserve to be in a relegated side is fans’ favourite Asa Hall whose two goals on Saturday saw him in both the Non-League Paper and Vanarama’s Team of the Week. Added to Hall’s name could also be Kevin Dawson who gave his all as did Nico Lawrence.

With Torquay’s likely demotion this will be the first time four former Football League clubs - besides United, Yeovil, Scunthorpe and Maidstone - have fallen out of the National League.

Three of these are destined for National South which will mean a South team will have to move into National North.

*****

Non-League Crowd Watch: Not surprisingly 10,126 were in the Racecourse to see Wrexham receive the National League champions cup, 5,779 were at York as they drew with Aldershot and 4,016 watched Yeovil’s last home game.

Champions of the Isthmian South Central, Basingstoke Town, started their return up the leagues in front of 1,577 while Tim Sills’ Wimborne Town grabbed the last play-off place in Southern League Division South with a 1-1 home draw with Bideford watched by 1,044, a new club record.

*****

Yeovil Town’s long suffering support not only has to contend with dropping into regional football but also there were rumours over the weekend that the club could go into administration. There has for some time been a power battle between the current owner, Scott Priestnall, and at least two other interested parties. It is always disappointing when owners and supporters fall out, in most cases due to lack of regular communication.

*****

A few weeks ago it was looking as if National League footballers could go on strike as they reacted to the proposed updated player contracts which changed the current rules about sick pay should they be injured long term.

Last week the FA made amendments to the standard Non-League Player Contract to try to address the players’ concerns. This has come about as a result of discussions and consultations with interested parties, including the group of National League captains. It appears the situation is now resolved.

*****

So, the big match is fast approaching - yes, the Women’s final league match on Sunday against Royal Wootton Bassett Ladies when three points will secure the title and promotion. This game is being played at Liverton FC with a 2pm kick-off.

Meanwhile the Under-18s suffered their second successive defeat, this time 1-0 at Bath City.

*****

Best signing? It was close but the majority agreed it was Nico Lawrence who is clearly destined for greater football success.

Are you looking forward with excitement and anticipation for next season?
Send your reply to:
[email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

Promises to be a large, noisy crowd on Saturday. One last hurrah before the summer break.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

TUST - PROUD SPONSORS OF THE TORQUAY UNITED WOMEN


TUST is pleased to have sponsored Torquay United Women as they celebrate winning the title and promotion from the Women’s South-West Football League following a 1-0 victory over Royal Wootton Bassett Ladies on Sunday at Liverton FC.

TUST congratulates manager Steve Elswood, his staff and Assistant Manager Danni Wyatt on their fully deserved success and wish them every success in the National League with the possibility of two mouth-watering local derbies with Exeter City in prospect.

Congratulations too, to Ocean Latto on being Player of the Season.

[TUST_Official]

5th May 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

A SEASON TO FORGET LITTERED WITH ‘IF ONLY’ REGRETS

UNITED MATCHED CHAMPIONS WREXHAM BUT REVIVAL CAME TOO LATE

UNITED WOMEN ARE CHAMPIONS AND PROMOTED


If only…this current squad had been assembled earlier in the season as its record over the last eight games - won 5, drawn 2, lost 1 - is potential play-off form.
If only…it had, United would have comfortably retained its National League status.
If only… the club had reacted earlier to acknowledge last summer’s recruitment was below the levels required in the National League.
If only…something had been done when United slipped into the bottom four on September 24 last year and have been there ever since.
If only…the four consecutive 2-1 home defeats (Southend, Bromley, Dagenham & Redbridge, Wealdstone) had been draws, as the winning goals came either late or in time added on.
If only…Kieron Evans hadn’t been sent off at Dorking.
If only…Aaron Jarvis’ ‘goal’ on Saturday had been given.

The list could go on but hindsight is a wonderful thing.

*****

On Saturday, on a pleasant Riviera sunny evening, Torquay had to be involved in a miracle of mathematical proportions willing Gateshead to score as many as possible at home to Maidenhead with United needing to defeat the Welsh champions.
In the end Torquay gave it a right go and but for another contentious refereeing decision - the 50-50 challenge when Aaron Jarvis fairly won the ball from Ben Foster, who dropped it, the Gulls might have won. Add in Asa Hall’s header missing the target and the final table could have looked different…if only.
For their part, Gateshead did their best scoring four past the visitors.

*****

In his post match press call manager Gary Johnson confirmed what many of us had suspected when he announced that he, and assistant Aaron Downes, were staying.

This decision has, as to be expected, divided opinion. Even Johnson acknowledges he’s not everyone’s favourite, “love me or hate me, you got me.”
There’s no denying there are many supporters who are hurting and angry at the club returning to National South so soon after ‘escaping’ regional football but the situation is what it is. And after Monday’s play-off finals Truro City and Aveley are added to the fixture list.

*****

Hopefully, those who are currently disillusioned will reflect on events and, when the new season opens in August, will renew their love and loyalty for the club and buy a season ticket with Early Bird prices now available.

To help this feel good factor, Johnson needs to recruit better quality than he has in recent pre-seasons and in his post match comments on Saturday he hinted that he’s keen to retain as many of this re-shaped squad as possible.

Could this include signing Frank Nouble? Nouble Tweeted on Saturday evening,

“Exceptional support, club, staff. Club will be back, no doubt, always a light at the end of the tunnel. What a group!”

Could this include signing Kevin Dawson? He’s become a fan favourite for his 100% commitment and leadership. He also made it into the Vanarama Team of the Week.

The club’s retained list was released on Wednesday revealing a quartet of players with another year to go on their contracts with a number of fans feeling they are lucky to still be in employment but more of this in next week’s column.

Having two wide players, whether these are Collins or Stobbs, should be a priority.

*****

United, of course, won’t be the only full-time club in National South as Yeovil, if they sort out their ownership and manager’s status, should be too alongside Havant & Waterlooville.

Once Mark Halstead saved Paul Mullin’s harshly given penalty, Torquay took heart from this reprieve and not only matched their illustrious opponents but also took the game to them. That Wrexham salvaged a draw does an injustice to the commitment and desire shown by those in yellow and rightly received a standing ovation at the end of the match …but not for the situation
the club finds itself in.

Halstead was not only Man of the Match but also in the Non-League Paper’s Team of the Day. After the game I was able to let him know he is this season’s winner of the coveted TUST Ian Twitchin Trophy awarded to the player with the most appearances.

Wrexham are the first team in domestic league history to reach 111 points, when totals are adjusted to three points for a win. Along with the 107 points achieved by Notts County, the two clubs have accumulated the top two highest points totals in domestic league history.

*****

Non-League Crowd Watch: On the last Saturday of the regular season not surprisingly there were some big attendances, especially those clubs still chasing promotion. Notts County top the list but only drawing in front of 11,336. Chesterfield comfortably claimed third place with 9,105 watching while Southend just missed out on a play-off place with 8,434 inside Roots Hall.

Oldham, whose ‘escape’ from the bottom four has been impressive, had 7,482. United had 4,908, their highest of the season, in ‘sold out’ Plainmoor.

In National North, Kidderminster claimed a play-off place with 3,786 as did Chester in front of 3,528. In National South 3,696 saw St Albans ease into a top seven finish but Dulwich Hamlet went down at home and were relegated losing to Chippenham with 3,334 and hundreds locked out.

The play-off eliminators started this week with the National League final at Wembley on May 13.

*****

The growth of women’s football continues. Consider these figures: Newcastle United’s women’s side play in the 4th tier and their attendances at St James’ Park have been 28,565, 24,092 and 22,134.

Congratulations to United’s Women thanks to a goal on the stroke of half-time from Emma Hunt over Royal Wootton Bassett to give them the league title and promotion to the National League. Manager Steve Elswood and his team have done a fantastic job.

TUST has been pleased to sponsor them.

*****

Hats off to Bobby Wilkinson, who moved from Bracknell Town to manage Weymouth, who were destined to drop out of National South but masterminded their survival by winning their last two games, both away, at Taunton and Dover. When the time comes to replace Johnson, Wilkinson would be a good candidate. His old side nearly made it to National South losing out to Truro.

A mixed reaction to ‘looking forward to next season?’ probably depending on player recruitment. What are your thoughts on buying a season ticket?

Send yours to: [email protected] or

Twitter: @FanszoneT.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

11th May 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

UNITED WOMEN CELEBRATE PROMOTION WITH AWARDS NIGHT

RETAINED LIST RELEASED WITH NEWS OF WELCOMED SIGNINGS

TRIPS DOWN MEMORY LANE AND MORE WOE FOR SOUTHEND?


With the upset of relegation still fresh in the minds of most Torquay United supporters, let’s focus on the club’s successful women’s side who, following their 1-0 victory over the ladies from Royal Wootton Bassett, thanks to a goal from Emma Hunt Young Player of the Season, clinched the title of the Women’s South-West Regional Premier League. Their reward is promotion to the National League.

Having lost their opening match at the start of the season Steve Elswood’s side went unbeaten to pip rivals Bristol Rovers to the championship.
The women’s side has benefitted from greater coverage and support from inside Plainmoor with their kit the same as the men’s to underline the corporate approach. They were also allowed to play at home for the first time with hopefully more Plainmoor appearances to come.

The team celebrated their achievement in the Number 10 restaurant at Plainmoor last week at which Ocean Latto was the Supporters’ Player of the Season while Most Improved went to keeper Emma Ayres. Congratulations too to Sasha Mole for club Player of the Season and Goal of the Season. Golden Boot Winner was Connie Pengelly. Manager’s Player was Rhi Bailey and Players’ Player went to Tracey Cross.

TUST was pleased to be major sponsors of the women this season.

*****

Last Wednesday the promised retained list was announced with very few surprises. There were some who were sorry to see Ali Omar let go, mainly because of his infectious enthusiasm but not possibly for his positional ability.
With maybe the exception of Brett McGavin, who figured occasionally from the bench in the last eight games when the ‘new look’ side played in the manner fans had wanted all season, supporters were not impressed to have confirmation that Hanson, Marshall and Crowe had been given two year contracts last summer. Just because they have contracts doesn’t necessarily mean they will stay.

Another topic that has got fans hot under the collar was the news that last year’s academy players who had been given professional contracts were let go. In particular many feel Alex Moyse has been hard done-by, not having been given a chance as his pre-season displays suggested he could have a future.

Mention is made once again about the successful conveyor belt of talent through Exeter City’s academy which often results in their selling of star pupils for considerable sums. By comparison Torquay’s production line has produced zero players for the first team let alone a £million transfer!

Johnson tells us that recruitment is already under way so a decent signing soon would no doubt help season ticket sales. And, as if on cue, the club announced the big news of four signing new contracts: keeper Mark Halstead, defender Ollie Tomlinson and key mid-fielders Tom Lapslie and Kevin Dawson.

Many clubs have had their Early Bird sales going for some time and as an example Oldham announced over the weekend sales of 3,600. By comparison Torquay keep their figures firmly under wraps.

*****

Play-Off Crowd Watch: Notts County won a thriller over Boreham Wood with 15,617 and Chesterfield pulled in 9,657. Woking’s quest for EFL status came to an end with a 2-1 home defeat to Bromley in an Eliminator in front of 5,033. Elsewhere, in the National South Eliminator Worthing beat Braintree 2-1 watched by 2,678; Warrington Town won the Northern Premier Final 1-0 with 2,550 watching. On Sunday National North and South semi-finals: Chester 4,479, Dartford 3,234 and King’s Lynn 3,002 were the outstanding numbers.

*****

There’s been a great fanfare applauding Wrexham’s and Notts County’s mammoth points tallies but three other clubs have matched them: Brislington won the Toolstation Western League Division 1 with 110 points while Ascot United won the Cherry Red Combined Counties League with 102 points and Plymouth Argyle finished with 101.

*****

The final National League Average attendances for 2022-23:

1. Wrexham 9,973, 2. Notts County 8,303, 3. Chesterfield 7,043, 4. Oldham 6,662, 5. Southend 6,040, 6. York City 4,827, 7. Scunthorpe 3,259, 8. Woking 2,734, 9. Yeovil 2,730, 10. Bromley 2,585, 11. Torquay 2,422.

*****

Down Memory Lane: May 4 1996 United finished bottom of League 2 with only 29 points, Goals For 30, Goals Against 84. But were saved from relegation due to Stevenage’s ground failing to meet the minimum requirements.
May 8 2004 United needed to win at Southend on the last day and Huddersfield not win at Cheltenham for promotion from Division 3. Early goals from Steve Woods and David Graham saw United edge home as Huddersfield drew.
May 9 1987 United’s last day Great Escape with a 2-2 draw against Crewe thanks to Bryn the Police dog.

*****

Saturday’s National League Final at Wembley puts the team who finished second, Notts County, up against the third finisher, Chesterfield, after both clubs won their semi-finals 3-2 after extra time. Both were pulsating watches with late goal dramas, lengthy added times and at Chesterfield play suspended for a drone hovering over the pitch.

With two huge sides in the final, only one can go up and so underlines the case for three-up from the National League - and surely this change has to come soon.

*****

More woe at Southend. Having successfully negotiated a High Court winding-up petition two months ago, the club finds itself back there next week. This will be their 18th petition over the past 25 years the club has been owned by Ron Martin.

The Shrimpers Trust, along with a number of other groups, have said that Martin’s position is untenable. He has recently put the club up for sale. Currently the club is under a transfer embargo stopping them from offering contracts and signing players.

By contrast there’s good news for those following Bury FC. After months of wrangling the Shakers Community and Bury FC Supporters Society have voted to amalgamate.
The motion to adopt Gigg Lane Stadium as the football club’s home playing venue was approved by 97% of the vote.
The motion to adopt Bury Football Club as the playing name was approved by 92%.

*****

Congratulations to our friends up the road as Plymouth Argyle are promoted as champions from League 1 but now we will be four divisions apart.

Seems there are mixed feelings about the club’s season tickets ranging from those who say no we’re not renewing to those who feel the prices are too high for National South. At the end of the day people will have to make up their own minds.

So, which team deserves to go up with Wrexham, Notts County or Chesterfield?
Send your reply
to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

10th June 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

CLUB DIRECTORS APOLOGISE FOR RELEGATION - AT LEEDS UNITED

CAN YOU SPONSOR TORQUAY WOMEN IN THE NATIONAL LEAGUE?

LEWIS COLLINS A REAL PROFESSIONAL JOINS UNITED


“Relegation is painful and we apologise to our fanbase that the performances this season have not seen the club consolidate our status as we had all hoped.”

The above is a statement from the Board of Directors at Leeds United following their return to the Championship after three years in the Premier League.
The statement goes on to say,

“We know things have not been good enough, we know we have to
improve but please be assured that behind the scenes we have worked hard to ensure that the past will not be repeated.”

No football fan enjoys it when their club is relegated but honesty from those in charge goes some way to re-building confidence and loyalty.

*****

Torquay’s Women’s team, following their success as champions of the South-West Regional Women’s Football League - Premier Division, are preparing for life in Tier 4, the National League, South-West Division.

A spokesperson for the club said, “To achieve back-to-back successes over the past two seasons is not the end, we now want to ensure we are competitive in the National League. We’re not in it to make up the numbers and with the strength, belief and heart that’s been built in this special group we are very much looking forward to the challenge.”

The club are now looking for sponsors for such things as travel, player, match day and match ball.

*****

In the very week that the abuse of referee Anthony Taylor and his family at Budapest Airport following the Europa Cup Final was captured on phone footage, the FA announced points deductions in grassroots football for unacceptable behaviour. Most of this is abuse of referees by spectators and team officials.

Clubs will be punished if they commit cumulative incidents of misconduct with points deductions ranging from three to twelve points depending on how many breaches have occurred within twelve months of a team’s first offence.
And on the subject of referees, sixteen of them (including assistants) have been promoted from the National League to Leagues 1 & 2.

*****

Les Sealey, who died of a heart attack aged 43 in 2001, was a well-known ‘cheeky’ goalkeeper who, at one point in his career was on loan at Manchester United.
His son, Joe, has recently unearthed a box of audio cassettes containing his father’s memories which have now been put into a new book, “On Days Like These: The Lost Memoir Of A Goalkeeper.”

One interesting extract gives some insight into the ways of then manager Sir Alex Ferguson. Once Ferguson decided to release a player he never changed his mind. He said, “You can’t go home and worry about the player, what’s happening to them or their wives and families. You’ve made the decision.”
“You’ve made it for two reasons. Firstly, you’ve made it for yourself, because players who aren’t good enough or aren’t motivated enough will get you the sack. But mainly you’ve made it for the sake of the club.”
“It’s a business, football, and if you’re ever a manager Les you remember that.”

*****

Good on Exeter City for telling its fan base about how their season ticket sales are going. Last year they sold 3,100 and so far this year they’ve passed that with a total of 3,220. At Torquay the Early Discount offer has been extended for a further week and you have until Friday to benefit from the frozen prices.

*****

The new National League South season starts on August 5 but as yet there is no indication as to when the fixtures will be released. So far the club has only announced one Pre-Season friendly against Exeter City at Plainmoor on Saturday July 22 with a 3pm kick-off.

Latest signing Lewis Collins bodes well as this top professional impressed the Yellow Army when on loan from Newport County last season. There were many who didn’t expect him to sign believing another League 2 club would be interested so his capture shows the club’s intent to back the manager.

Get in touch at...

[email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

COYY

JOIN HERE - www.tust.co.uk

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

24th June 2023

Fan Zone

HOW DO YOU FILL YOUR SATURDAYS WITHOUT FOOTBALL?

ENGLAND’S CRICKET IN THE ASHES IS BONKERS

RUBBISH CHAMPIONSHIPS IN WESTON-SUPER-MARE. REALLY?

It’s the middle of June, it’s summer and we all have had sunny, muggy days so what’s there to do for the football fan suffering withdrawal symptoms?

How do you fill your Saturdays with no football?

Football finished at the end of April, United’s new squad are yet to start pre-season training and the new season is still weeks away (August 5).

You scour the internet for football stories hoping to come across something interesting; you keep looking at the club’s website, is there another player ‘on board’?

You trawl through Twitter, Facebook and Instagram just in case there’s a story you missed elsewhere.

What about the fans’ forums? United have three but you can tell there’s little news as there’s hardly any traffic with few meaningful posts.

Many go out and buy the Herald Express in the hope that any Torquay related news will keep us satisfied but let’s face it, it’s called the close season for a reason.

So, for many, thank goodness for cricket and this summer it’s the Ashes, that deadly rivalry between England and Australia. And what a time to be watching, for under skipper Ben Stokes England are serving up a feast of attacking cricket, Bazball as it’s called.

*****

The Ashes, by the way, originated in 1892 when a small urn, 4.1 inches tall, made of terracotta was supposed to contain the ashes of a cricket bail presented to the then England captain, Ivo Bligh, on their tour of Australia.

A test match lasts five days so who on earth would declare their first innings on day one? Well, Ben Stokes did which Saturday’s national papers called ‘bonkers’. One pundit summed the decision up like this: “An utterly bonkers but totally brilliant and absolutely in-character declaration from Stokes.”

Going out to attack your opponent makes perfect sense as England’s cricketers have been demonstrating so let’s hope Gary Johnson can install this mantra into his squad to hit the National South from game one.

Recent pictures of the progress of Plainmoor’s pitch renovation show it wouldn’t disgrace a cricket ground.

*****

Summer is a bonkers time too for odd and unusual events and not just village fetes. How about this?

In Weston-Super-Mare at the weekend was the National Refuse Championships. Rubbish you say? No, really.

It’s now into its fourth year with participants from around the UK. The event, on the seafront, involved twenty four teams who race to load wheelie bins with bags of sand before pushing them into bin lorries.

The purpose of the event is to raise money for charity, this year Alzheimer’s with £20,000 the target.

*****

There might be no football but TUST keeps busy. As a board we meet monthly to fulfil our remit to monitor all things Torquay United. Recently two of us represented TUST at the South-West Supporters’ Trust group - a body consisting of trustees from Plymouth Argyle, Exeter City, Bristol City, Swindon Town, Hereford United and Yeovil Town, the only one of its kind in the UK.

This year sees the Exeter City Supporters’ Trust celebrating their 20th Anniversary of ownership of the football club.

*****

Which night of the week to watch Torquay? This was last weeks question. Reader Tony Clark sums up, “ Mondays usually have a Premier League match on TV, Wednesdays often have a Champions League so keep it Tuesdays.” Do you agree?

[email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

COYY

JOIN HERE - [a href="https://www.tust.co.uk/"]www.tust.co.uk[/a]

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

30th June 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

UNITED’S GARY JOHNSON OPENS UP ABOUT HIS PLANS FOR THE SEASON

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF HEADING IN FOOTBALL?

RAINY DAYS AND MONDAYS SO KEEP IT TUESDAYS

Torquay United supporters starved of football news will be delighted to know that manager Gary Johnson, in an in-depth interview in Sunday’s Non-League Paper, has hinted that more signings are on the way.

“Bradley Ash is our only outside signing and he was in the top four or five strikers in National South last year for Weymouth. That’s one down so it’s really just a couple more that we’ve already identified and are negotiating with now.”

In the interview Johnson talked about last season. “We came away disappointed by relegation, obviously, but everything else was really positive.”

He went on, “We’ve got 15 who’ve stayed from last year and nobody has left who we wanted to keep. Even the two lads Lewis (Collins) and Jack (Stobbs) have dropped divisions to sign on permanently.”

On staying on as manager Johnson had this to say, “I’ve never left any club in a worse position than I found it. And when you get players like these, who are loyal and give everything, I think you owe them some loyalty yourself.”

On the season ahead he told the paper, “I’ve watched parts of pretty much every team [in National South on his iPad] and like every year in the National League, it’s got stronger.”

He had this to warn United fans, “I know there’s a lot of people who think we should win every game but it’s not like that. You’ve got to earn your results.”

******

Almost 10,000 fans took part in the Football Supporters’ Association’s National Supporters’ Survey, last carried out in 2017, to give their thoughts on the current state of football before the new season.

88.2% agreed on the need for an independent regulator to ensure clubs are run sustainably.

Just under half of those polled - 46.9% - believed that their club cared about them and their views. Maybe too many treat their fans as customers rather than as supporters. Lack of communication between owners and fans is a common theme.

One in five - 21.7% - said they were attending fewer games because of the cost of living and almost a third - 31.9% - had reduced their matchday spending on food, drink and programmes.

FSA chair Malcolm Clarke said, “Football has said for years it can regulate itself. The findings from our survey show that it has become apparent that it cannot; fans say that independent regulation is required to safeguard the future of our clubs.”

*****

The recent death of former Manchester United and Scotland defender Gordon McQueen from complications of vascular dementia has once again drawn attention to the dangers of heading a football.

Research has discovered that professional footballers are three-and-a-half times more likely to develop a neurological disorder than the rest of the population and five times more likely to develop dementia.

It is a sobering thought that of the eleven players who won the World Cup in 1966 for England, six have died of dementia while a seventh, Sir Bobby Charlton, has the disease.

So, what’s the answer? A couple of years ago the FA limited professional clubs to ten ‘high force’ headers per week in training.

There’s also a move to see dementia acknowledged as an industrial injury which would mean compensation being paid. There is also a group called Head for Change which would like to see heading taken out of football.

One thing is for certain this issue is not going to go away.

*****

The debate about when to play mid-week fixtures continues with reader Richard Privett adding his views: “Keep it Tuesday. Gives players longer recovery time after Saturday and also allows the management team a coaching session. Playing on a Monday is not ideal especially after a Saturday away game.”

It seems pretty conclusive that United fans prefer matches on a Tuesday night.

*****

Last week’s column was about the first Test between England and Australia and that ‘bonkers’ decision of skipper Ben Stokes to declare on the first day. Did that result in England’s defeat?

Seems there is divided opinion on that. But with England one down it’s still all to play for with the second Test started at Lord’s on Wednesday but so far it’s advantage Australia.

Two more players to sign - not including loans - so which positions do you want? Send your view to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

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5th July 2023

FAN ZONE

TUST's Chair, Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

SOME UNITED FANS HAVE GOT SHIRTY OVER THE NEW KIT

FROM YEOVIL TO YORK BUY A CLUB WITH A Y

ALDERSHOT SHOW HOW VALUABLE A FANS FORUM CAN BE

Pre-season training started for Torquay’s players last Thursday when several, as yet unnamed, trialists, specially invited according to manager Gary Johnson, took part.

And this coincided with the club releasing photos and details of the new home and away kits to, being polite, a mixed reaction on social media. Majority opinion feels the home version is straying too far from the club’s traditional yellow and blue but in contrast the away shirt is a winner.

As several fans have voiced, if the team is promoted it won’t matter what kit the team wears.

By contrast Exeter City revealed their new home and away shirts on Sunday and by early evening 949 had already been sold. These shirts come from Newton Abbot company Pro:Direct, as do Torquay’s.

Interesting too, to see that the no sponsorship on the front, as has been the case in recent seasons, having 1899 instead, has been changed. The home shirt now has South Devon College and the away shirt with Torbay Story as sponsors.

*****

Those hoping to see Frank Nouble in a yellow, blue and white shirt had their hopes dashed when he signed for Yeovil.

By the time you are reading this the fixtures for the new National South season will be out. So, it’s an opening day (August 5) away trip to Dover and United will play Truro on Boxing Day (Home) and away on New Year’s Day.

For those thinking United’s second spell in regional football will be an easy ride like last time should think again, for the league is considerably more competitive this time round. For a start there are more full time outfits and many of the clubs have made astute summer signings. Add in the number of 4G pitches United will have to play on and it’s easy to see that this is going to be a challenging season.

*****

A few short months ago Yeovil Town were in disarray on and off the pitch as the waiting-in-the- wings new owners, the Uggla family, mother and son, fronting 394 Sports Ltd, were having a public slanging match, via Twitter, with the manager Mark Cooper.

That association with Yeovil ended almost as swiftly as it had begun with the Ugglas withdrawing. But lo and behold, their desire to own a football club with the letter Y was realised last week when they took control of York City, subject to FA approval. They have acquired a 51% stake in the club.

Matthew Uggla had this to say, “We can really take this club as far as we want to take it. I think the sky is really the limit. It’s just a case of putting the right structures and plans in place to really go for it.”

Let’s wait and see what happens.

*****

The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) is currently urging the Government to implement the Fan-Led Review as set out in the White Paper. Supporters really need to be treated by club owners and directors with greater respect as we are supporters not customers. Communication and transparency are key so hats off to Aldershot Town who recently held a Fans’ Forum.

The evening was divided into three parts, opening with the club chairman providing supporters with an update.

Next came information about the ground redevelopment taking place with representatives of the company carrying out the work answering questions.

And finally manager Tommy Widdrington and his assistant answered supporters’ questions.

For fans who couldn’t make the forum, the club have added a portal on their website for any questions.

*****

It’s back, Crowd Watch! Pre-season crowd watch: Welling Utd v Charlton 2,765, Felixstowe v Ipswich 2,350, Melksham Town v Bristol Rovers 2,014.

*****

The positions most fans would like to see filled to bolster Johnson’s squad are a left back, centre back and a striker although it’s a little concerning when Johnson admitted that he’s already over budget.

Can you help? Many United fans who read this will be sorry to learn that defender Paul Holmes who played over 200 times for Torquay has recently undergone the removal of a tumour in Torbay Hospital. He’s also awaiting tests on his liver and a lymph node.

United fan Helen Chamberlain alerted the Yellow Army on social media asking for donations. The initial target was £1800 but by Sunday evening this had gone past £2000. You can donate by going to: gofundme.com

You can contact this column: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

COYY

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