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Post by rjdgull on Apr 9, 2021 20:07:50 GMT
9th April 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
AN EASTER EGG-CITEMENT AS TWO LATE GOALS GIVE UNITED SIX VALUABLE POINTS TO STAY IN TOUCH AT THE TOP
Yellow Army fans are Happy Easter bunnies after two late goals on Good Friday and Easter Monday foiled Woking and Wrexham and saw the Gulls hunt down six precious points to see them close the gap on the top two, setting up a mouthwatering match at Sutton next Tuesday.
Woking proved to be stubborn opponents but a decisive pass from Adam Randell led to a sublime finish from the returning Danny Wright to seal the win. Whilst on Monday, although United rode their luck, as the hosts came close on several occasions, a 93rd minute strike from Sam Sherring was the icing on the cake as his drive hit the roof of the net to record a most important victory. To be fair Torquay had thirteen attempts on goal with five on target showing that the early season ‘shoot on sight’ is returning at just the right time for the promotion run-in.
The win at The Racecourse was United’s first there for sixteen encounters since the Gulls won 3-2 in February 1988, in fact the last time Torquay secured even a point was March 2017.
With eleven games to go it’s all to play for and, although Benji Kimpioka went off with a hamstring injury not the same leg as kept him sidelined before, we can only hope that the likes of Cameron, Nemane and Whitfield will be available to play some part in the remaining league fixtures and, if necessary, the play-offs.
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Monday was deadline day for the other 64 National League clubs to register their support of Maidstone United and Dorking Wanderers’ call for a vote of ‘no confidence’ in the chairman and board as was announced last week.
Clubs understood they needed 10% of the weighted vote to call an EGM and then 75% of the vote to pass a motion of no confidence.
In the end 25% of clubs across the three divisions lent their support, that’s only 17 out of 66 and that news came after National League chairman Brian Barwick announced he would be stepping down at the end of the season.
So will it happen or should it happen? Is there not a danger that such a move could upset the EFL?
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Next Tuesday night’s opponents, current leaders Sutton United, who have a blank Saturday with their Dover fixture expunged, have confirmed recently that their plastic pitch installed six years ago will be replaced with a hybrid grass surface to meet EFL standards shelling out up to half the £900,000 in future revenue they will receive if they win the National League.
Of course, Harrogate Town had a similar problem last year ripping up their 3G surface and with the work taking ten weeks they had to play a number of ‘home’ fixtures at Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium.
And it’s not just the cost of paying for the new pitch that will concern Sutton but as importantly the need to alter their business model making changes to their daily revenue streams.
Back to the forthcoming match and spotlight on Sutton’s playmaker Harry Beautyman with his eleven goals this season worth 21 points, scoring winners when his side’s either been drawing or losing. Beautyman is in his second spell at the club joining from Stevenage in 2017 with previous teams including Welling, Peterborough and Northampton after joining Sutton the first time in 2011 from Leyton Orient.
Before next week there’s the challenge of Weymouth to overcome on Saturday and since the turn of the year we’ve seen teams come to Plainmoor putting ten men behind the ball making it difficult to break down especially with no Yellow Army in attendance to act as 12th man.
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This column, in the past six months, has brought to your attention the growing demand for research into the connection between heading and dementia.
A landmark study to analyse the dangers of heading is due to start next week with academy (Under 23 and Under 18) and women players from Liverpool and Manchester City spearheading the research through wearing special mouth-guards which measure the forces involved in heading.
Experts have suggested provisional limits of 20 headers per day and at least two days between training sessions. The FA and Premier League now acknowledge that heading is one of the most likely risk factors of an increased dementia risk.
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With 33 points at stake between now and May 29 it’s going to be a roller-coaster ride so are you up for it? So for this week let’s return to ‘Three Word Fun’ - can you put into three words how you feel about United’s run-in? Send your three words to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
Last week the request was for United to follow the rule of six, which they duly obliged with six valuable Easter points.
To all the Yellow Army look after yourselves, hang on to your hats for the journey ahead and, when offered, get your vaccination.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by stefano on Apr 9, 2021 20:34:24 GMT
Good report from Nick as always although I am not on board with talk of players being ready for the play-offs when there is still an automatic promotion spot within reach ⚽️
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Post by rjdgull on Apr 10, 2021 7:58:40 GMT
Good report from Nick as always although I am not on board with talk of players being ready for the play-offs when there is still an automatic promotion spot within reach ⚽️ Always good to have a plan B but like you, think Plan A is still on, in fact both plans involve finishing strongly and being in good form.... |
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Post by rjdgull on Apr 17, 2021 12:00:31 GMT
17th April 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
UNITED SUCCEED AT SUTTON WITH ANOTHER LATE WINNER AS THE TITLE RACE HOTS UP
You only had to look at the players’ reaction at the final whistle on Tuesday to see what victory over rivals Sutton meant to them and to Gary Johnson as he showed his joy to the National Obsession camera when going down the tunnel back to the dressing room.
Yet another telling cross from the ever impressive Adam Randell with the diving figure of Asa Hall giving the Gulls a very deserved precious three points was the culmination of what was a real team performance.
The scene for this top-of-the-table clash was set on the previous Saturday and United’s second half turnaround.
What value do you put on a half-time team talk? Priceless? There was no hint of hairdryers or teacups being thrown, just a few measured words from the Boss into receptive ears, as Gary Johnson revealed after the game all he had to say was,” You’ve got fifteen minutes to get the first goal.”
And who duly obliged but Jake Andrews almost to the minute, making the National League Team of the Day for the second time in recent weeks, with a rasping 25 yard thunderbolt into the bottom corner.
Johnson also praised the spirit of the side which defender Joe Lewis had earlier underlined in his interview as part of the pre-match streaming entertainment when he explained what a tight knit group he has joined with every player bonding with their team mates. Andrews equaliser against a resilient Weymouth was certainly the fillip needed to drive the Gulls on - but you can’t help but think that a partisan Yellow Army inside Plainmoor would have raised the players before his goal.
Still, Saturday’s second half performance would have had armchair viewers on the edge of their seats as yet another late goal - a great thumping header from Connor Lemonheigh- Evans who normally would have taken the corner rather than Andrews who supplied the pin-point cross.
Just shows the fine margins, especially at this crucial stage of the season, between winning, drawing and losing. And, as mentioned last week, the players have continued to up their shooting with twelve attempts, ten on target on the Weymouth goal.
With 18 points from the last seven matches United are now showing a welcome return to the style of football that wowed everyone in the first three months of the season.
On Saturday Torquay have a blank ‘Macclesfield’ weekend leaving just nine matches to play - it’s going to be a nail biting six weeks ahead!
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With a number of restrictions lifted from this week- having a haircut and then celebrating it in a pub garden high on a number of people’s lists - it’s maybe not surprising there is continuing talk about fans getting back into stadiums with a number of trial events coming up.
The FA and EFL have joined the UK’s leading sports bodies in backing the use of ‘vaccine passports’. “ All of our sports can see the benefit that a Covid certification process offers in getting more fans safely back to their sport as quickly as possible,” said a spokesman. But is this actually the answer when you consider how many millions have had at least one vaccination and from June 21 all restrictions, according to the roadmap, are lifted?
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TUST sends its condolences to the family and friends of Yeovil Town skipper Lee Collins whose life ended in such tragic circumstances before Easter. Football supporters of any club are very much part of a thriving community and although we may not know each other closely we share a common bond enjoying the banter and companionship that meeting on match days brings. Lockdown hasn’t been easy for many and as a nation we are more aware of people’s mental health so organisations, such as the Samaritans, who can be contacted on 116 123, are there to help and support.
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So, the National League are looking for a new chairman, as well as replacing three board members, after Brian Barwick announced he would be stepping down at the end of the season, a decision he had apparently made back in February and unconnected with the current clamour for a vote of no confidence at an EGM.
Whatever the rights and wrongs it’s been pretty clear that the League’s handling of the impact of Covid, the allocation of grants and the curtailment of this and last season for the majority of NL clubs has been criticised.
Now is the time for a re-set and re-think about how the NL operates. As Maidstone United’s chairman says,”Communication channels between the leadership and clubs needs to be looked at … this is the time to instigate some constructive dialogue about the future governance.”
One change gaining momentum is to allow Step 2 clubs more voting rights, at present they get four votes per division while teams in the top division have a vote each.
And regarding a new chairman, a possible contender is current vice-chairman Jack Pearce who runs Bognor Regis.
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Best answer for last week’s ‘Three Word Fun’, ‘Gulls Flying High’. In his interview Joe Lewis said he’d taught himself cooking as a lockdown hobby. So what hobby have you taken up that you intend to continue?
Send your answer, the more interesting the better, to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet to publish in next week’s column.
In the meantime ‘Come On You Yellows’ and to all the Yellow Army, when offered, get your vaccination.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by rjdgull on Apr 24, 2021 7:46:36 GMT
23rd April 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
EIGHT CUP FINALS TO GO SAYS TORQUAY’S MR MOTIVATOR
Despite having a blank ‘Macclesfield’ Saturday Torquay sit top of the current National League form table, with fIve wins on the spin and only conceding two goals in the last eight outings. No wonder manager Gary Johnson was full of praise for his young centre-back pairing of Sam Sherring and Joe Lewis for ‘mothering’ the goal in last week’s edition of ‘Inside Plainmoor’.
After the mid-week heroics at Gander Green Lane - what an outstanding team performance - it was not a weekend off for Johnson, his brother Pete, Aaron Downes or Louie Birkenshaw as they were all tasked with live streaming matches involving teams still to play. So it was pretty certain games watched must have included Chesterfield 1 Bromley 2, Notts County 0 Eastleigh 1, Stockport 2 Maidenhead 2 and next Tuesday’s opponents Woking 0 Wrexham 4.
Woking had lost their last three home fixtures conceding four each time before Tuesday night when the hosts had almost a whole side out injured. Sound familiar? Thanks to two defensive howlers in the space of a minute United eased into a 2-0 lead and despite an indifferent second half held on to three precious points.
Unfortunately, the talking points after the game revolved around missing players and new injury concerns which the manager, uncharacteristically elaborated upon later in the week. Has Nemane really broken his leg in a gym accident? Are there yet more hamstring injuries? Saturday’s team sheet to face Notts County will be telling.
Although there was a mid-season wobble with loss of form, caused as much by cruel injuries as anything, and there were some fans questioning the management, there’s no doubting the value of Gary Johnson’s lengthy experience and football knowledge, for he’s the master in getting the best out of his players who undoubtedly, to a man, would run through the proverbial brick wall for him. His man management and motivational tactics are second to none. Torquay United are lucky to have him and as the Yellow Army will testify, our club, nowhere near being one of the ‘Big Six’, is, thankfully, a proper football club with genuine, loyal supporters.
Anyway, as the manager says let’s not get carried away as nothing has been won yet and there are another eight cup finals to go.
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Last week Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaar announced that the reason for their poor home form is down to their red shirts clashing with red banners around Old Trafford - the players complained they could not see each other properly!
So, over the years what other excuses have there been for losing football matches? When manager of Real Madrid, Jose Mourinho blamed the lack of ball boys in the second half of a defeat to Barcelona.
Ukraine blamed their 4-0 defeat by Spain in the 2006 World Cup on noisy frogs keeping them awake while back in 1996 Manchester United, again but this time under Alex Ferguson, blamed their grey away kit at Southampton, ordering the team to change at half-time. They still lost - 6-3!
The 1989 First Division title showdown, whoever won would win the league, between Liverpool and Arsenal saw Liverpool’s Alan Hansen blaming their 2-0 defeat on the fact the match was played on a Friday and not a Saturday.
Rolling Stone Mick Jagger was seen as a jinx by Brazil for supporting them as he witnessed Germany’s 7-1 World Cup rout.
And finally, Sutton United striker Adrian Bradnam blamed missing an open goal because of too much crowd noise- oh to have some now!
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Tales from the Family Stand: many thanks to fellow Family Stander Chris Pascoe (aka crispygull) who pointed us in the direction of his autobiography- The Frank Worthington Story, One Hump or Two? Football fans of a certain generation will remember one of England’s great mavericks who sadly died last month and whose funeral took place last Friday. Worthington was a flamboyant character on and off the pitch. In a Q&A session for Shoot magazine, he listed amongst his clubs, Stringfellows, The Playboy and, oh yes, Huddersfield and Leicester. His most dangerous opponent? The taxman.
Anyway, back to his book. Worthington tells the story of spending summers in Torbay when he would work on the paddle boats and he recalls one particular summer in 1965 when he spotted Manchester City’s Mike Summerbee and his wife.
And according to a Yellow Army fan a friend of his claims he and some friends were playing a kick-about football game in Ellacombe Park when both Worthington and Summerbee asked to join in!
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Last week we asked about any lockdown hobbies you’ve taken up, there’s been a few interesting choices but we’ll run this into another week. Send your lockdown hobby, the most unusual the better to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
To all the Yellow Army stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination. Come On You Yellows.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by rjdgull on Apr 26, 2021 21:04:19 GMT
26th April 2021
FAN-LED REVIEW OF FOOTBALL
The TUST board have written the following letter to our three local MPs and have arranged a meeting with Kevin Foster.
We are writing to you on behalf of the Torquay United Supporters’ Trust.
As many of our supporter base are drawn from your constituency, we wanted to contact you to urge you to support two significant recent developments:
Firstly, we ask you to give your full and complete backing to the proposed Fan-Led Review as announced by the Rt. Hon. Oliver Dowden, MP on April 19 2021 - the review formed part of the manifesto you campaigned for election on in December 2019.
Secondly, we urge you to support Early Day Motion 1765 raised on April 22 2021 by Ian Mearns, MP, setting a framework which we, as fans, feel is crucial to shaping the Fan-Led Review.
Reform in football is long overdue and desperately needed throughout the football pyramid and the recent plan for a European Super League has highlighted this need.
Torquay United, like all football clubs, plays a vital role in our community and it is the fans in this community who should be able to play a part in how the club is run - this feeling is felt by all fans of every club across the country.
For without fans, football is nothing.
We hope that under Tracey Crouch’s leadership this Fan-Led Review will lead to significant and lasting change in the way football is run, with the introduction of an independent regulator and with fans at the heart of any future governance.
Whilst a good number of supporters’ trusts have an excellent working relationship with their club’s ownership, sadly this is not the case for many others and TUST falls into this category, having, at best, a very “at arms’ length” relationship with Plainmoor’s current owner.
Football clubs should embrace the communities that they represent - the same communities you represent.
Football belongs to the fans.
Your support to get behind the Fan-Led Review and EDM 1765 would be gratefully appreciated.
The Football Supporters' Association have today welcomed TUST's offer to contribute to the fan-led review.
COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING
Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm
Your opportunity to discuss the review and other matters affecting our club and the wider footballing world.
Details to follow - save the date!
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Post by rjdgull on Apr 30, 2021 13:29:45 GMT
FANS’ ZONE - HERALD EXPRESS / FORUM EDITION
FRIDAY APRIL 30 2021
APRIL SHOWERS UNITED WITH AN UNBEATEN MONTH DROPPING ONLY TWO POINTS FROM A POSSIBLE TWENTY-ONE TO RECLAIM TOP SPOT
By Nick Brodrick
Torquay United’s recent matches against Woking and Notts County have brought into the spotlight two troubling issues. Firstly, now that the FA Council has finally endorsed the end of the Step 2 season confirming there’s no promotion into or relegation from the National League, clubs like Woking, who the Gulls beat 2-0 last week have no fear as their Premier place is secured for next season, whilst Saturday’s visitors still had everything to play for in their attempt to grab a play-off place. The difference between the two matches was clear to see.Woking manager Alan Dowson, already not endearing himself to Gary Johnson with his pre-match remarks about trying to do Sutton a favour, also admitted that had there still been the threat of relegation he would have been signing better quality players rather than playing youngsters.
The second big issue is about injuries - this is a current recurring topic on the various Torquay fans’ forums. For good reasons Johnson’s usual policy is to say very little but last week he was surprisingly more forthcoming providing the Nottingham media with stories to give Notts County a possible psychological boost. United know all about having virtually a whole team of first choice players out at the same time earlier in the year and Woking last week were missing a similar number.
In the recent Yellow Army podcast Gary Johnson was under no illusion as to who to blame, although he wouldn’t actually name them, but we can guess he was referring to the National League’s relentless fixture planning with teams playing three matches a week on a regular basis. Factor in travelling hundreds of miles to away games as well and it’s easy to see how players are suffering from muscle injuries having minimum recovery time.
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Whether he intended to or not ex-Gull Mark Ellis figured in two key moments on Saturday. Early in the second half he popped up to score what looked like a match winning second goal for Notts County then, after having had a pretty easy afternoon at the back, he had a physical Josh Umerah sent on to challenge him.
Ellis knew he had a handful to contend with and following the second of two clashes between the pair, the referee, after consulting his nearest linesman, gave Umerah his second yellow. The circumstances of the two cards appears unusual and on the face of it he was unlucky to be sent off; it was the sort of decision that can then get managers into trouble in post match interviews and Johnson wisely kept his real feelings and opinion to himself - a model of restraint!
In almost all of the player interviews broadcast on the pre-match streaming service, player after player has praised the squad’s genuine togetherness and team sprit and this was epitomised as Torquay salvaged a late, late draw with Ben Wynter’s 98th minute lifeline thanks to the very same linesman who was in the right place to signal the ball had crossed the line.
And that brings us back to Mark Ellis, but for his lengthy treatments there most likely wouldn’t have been a 98th minute! As a result the Gulls returned to the top of the table, albeit on goal difference, to face, on Tuesday night, an Aldershot Town side clinging on to the hope of a play-off place.
Following Saturday’s late, late show who could have predicted more late drama? A penalty given in the first minute of added time when visiting keeper Walker wiped out Lemonheigh-Evans which surely would have been a red card, only for the referee to change his mind after consulting his linesman. Justice was served in the 97th minute with Scott Boden’s deft glancing header from another pin-point cross from the outstanding Adam Rendell. Had the Yellow Army been inside Plainmoor the chant would certainly be “Gary Johnson’s Yellow Army.” His team’s never-say-die spirit is truly amazing. What a boost it would be for the manager if he had a few more to pick a team from with Eastleigh on Saturday followed swiftly by a trip to Chesterfield on Bank Holiday Monday… we can only hope. And to be fair it’s been a pretty good April for Gary Johnson as he’s got the best out of those players available to him, unbeaten with nineteen points from a possible twenty-one. That’s what an experienced manager gives a team.
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Last week the football world was shaken by the news of the creation of a European Super League which quickly turned to anger with football fans venting their strong feelings. The Government quickly announced the setting up of a 2019 manifesto promise for a Fan-Led Review of football’s governance with wide ranging terms of reference under the chairmanship of an ex-Sports Minister, Tracey Crouch. With the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) urging supporters’ trusts to contact their local MPs, TUST has done just that sending letters to Kevin Foster, Anthony Mangnall and Anne-Marie Morris. Reform in football is long overdue and desperately needed throughout the football pyramid. And, as TUST was quoted in Sunday’s Non-League Paper, “ Football exists for fans - without them it’s nothing!” “We endorse the fact that at last fans’ opinions are to be heard and taken into account.” Since then the FSA have welcomed TUST’s offer to contribute to the Review.
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Cooking, cycling, DIY were all popular hobbies taken up during lockdowns but probably the one which had the most votes was walking.
There might only be seven league matches left - we’re not going to mention play-offs just yet - and some in the Yellow Army are beginning to think about their Player of the Season.
So, who is in the running for POTS? Send your name to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
As always stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination. COYY.
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Post by rjdgull on May 5, 2021 17:24:10 GMT
5th May 2021 JOIN THE SENIOR REDS FOR A CHAT WITH NICHO! With apologies for the short notice, we have received an invitation from the Senior Reds at Exeter City for any Senior Gulls (over 55s) to join a Zoom chat with Kevin Nicholson on Thursday 6th May at 12pm. Here are the details for this event being hosted by the Senior Reds: Time: May 6, 2021 12:00 PM London Join Zoom Meeting us06web.zoom.us/j/87131020484?pwd=VTJqOEpoVkFzUVcvdlJCdUVyRllMUT09Meeting ID: 871 3102 0484 Passcode: 639234 COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm Your opportunity to discuss the review and other matters affecting our club and the wider footballing world. Details to follow - save the date! |
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Post by rjdgull on May 7, 2021 16:20:10 GMT
7th May 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
BANK HOLIDAY BONANZA AS UNITED’S LONG STANDING UNWANTED RECORDS ARE SMASHED TO KEEP THE GULLS NUMBER ONE
Over the weekend the Daily Mail reported that figures from TripAdvisor confirmed that the English Riviera is all the rage once more as they show searches for Torquay leaping ahead of all UK rivals.
Yellow Army fans could be forgiven if they thought this referred to the football club, which it could easily have done bearing in mind its scintillating form, but of course it rightly means Torbay is seen as an attractive holiday destination as businesses start to re-open. Surely a successful football team and its town should go hand-in-hand.
MayDay magic - what a sensational Bank Holiday weekend as Torquay secured six important points scoring some outstanding goals - particularly two cracking left foot thunderbolts from often under-rated Billy Waters - to retain top spot in the National League. If anyone deserved these it was Waters for his relentless running and harrying of defenders.
MayDay voodoo - records? Records are there to be broken and two were smashed over this Bank Holiday weekend. Before Saturday’s match United’s record against Eastleigh for the last nine fixtures between the two sides was lost eight, drawn one. Could the Gulls surpass this and break another unenviable record at Chesterfield on Monday? For in twenty one League visits to Derbyshire over a 50 year period, the Gulls had never won - well not until this week.
Gary Johnson’s experience and player management is there to be seen match after match, and it’s no fluke that his team, his players have edged Torquay closer to a hopeful return to the promised land of the EFL, helped by a wonderful run of eight wins and one draw from the last nine.
Credit where credit is due, Saturday’s emphatic 3-1 win over Eastleigh was a great all-round performance from every player from start to finish. But the way United play comes from the manager who sets the positive tone. It’s not just the winning but the manner in which these three points are achieved.
And, still without a number of key players and following a long, overnight journey, the Gulls played on the front foot from the off at Chesterfield on Monday. Their rewards? Well, besides staying top, close rivals Hartlepool lost at this Saturday’s opponents Bromley but the really big boost was Sutton slipping to a late defeat at Notts County thanks to ex-Gull Mark Ellis winning a stoppage time penalty.
United’s destiny is now in its own hands.
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In a recent meeting with a club official TUST asked if there are any plans to continue live streaming after this season, as it has been such a success notably for exiles, but it appears there are none at the moment.
So news coming out of Home Park last week was of interest as Plymouth Argyle announced they are to introduce their own streaming service for the Green Army for next season. Currently, the majority of EFL clubs use iFollow but Argyle are to produce “a cutting edge website.”
Live streaming for all football clubs promises to be an important source of income for clubs in the future, even after Covid-19. Head of Argyle marketing Jamie Yablsey said, “This is a really exciting development for the club as this project allows us to produce our own digital solution, controlled by us, designed specifically for Argyle supporters.”
Sounds an exciting concept and one the Yellow Army would love to see at Plainmoor next season.
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Last week Trust Oldham - Oldham Athletic’s supporters’ trust - became the latest trust to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with their football club. MoUs help to formalise the relationship between a fan group and their club, setting out key terms of reference for how the club engages with its supporters on a formal basis. The MoU, particularly in these fragile times with a fan-led review taking evidence following the Government’s recent terms of reference, could be seen as a method of ensuring there’s a regular dialogue between a club and its fanbase.
As a reminder, TUST, following meetings and discussions at the time, presented the club with a legally drawn up draft MoU on June 27 2018.
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Four cup finals to go but thankfully none of those are on Tuesday nights, just four Saturdays with the prospect of fans being inside Plainmoor on Saturday May 22. The final League match on May 29 at Altincham, like all the other NL fixtures, kicks-off at 12.30pm.
Who’s your likely candidate for POTS? Responses from last week vary between Asa Hall, Sam Sherring and Adam Randell- to name the three most popular.
So who would you vote for? Send your name to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
These are exciting times for the Yellow Army, stay safe, and, when offered, get your vaccination.
COYY - ‘Gary Johnson’s Yellow Army’.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING
Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm
Your opportunity to discuss the review and other matters affecting our club and the wider footballing world.
Details to follow - save the date!
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Post by rjdgull on May 14, 2021 19:02:09 GMT
14th May 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
KEEP CALM AND GARY ON - TRUST IN THE MANAGER OF THE MONTH WITH THREE CUP FINALS TO PLAY
Fine margins 1: inside two minutes, Bromley keeper Mark Cousins strays off his line and quick as a flash Scott Boden lobs him, not dissimilar to his deft shot at Woking a few weeks earlier, only for the ball to hit the inside of the far upright and then be cleared to safety.
Fine margins 2: minutes into added time - ‘Gary time’ - Benji Kimpioka can make himself a hero as he’s engineered himself into a one-on-one with the keeper but Mark Cousins spreads himself to make a courageous save. And who was the National League keeper of the day? Cousins.
The chances go, the game ends goal-less and Bromley do a job. Nobody said promotion was going to be easy and the Yellow Army are still right behind the manager and players as it’s now down to three cup finals with the promised land tantalisingly close.
Let’s just look at some recent stats: In United’s last three games shots on target 18, off target 14, goals scored 5. 39 league games played, 16 clean sheets. Torquay have scored 22 goals from set plays conceding 12.
This is a time for everyone, manager, players, supporters to ‘hold your nerve’ as there are crucial points to play for - starting again on Sunday at Stockport. It’s certainly been a memorable April and no wonder the manager has been awarded what he prefers to call the ‘Club of the Month’ trophy - no doubt to deflect from the often cursed ‘Manager of the Month’ award!
The Gulls came out of the weekend top of the table by two points but with close rivals Sutton beating Woking 3-2 on Tuesday night, the positions were reversed and as Sutton now hold a one point advantage it’s theirs to lose. But there’s plenty of football to play and anything can still happen. Most Gulls’ fans will be hoping Maidenhead can do us a favour on Saturday.
There’s much talk about the ‘integrity of the league’ with Covid issues being used as a convenient cover. For example, because the National League suspended relegation to North and South this has had a knock-on effect.
Firstly, it appears to have changed the course of the season for teams like Wealdstone and Woking. If you look at their results from the middle of March it makes for sorry reading:
Wealdstone P 14, W 1, D 1, L 12, Goals For 10, Goals Against 41
Woking P 16, W 1, L 15, Goals For 15, Goals Against 37
For teams still to play them, it seems a guaranteed three points and a boost for their goal difference. Surely, this can’t be right and severely affects the league’s ‘integrity’.
And now secondly, the two relegated League 2 sides, Grimsby and Southend feel their relegation isn’t fair as a result and have, accordingly, lodged a proposal with the EFL.
United boss Gary Johnson had this to say,” Everybody looks after their own interests as much as they can but it comes down to what the rules say. You can’t suddenly change.”
“ The National League has got two teams that go up, League 2 has got two teams that come down. And that’s it. There’s not been a World War. Everybody has had to cope with Covid whether you’ve got promoted or relegated.”
“ The National League is the lowest league where 99 per cent of teams are full-time. I’ve always said we should be part of the EFL but of course there should be promotion and relegation.”
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So for Torquay it’s on to Stockport County for the next big test on Sunday, once again in front of the BT Sport cameras for a lunch time fixture.
Since 1948 United’s record against Stockport is Won 27, Drawn 18, Lost 21
The last time United lost at Stockport was in League 2 1-0 in October 2006. There’s been a 4-0 FA Cup success at Edgeley Park for the Gulls in December 2009, a 1-1 League 2 draw in November 2010 and most recently a 4-0 triumph in a National League fixture in September 2019 thanks to two own goals and a brace from Jamie Reid.
Of course, if you’re the manager none of this counts for anything as it’s the here and now, the quality of the players and desire.
As Johnson said in last week’s ‘Inside Plainmoor” he’s recruited a group of players with personality, character and desire and, although it’s extra expense, he takes injured players to away matches to keep them involved. All credit to the club for funding this.
With the end in sight the manager is using all his years of experience to ensure he has all the motivational tricks to ensure the players keep their nerve - and the Yellow Army’s too!
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Every Gulls’ fan has their favourite player and no doubt the club will be announcing soon the voting for POTS. In the meantime the responses coming in here to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to
Twitter: @fanszonet indicate it’s going to be close between Asa Hall and Adam Randell with Sam Sherring and Connor Lemonheigh-Evans in the frame. So, who’s your choice, let me know.
Top scorers, in all competitions, are: Asa Hall 13, Connor Lemonheigh-Evans 10, Danny Wright 9, Billy Waters 8, Ben Whitfield 6.
To all the Yellow Army, stay calm, and when offered, get your vaccination and just one more match before fans are allowed back inside Plainmoor.
COYY.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING
Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm
Your opportunity to discuss the review and other matters affecting our club and the wider footballing world.
Details to follow - save the date!
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Post by rjdgull on May 17, 2021 5:29:40 GMT
16th May 2021 TUST EXCLUSIVE! CONSULTATION EVENT WITH THE FSA CHAIR The TUST board are delighted to announce that Malcolm Clarke, Chair of the Football Supporters’ Association and FA Council member, will be joining us on Zoom for a discussion about the fan-led review of football governance. This event will be held on Tuesday 1st June from 6.30pm and will be open to all Gulls supporters (TUST members or not). Join Zoom Meeting here: us02web.zoom.us/j/83615632012?pwd=S243bVF3QTNhVmo5UzJhaUtPWWdBQT09Meeting ID: 836 1563 2012 Passcode: 096328 This is your opportunity to help shape the TUST and FSA’s response to the review. If you have any questions you would like to raise in advance please submit them to tustsecretary@gmail.com by Sunday 30th May. There will also be time for an informal chat about the latest TUFC news on and off the pitch and to celebrate our incredible promotion (or at least look forward to the play-offs!) The Football Supporters' Association have welcomed TUST's offer to contribute to the fan-led review. |
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Post by rjdgull on May 21, 2021 19:16:32 GMT
21st May 2021 FANS' ZONE TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. THAT’S THE TICKET AS THE YELLOW ARMY RETURNS FOR A CRUCIAL HOME GAME Football fans display a wide range of emotions and opinions which make for interesting conversations especially when able to meet up - and that opportunity is less than a day away when the Yellow Army are finally allowed back inside Plainmoor. Assuming, of course, as a non-season ticket holder you were able to buy a ticket after the unprecedented demand last Wednesday. For the unlucky ones at least there’s still the live streaming. With the club not divulging how many are permitted to attend it’ll be of interest to see Saturday’s gate. As a good example of the variety of opinions of fans there are those, after Sunday’s pulsating match against Stockport County, who are resigned to the Gulls being in the play-offs while there are those who believe nothing has been decided yet. As United boss Gary Johnson said after the game, “ The title’s not gone until it’s gone.” The BT Sport cameras served up a lunchtime menu of four goals, chances missed and the number one contender, by Lucas Covolan, for Save of the Season. It was certainly a great advert for National League football and tempting as it is to refer to it being a non-league fixture, these were two sides who, as BT Sport’s Chris Hargreaves rightly said, are both fit for the Football League. Sunday’s Man of the Match Connor Lemonheigh-Evans deserved his award as he was at the heart of all Torquay’s best chances, beating the keeper but not the foot of the post, winning the penalty and a wonder pass with the outside of his boot to create the opportunity for Scott Boden’s second. Although a 2-2 draw was not the result United fans wanted, after dropping two points the previous week, it was, though, a very entertaining and competitive game, with the red card for Aaron Downes being ‘unfortunate’. So, with two cup finals to go to have a chance of automatic promotion the Gulls have to beat Barnet, preferably by a big margin to improve the goal difference, and hope Hartlepool can win at Sutton in next Sunday’s BT Sport clash. Barnet had a narrow 1-0 mid-week defeat at Solihull Moors so Saturday could be a nervy affair! With Ben Whitfield and Kyle Cameron back from injury and getting some minutes under their belt what a boost it would be to see Danny Wright again. *************** Last week the Premier League announced their renewal of their broadcasting deal to run from 2022-2025 with their current TV partners. The Government’s fan-led review is likely to put pressure on football governing bodies and so some see the Premier League trying to get in first as this new contract includes an additional £100m of funding “ available to more than a 1000 clubs in the National League system, women’s and girls’ football, EFL Leagues 1 & 2 and the Football Foundation.” This column brought news of the two relegated League 2 clubs hoping to find a loop-hole to avoid dropping into the National League but one of them, Grimsby Town, have agreed with the EFL not to pursue a proposed rule change and now accept their fate. That would seem to be the end of the matter. *************** When word spread about the creation of a European Super League football fans throughout were horrified and their collective reaction led to the Government implementing a fans-led review, to be chaired by former Sports Minister, Tracey Crouch, into football governance. TUST is looking to be involved in this review but would like to hear the opinions of the Yellow Army. To this end TUST will be holding a Zoom Social on Tuesday June 1 at 6.30pm and joining us will be Malcolm Clarke, Chair of the Football Supporters’ Association and FA Council member. This promises to be a great, once in a lifetime opportunity for TUST members and non-members to join in the debate to shape the response to the review. Your opinions matter and if you have any questions you would like to raise in advance please submit them to tustsecretary@gmail.com Full details of the Zoom Social can be found at: TUST EXCLUSIVE! CONSULTATION EVENT WITH THE FSA CHAIR ***************** This is going to be an anxious week in two Johnson households. Father Gary still bent on promotion while son Lee’s Sunderland take on Lincoln City in the League 1 Play-Off Semi-Finals over two legs but on Wednesday Lincoln triumphed so it’s all on Sunderland tomorrow to over-turn a 2-0 deficit. Let’s hope it’s smiles for both Johnsons come Saturday evening. With the club providing information on how to vote for Player and Young Player of the Season, judging from the responses this column has received, it’s going to be a close run competition. Asa Hall has plenty of support for POTS but don’t rule out Connor Lemonheigh-Evans or even Adam Randell. As for Young player this will also be close, maybe between Randell and Sam Sherring. It’s up to you! At last, on Saturday there’ll be a crowd inside Plainmoor and could the Yellow Army really make a difference and be that 12th man? Gary Johnson is certainly hoping so - make some noise for the boys! As always you can contact me at: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet To all the Yellow Army keep the faith, anything’s still possible and COYY! SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm Your opportunity to discuss the fan-led review and other matters in the footballing world with our special guest, Malcolm Clarke, Chair of the FSA and FA Council member. Join Zoom Meeting us02web.zoom.us/j/83615632012?pwd=S243bVF3QTNhVmo5UzJhaUtPWWdBQT09 |
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Post by rjdgull on May 28, 2021 20:34:39 GMT
28th May 2021 FANS' ZONE TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news. ALL CREDIT TO SUTTON - WORTHY CHAMPIONS AS THE BEES PROVE TO BE TOO IRRITATING BUT THERE IS ANOTHER ROUTE TO THE EFL Congratulations to National League Champions Sutton United for a dream promotion into the EFL or the first time in their 123 year history - and still with one round of matches to play. Go back 48 hours and United fans- the 1561 lucky ones with tickets - were looking forward to not only returning to Plainmoor but more importantly to three points against lowly Barnet. But then, how many teams like Saturday’s visitors come to Torquay and spoil the party? In reality, socially distanced inside such a small ground and masked-up, is not conducive for relentless chanting and vocal support and so it proved and that mythical 12th man never really materialised. If only….. Still, 2-0 ahead, it has to be said against the run of play, and Torquay were doing what was required. But even before the penalty give-away the warning signs had been there as United’s defence seemed to crumble against speedy forwards, the most notable being Adam Randell’s diving header off his own goal-line. With seven shots on target and three off fans would have been forgiven thinking all could be put right but these stats remarkably belong to the visitors so it was no surprise when Barnet’s endeavours were rewarded with an equaliser. And, in truth, nobody would have been shocked had they gone on to win. So, ever the optimists many of the Yellow Army went into Sunday expecting Hartlepool to give Sutton a tough encounter but nothing could have been further from the truth as the visitors never had a look in with the Champions comfortably collecting their title, trophy and medals. As Adam Virgo, BT Sports, said on Sunday, “ Champions by chance? No, by quality.” Sutton can now go ahead with digging up their 3G surface as they have been planning for this eventuality for some time. And, when asked on BT Sport, their chairman did suggest that the work could be done in time without needing to ground share. *************** What next for United? Well, clearly the play-offs to prepare for after this Saturday’s final league fixture at Altrincham. With six dropped points from the last three matches Gary Johnson would want his side to go into the play-off semi-final with some kind of positive momentum. And if his lengthy managerial experience hasn’t been needed from time to time already it’s certainly going to be in the next month as he settles not just the players’ nerves but the Yellow Army’s too. With a potential final not until June 20 that’s a long old time in which to remain mentally sharp. Waiting until then to know if you’re promoted raises other issues too, players need a break, managers, coaching staff need a break before pre- season training starts. Have some sympathy for on-loan Adam Randell, for example, with his final game now hopefully June 20, his Plymouth Argyle colleagues start their pre-season on June 23. Still, he’s young and fit! Add in the date for the first round of League 2 fixtures being August 7 and you can see things are tight. Factor in retained lists and players released and signed and it’s easy to see there are many varied and complicated football decisions ahead. Guess it’s called the business end of the season for a reason! **************** The Government’s fan-led review on football governance is building nicely as Tracey Crouch’s ten person panel was announced over the weekend with former England manager and recently retired Crystal Palace boss, Roy Hodgson, added to the committee who met for the first time on Monday. It has been interesting to note how a number of clubs have begun to make moves to involve their supporters. Take for example Chelsea who have made a move to improve transparency by promising to elect three ‘supporter advisers’. There’s talk, too, about clubs offering a ‘golden share’ along the lines that Brentford do as their trust has a fan director who holds one. And don’t forget there’s still time for the Yellow Army to be involved in having a say as to how football is run by joining the TUST social next Tuesday, June 1 at 6.30pm. Join us to welcome Football Supporters’ Association Chair, Malcolm Clarke who will show us how to be involved and get our opinions across to Tracey Crouch. It promises to be an important evening, find full details at: TUST EXCLUSIVE! CONSULTATION EVENT WITH THE FSA CHAIR *************** Although the visit to Altrincham doesn’t carry the weight it did, nevertheless it is a vital part of the build-up for the play-offs. Back to ‘Three Word Fun’ - can you sum-up in three words the season we’ve all just watched over the past nine months? Send yours to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter: @fanszonet To all the Yellow Army stay safe and with the age groups dropping, when offered, get your vaccination. COYY SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY COMING SOON - OUR NEXT MEMBERS' ZOOM EVENING Tuesday 1st June at 6.30pm Your opportunity to discuss the fan-led review and other matters in the footballing world with our special guest, Malcolm Clarke, Chair of the FSA and FA Council member. Join Zoom Meeting us02web.zoom.us/j/83615632012?pwd=S243bVF3QTNhVmo5UzJhaUtPWWdBQT09 |
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Post by rjdgull on May 30, 2021 13:22:40 GMT
30th May 2021 TUST EXCLUSIVE! CONSULTATION EVENT WITH THE FSA CHAIR Calling all TUFC supporters..... a great chance for you to input into the Government Fan- led review of football governance.(FLR) TUST open meeting this Tuesday, 1st June at 6.30pm. To all supporters (not just TUST members), There has been growing concern over the general governance of football, with many clubs having differing problems. This culminated in the proposed breakaway European Super League by the 'big six' owners.... We are providing a unique early opportunity to become directly informed and involved in contributing to the resulting fan-led review on football governance. The main national supporter representative and FA council member, the Football Supporters Association chairman, Malcolm Clarke, has kindly agreed to talk and then to listen to the TUFC supporter community directly, this Tuesday Ist June from 6.30-8pm. He will also endeavour to answer any questions you may have relating to the above Fan-Led Review. We are of course focussing on the national game, both league and non-league clubs in the football pyramid. Furthermore, we will then be relaying your thoughts directly to Tracey Crouch, who is chairing and will be signing off the final report on the FLR. Everyone's opinion and input will be welcomed. We ask you, if possible, to please submit any questions you wish to raise to our secretary at tustsecretary@gmail.com by Monday at the latest. ALL TUFC SUPPORTERS ARE WELCOME TO JOIN IN Join Zoom Meeting here: us02web.zoom.us/j/83615632012?pwd=S243bVF3QTNhVmo5UzJhaUtPWWdBQT09Meeting ID: 836 1563 2012 Passcode: 096328 Meanwhile, huge congratulations to the manager, players and staff in achieving 2nd place, and let's give all our support to them during the play offs. COYY! The Football Supporters' Association have welcomed TUST's offer to contribute to the fan-led review. |
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 4, 2021 21:16:56 GMT
4th June 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
PLAY OFFS IT IS WITH A ROLLERCOASTER OF EMOTIONS STILL AHEAD. SUPPORTING TORQUAY UNITED WAS NEVER EASY
Was it true? Was the 2020-2021 National League season actually going ahead last October, thanks to Government/National Lottery funding? Yes that it was, was echoed with a big sigh of relief across the football community.
That journey, which now brings us into June, has, for the most part been without fans present but often out of adversity comes something positive, in this case the live streaming provided by member clubs. If you ask any football fan what they’d like to see continue, it’s this but as you read later this may not be possible.
So, at the onset of any new football season, every club and its supporters hopes this is going to be ‘your year’. Pundits stick their necks out to pick their champion and play-off contenders and back in October this column selected the following suggestions:
The Non-League Paper’s Adam Virgo went for Notts County as Champions with his six in the Play-offs being: Boreham Wood, Hartlepool, Solihull Moors, Stockport County, Wrexham and Yeovil.
This column’s modest attempt was Torquay (C), Stockport, Wrexham, Sutton, Boreham Wood, Solihull, FC Halifax.
Finally, Dave Thomas had a go and, as it turned out, his predictions were not far off: Wrexham (C), well maybe not that, but his play-off contenders being: Boreham Wood, Maidenhead, Notts County, Stockport, Sutton, Torquay.
But what do any of us know?
And with the last whistles of the season hardly finished being blown, the manager sacking season began. Wrexham’s Hollywood owners were clearly so unimpressed with not even achieving a play-off place that Dean Keates lost his job. And, a few day’s ago Simon Bassey left Barnet after barely two months.
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As this column mentioned last week we are now in the middle of a two week period to wait before the home semi-final on June 12. That’s a long time to remain positive and focussed and whilst the injury situation regarding key players doesn’t appear to be easing nevertheless these senior pros have a part to play in keeping the younger ones on track. A wily, old manager in Gary Johnson will know that.
At least by Saturday evening we’ll know whether it’s Notts County or Chesterfield.
Perplexing as it seemed, there are clearly reasons why the manager decided to start Kyle Cameron up front at Altrincham on Saturday and maybe there’ll be some clarity when the semi- final team is announced.
Although, quite rightly, there’s a very positive spin coming from the manager’s post match comments these must be concerning times for all those running the club, as there’s been no secret that the club’s sole intention this season is to return to the EFL. And on that hangs a great weight of responsibility.
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The national press was reporting last week that EFL clubs will stop streaming all their matches on the iFollow service next season on the proviso that fans will be permitted to attend matches in significant numbers.
Because of the exceptional circumstances clubs were allowed to stream 3pm fixtures but the traditional blackout is expected to return once clubs are allowed to operate their stadiums at 75 per cent capacity.
There is one positive, because iFollow has been successful, there is no reason to stop streaming games taking place outside the 2.45pm to 5.15pm blackout.
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Back in 2016 long standing supporter Sam Balsdon, with support from TUST, offered to raise funds to provide a roof for the home end disabled supporters’ area in Bristow’s. Setting up a crowdfunding page and putting himself through a number of events, including the Spitzbergen marathon, work was completed that year for the Boxing Day fixture.
Sam turned his attention to putting a roof on Bristow’s away end disabled area at the start of 2019 involving himself in more physical commitment, this time running 122 laps of Plainmoor.
This column is pleased to say that this roof work has now been completed and TUST, on behalf of Sam, would like to thank the club for carrying this important work out whilst Plainmoor has had no fans. Great work motivated by two big causes so many thanks to the club, Sam and his sponsors.
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How would you sum up the season in three words was last week’s challenge. The two best answers for ‘Three Word Fun’? David Beer’s ‘Remarkable, just remarkable’ and Diane Jody’s ‘A rollercoaster ride’ - many thanks to those who contributed.
This week who would you want United to play in the semi-final on June 12, Notts County or Chesterfield and why.
Send your choice to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter: @fanszonet
Let’s all stay positive and hope that those allowed inside Plainmoor on June 12 will be able to make the kind of noise the Yellow Army delivers as a 12th man.
To all the Yellow army stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination. COYY.!
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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