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Post by rjdgull on Jun 5, 2021 18:01:54 GMT
5th June 2021
FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS’ ASSOCIATION CHAIR MALCOLM CLARKE SHARES HIS WISDOM WITH TUST ON THE UPCOMING FAN - LED REVIEW
TUST’s Special Social consultation event took place earlier this week on Zoom and the TUST board was joined not only by a number of members but also by representatives from the trusts at Exeter City, Plymouth Argyle, Yeovil Town and Hereford United.
The meeting was led by the Football Supporters’ Association Chair, Malcolm Clarke, a very experienced football fan who was informative, insightful, constructive and full of useful ideas. He led the meeting through the background to where we are now regarding the Fan-Led Review and how to put forward any views to Tracey Crouch.
Malcolm then kindly answered up to a dozen previously submitted questions sent in by TUST members and his replies to these will help form TUST’s submission to the F-L Review.
The time scale is tight as Crouch is expecting to submit her interim report by the end of July. To help her, there are various network meetings during June which she will be attending. Her final report is due in October.
As Malcolm Clarke said at the meeting, this F-L Review may not be perfect but it offers a big opportunity to do something.
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 7, 2021 20:34:42 GMT
7th June 2021
YELLOW ARMY
YOUR TEAM NEEDS YOU!
We now know our opponents in the play-off semi-final on Saturday and the lucky ones have secured their tickets to be inside Plainmoor for one of the biggest matches in the club’s recent history.
We have seen this past weekend what an impact a noisy, supportive home crowd can have and TUST calls on all those present on Saturday to provide a positive vibe and loud support for our beloved team.
Unfortunately, the crowd at the last home game against Barnet were rather subdued, probably because of nervous tension around the fixture and one couldn’t help feeling this was reflected on the pitch.
We now have the opportunity to get fully behind the team on Saturday and cheer them on to the final at Bristol the following Sunday. A vibrant, positive crowd really can be Gary’s 12th Man.
To help us provide this atmosphere TUST has asked the club to consider the following steps:
Relaxation of the mandatory requirement for face masks.
We have all seen how many fans at games elsewhere have chosen not to wear masks which enables them to offer the all-important vocal support. Our understanding is that there is no statutory requirement to do so at outdoor sporting events as set out in the Government’s guidance for the return of spectators to elite sport and confirmed by the national SAG office. The club and the local Safety Advisory Group have some discretion in the matter. With the low incidence of Covid in Torbay, temperature testing upon entry to the stadium and social distancing within, we would ask the club to consider relaxation of the requirement for masks.
Drum up support
Allow drums and other appropriate instruments in to the stadium.
Pump up the volume!
Play suitably stirring music at high volume in the build up to the game, hiring a louder PA system if necessary. The players use this technique to get themselves fired up for the challenge so why not the crowd?
COME ON YELLOW ARMY – BANNISH ANY NEGATIVITY AND GET BEHIND THE LADS FROM FIRST KICK TO LAST! TOGETHER WE CAN DO THIS!
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 11, 2021 14:00:51 GMT
11th June 2021
WHEN SATURDAY COMES!
When Saturday comes let's raise the roof at Plainmoor!
All those supporters who are fortunate enough to have tickets, we are lucky, this is probably one of the hugest home matches for a number of years. Let's make ourselves count by being Gary's 12th man.
Any one who has played football will know how much of an effect positive support can have on each and every player. Whether the team is on top and driving towards a victory, has fallen behind and is striving to level the score or individuals are struggling, for whatever reason, and maybe making mistakes, your positive encouragement has an effect.
The one thing we have seen this season is a togetherness of our team on the pitch, high energy performances and a never say die spirit, aka 'Gary Time'.
We, the Gulls' supporters, can do the same from the stands and the terraces- be together for the team, maintain a high energy of noise in support and keep positively encouraging players if mistakes are made and never say die!
Let's show what we know the yellow army can do as Gary's 12th man!
COYY
Michel Thomas
Chairman on behalf of TUST
COME ON YELLOW ARMY – BANNISH ANY NEGATIVITY AND GET BEHIND THE LADS FROM FIRST KICK TO LAST! TOGETHER WE CAN DO THIS!
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 11, 2021 21:33:55 GMT
11th 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.
YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT AND VOICE ON SATURDAY.
MAKE SOME NOISE FOR THE BOYS!
Having watched the two play-off eliminators over the weekend, both won 3-2 by the home sides, (a good omen?) what was evident was the vital importance of having home fans inside the two grounds. Their involvement cannot be underestimated.
It was no coincidence that both winning managers, players and pundits underlined the role played by the crowd - literally the 12th man. Or as Gary Johnson has now asked, to be in the team!
And, interestingly at both matches was the absence of face coverings for, to be fair, singing and chanting for ninety minutes plus with a mask is not pleasant. Let’s hope the Yellow Army are able to ‘give it their all.’
So, Notts County will be the visitors for Saturday lunchtime and whilst one player does not make a team, many United fans will have the name Mark Ellis on their lips, for various reasons. Kingsbridge born Ellis made his Gulls’ debut in a 5-2 win at Kidderminster in September 2007 on loan from Bolton Wanderers. Between 2008 and 2012 Ellis scored 12 times in 136 appearances before moving to Carlisle.
Saturday’s semi-final sets up an intriguing test between the two managers. On the one hand there’s United’s vastly experienced Gary Johnson whose various sides over the years have had play-off successes and six promotions.
On the other hand there’s Notts County boss, Ian Burchnall, 38, who began his coaching career at age 22 at the University of Leeds. His managerial and coaching career has, over the past few years, been spent in Scandinavia, most recently, until 2020, as manager of Ostersund taking over from Graham Potter. Burchnall was appointed head coach at Meadow Lane in March this year.
There’s no doubt, then, that Saturday’s match is going the need the Yellow Army at its vocal best. There needs to be a buzz and atmosphere from the moment the first fans step inside Plainmoor, crank up the music, put on records people sing along to and plenty of positive announcements. Pity there’s unlikely to be any pre-match entertainment especially with BT Sport cameras present.
This is the club’s biggest opportunity to get back where we belong - being a 12th or 11th man has never been so important.
Going into the play-offs the number of ex-Football League clubs involved showed they totalled 488 years of EFL experience. It is, of course, now clear that one former Football League club will, after the Final on June 20, be returning to the promised land and of the four contenders it’s interesting to see how long each side has waited: United fell out in 2014, Notts County 2019, Hartlepool 2017 and Stockport County 2011.
It’s all to play for and could Gulls’ boss Gary Johnson have a selection surprise in store?
************
TUST’s Special Social consultation event took place last week on Zoom when the TUST board was joined not only by a number of members but also by representatives from the trusts at Exeter City, Plymouth Argyle, Yeovil Town and Hereford United.
The meeting was led by the Football Supporters’ Association Chair, Malcolm Clarke, a very experienced football fan who was informative, insightful, constructive and full of useful ideas. He led the meeting through the background to where we are now regarding the Fan-Led Review and how to put forward any views to Tracey Crouch.
Malcolm then kindly answered up to a dozen previously submitted questions sent in by TUST members and his replies to these will help form TUST’s submission to the F-L Review.
The time scale is tight as Crouch is expecting to submit her interim report by the end of July. To help her, there are various network meetings during June which she will be attending. Her final report is due in October.
As Malcolm Clarke said at the meeting, this F-L Review may not be perfect but it offers a big opportunity to do something.
*****************
In National League news, it didn’t take long to discover that ex-Barnet manager, Simon Bassey, who quit the Bees after only two months in charge has become First Team coach at Portsmouth under Danny Cowley.
Meanwhile, the winner of May’s Vanarama Volunteer of the Month was none other than match day commentator Ray Duffy; congratulations Ray.
Saturday, then, is a defining day in Torquay United’s recent history and the big opportunity is there to be grasped with the Yellow Army’s support -so make some noise for the boys. Sing your heart out and make that difference.
Sadly, I’m not well enough to be there but I’ll be kicking and heading every ball. COYY!
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 11, 2021 21:39:34 GMT
11th June 2021
GARY JOHNSON SIGNS CONTRACT EXTENSION
TUST commends the club's owner and directors for securing GJ for longer and for the brilliant timing of announcing the news on the eve of such an important fixture.
COME ON YELLOW ARMY – BANNISH ANY NEGATIVITY AND GET BEHIND THE LADS FROM FIRST KICK TO LAST! TOGETHER WE CAN DO THIS!
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 18, 2021 14:32:13 GMT
18th 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.
WHAT A PERFECT DAY AS THE GULLS SWOOP TO BRISTOL FINAL - RETURNING DANNY WRIGHT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
Just 35 seconds is all it took for the returning Danny Wright to send the Gulls to Bristol for Sunday’s National League Play-Off Final. What a brilliant return for Wright, clearly the ace up Gary Johnson’s sleeve, with his two goals at crucial times and for lasting ninety minutes.
So, how can 1709 football fans sound like 5000? Put the Yellow Army inside Plainmoor on a warm, sunny mid-day in June add in happy clappers for all, an inspired idea (maybe copied from Thea Bristow?!), allow in two drummers, ramp up the pre-match music - who doesn’t sing along to ‘Sweet Caroline’ - wear special scarves for loyal season ticket holders - another great gesture from the club - all mixed together with fans giving it their all in noise and passion from start to finish.
There’s no coincidence that the electric afternoon, full of singing and passion, was helped by the ‘relaxation’ of the face covering issues which had been debated over the previous few days.
What an occasion it proved to be and full marks to everyone at the club for organising such a special atmosphere. TUST had spent the week in helping to ‘pump up the volume’ and whilst we take no credit for what the club arranged we feel, on behalf of our loyal members, we helped to prepare for the day.
It was, though, a fantastic 100% response from those 1709 inside the ground. Gary Johnson is a canny, experienced manager who had clearly wanted the week’s build-up to be low key. When asked about the preparations he quipped back, quoting a well known slogan for a popular chocolate bar, telling us about the players ‘work, rest and play’.
He knows how to reduce the tension and pressure with his friendly banter leaving the important stuff to behind closed doors.
Of course, contract talks between club and manager and between manager and players are quite rightly private and confidential. So what a boost, on the eve of this vital semi-final, and what a great piece of timing, as the club announced Gary Johnson’s contract extension - a further two years? - which must have gone down well in the dressing room because it certainly has throughout the Yellow Army.
These are heady times in TQ1 and TUST fully endorses the manager’s extension, we are fortunate to have such an experienced boss who clearly is loving his time at Torquay fully supported behind the scenes.
That he is staying for longer does imply, no matter which League the club may be in next season, that he will continue to have the full backing of owner Clarke Osborne and the other directors George Edwards and Mel Hayman. And thanks to the tireless work of the directors and their staff for all their preparation and efforts on Saturday.
***************
As to the match top picks: the cross from Joe Lewis for Danny Wright’s opener, Adam Randell’s sublime cutback for Wright’s second, Asa Hall, playing a real captain’s role and the BT Sport and the Non-League Paper’s Man of the Match, putting his head where it hurts and then Dean Moxey’s coolly struck penalty. And the manager’s astute use of the subs’ bench.
For those who were there it’ll live long in the memory.
Now it’s on to Bristol to face Hartlepool United whose manager Dave Challinor acknowledged the Gulls have “ individual threats all over the pitch - but it’s a one off game.”
Wonder if we’ll be hearing from Jeff Stelling during the build-up?
And has Johnson got another ace up his sleeve?
With high ticket prices not every fan will be able to get to Bristol so TUST has asking whether the match can be watched on the big screen at Plainmoor or in Boots & Laces.
***********
National League news: Manager of the Season Matt Gray Sutton. Player of the Season Stockport’s John Rooney who won it last year at Barrow. Top Scorer Michael Cheek with 21 for Bromley.
For those who may have missed it, the EGM call for a no confidence vote against the board and chairman Brian Barwick was rejected with only seven of the thirty-three clubs backing the motion which received no support from the National League Premier clubs.
It’s also confirmed that season 2021-2022 will see the same number of clubs currently in the three leagues.
*************
Congratulations to Connor Lemonheigh-Evans on being the Yellow Army’s Player of the Season and to our ‘Torquayfied’ on loan Adam Randell for his much deserved Young Player award. Great choices with perhaps Asa Hall just missing out but he is currently top scorer.
So, it’s on to the final and who can have been failed to be dazzled with Gary Johnson’s vivid yellow 1899 club tie. Surely this is a must for Sunday. Check out the club shop.
Would you buy and wear the club tie at the final, yes or no? Send your reply to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
To all those who have a ticket have a great day out. COYY
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Post by rjdgull on Jun 26, 2021 10:15:56 GMT
26th 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.
CLARKE OSBORNE : "DEFEAT IS JUST A MOMENT , IT WILL NOT HALT THE YELLOW ARMY" - FOLLOWING PENALTY SHOOT - OUT HEARTACHE
In an electric atmosphere the 3,100 Yellow Army sang their hearts out, once again acting as the 11th man, but a penalty shoot-out defeat was a bitter pill to swallow in Sunday’s nail biting play-off final as United now face an eighth season in the National League.
The match was the second outstanding spectacle on the Ashton Gate pitch in 24 hours following Harlequins stunning comeback against hosts Bristol Bears in the Premiership rugby play-off.
What drama unfolded, with Torquay’s chances of moving the game into extra time ebbing away we entered the 95th minute and ‘Gary Time’. Step forward hero Lucas Covalan, waved up for a last ditch Andrews’ corner which was half cleared but slung back in for Covalan to head home and into Gulls’ folklore. Cue wild scenes but that was not the end as ultimately United paid the penalty for not taking more advantage in extra time.
So, to the match talking points and key moments: Two disallowed headed ‘goals’ from Kyle Cameron in each half. You can see an argument for why the first was chalked off from TV replays as Joe Lewis pushed Rhys Oates as the header went in - but as Gary Johnson said afterwards, when isn’t there pushing and shoving in the box - but the second looked a perfectly legitimate header as Cameron once again beat keeper James to the ball.
Then there was the Jake Andrews’ injury delay, with Hartlepool visibly out on their feet at that point maybe they benefitted from the rest to rejuvenate.
Although the format is established, no football fan looks forward to the lottery of a penalty shoot- out. Johnson had talked earlier in the week about their list of takers, in order, but by the time it came to take them some of the original names had been subbed.
Despite Lucas Covalan’s heroics, as the Boss said, “ Missing three is unforgivable.”
With the new season around five weeks’ away there are busy times ahead and with Grimsby and Southend dropping down the National League will have twelve ex-EFL clubs fighting for promotion.
Good luck to Hartlepool on their return to League football - the match was another great advert for the top tier of non-league - but there were some unsavoury crowd scenes as their fans invaded the pitch at the end which spoilt the occasion.
And after the game a nice touch from the club’s directors for going into the dressing room to pick everyone up by thanking them for their efforts throughout the season.
***********
At this point it’s worth putting into context what has happened to Torquay United since the inspired recruitment of Gary Johnson in September 2018 when he saw a 2-0 win at Hungerford Town as the Gulls were at their lowest ebb.
With Clarke Osborne’s financial backing the Gulls went on to be crowned Champions of National South then came a 14th finish in a Covid curtailed campaign.
This season United got off to a flying start but injuries, resulting in a loss of form, slowed progress allowing Sutton to take advantage but hats off to not only the management, who in just three seasons have restored pride in the club, but to the owner who has overseen Torquay to be a professionally run football club.
A timely statement from Clarke Osborne on Monday who said, “ It is one step on our journey that we have delayed until next season, a season where we will give our best, work hard with determination to take that next step to League 2.”
It’s worth reflecting on Johnson’s record: Played 129, Won 71, Drawn 22, Lost 36, Win% 55.0
Many clubs in Torquay’s situation seem to suffer a hangover the following season but Johnson is too canny, experienced and astute a leader to allow this to happen.
Final words from Osborne, “ Defeat is just a moment, it will not halt the Yellow Army.”
This week has seen the release of eight players, no real surprises, followed by the losses of Lucas Covolan to Port Vale and Kyle Cameron to Notts County and maybe a couple more.
On the plus side Gary Johnson has years of experience in building sides and recruiting - let’s hope his couple of tea parties for prospective players went well!
***********
Congratulations to Bournemouth loanee Sam Sherring named in the Vanarama Team of the Season and to Asa Hall and Connor Lemonheigh-Evans for inclusion in the Non-League Paper’s Team of the Season.
For those who may have missed it, Dover Athletic will start season 2021-2022 with minus twelve points as well as their £40,000 fine following the FA rejecting their appeal.
Interesting comments from Argyle boss Ryan Lowe last week, following Adam Randell’s successful loan, “ I think with the relationship I have built up with Gary from manager to manager, we could play games against each other and send kids there on loan.”
************
Now, let’s look forward. The club have given us a season to remember despite loss of income due to Covid, so in return will you be renewing/buying a season ticket?
Send your answer to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter:@fanszonet
To all the Yellow Army stay safe and enjoy the close season.
COYY!
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 3, 2021 11:31:53 GMT
2nd July 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. THE TIME HAS COME FOR THE NATIONAL LEAGUE TO BECOME LEAGUE 3 - GULLS’ BOSS SEEKS CHANGE Whilst for many of the Yellow Army memories remain raw, and probably will do for some time following the events of the play-off final, as in life football moves on. Stand still and you get overtaken as Gulls’ boss Gary Johnson is fully aware. It might be the shortest close season ever - pre-season training starts on July 19 - but there are other events away from Plainmoor taking place which could change the way football is run. Currently the Tracey Crouch Fans-Led Review is in full flow with her team having regular meetings to hear views and case studies from individual non-league clubs’ supporters trusts. TUST has been involved in these meetings contributing to the discussions as this is, as Football Supporters Association (FSA) chair Malcolm Clarke says, “ A big opportunity to do something.” With Crouch’s interim report scheduled for late July time is of the essence. Club governance and ownership together with supporter engagement are high priorities. TUST, like every other club’s supporters’ trusts, want to see how football fans can feel really involved and included, for football clubs are the hub of each community offering fans a focus for their mental health and well being. We hope, with anticipation, that Tracey Crouch’s conclusions will lead to the football pyramid being run in a fairer more proportionate and sustainable way. But this cannot be the end of the debate. The opportunity is here now for the FA to look at the positioning of the National League. Don’t forget that for the coming season the NL will have 12 former Football League teams, collectively combining hundreds of years of FL experience each trying to make a return. So, the time is right for discussion about introducing two automatic places for promotion, plus a third through the play-offs, between the National League and League 2, as the influx of three clubs into League 2 would be refreshing for all. Or why not go the whole way and see the National League become League 3? To this end, earlier in the week, the FSA organised an online straw poll to gauge fans’ opinions. As fans we’re not alone in proposing these changes as Gary Johnson made the same plea in Sunday’s Non-League Paper. ********** Over the years Mrs Johnson must have prepared numerous, delicious afternoon teas but with husband, Gary, dropping tantalising hints last week, let’s hope whatever was served has persuaded one or more of the prospective players to join Torquay United for the coming campaign. For all football fans, imminent signings are a mixture of speculation and anticipation. The retained list contained no real surprises but it was a pity the Yellow Army weren’t able to give Liam Davis a fitting farewell after his long journey to overcome injury. Whilst fans are sorry to lose a favourite player, it clears the way for new recruits. As Johnson says, “ You need to be more competitive year on year to improve the quality of your squad.” TUST is pleased to announce that this year’s winner of the annual Ian Twitchin Trophy is Sam Sherring for his most appearances. Congratulations to our Bournemouth loanee. Well done too, to United’s Under-16 team who, after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out, have been crowned the JPL Under-16 National League Champions defeating Kidderminster in the final. ************* Euros 2020: Italy manager Roberto Mancini spent the entire Italia 90 World Cup on the bench without kicking a ball. In last week’s 1-0 win over Wales, in the 89th minute he brought on his sub keeper so he could be part of the action; in fact, Mancini has used 25 of his 26 man squad. That’s man management! Bognor Regis’ Jack Pearce, who has been on the National League board for the past 16 years, has become the new chairman promising more transparency in their decision making, adding,”We’ve got to make the board more accountable to its member clubs.” Time will tell. Roll on July 7 when the fixtures are released. *************** Following contributions to last week’s poll there’s going to be a good take-up of season tickets being renewed and full details of prices, with some great offers for 2021-2022, are on the club’s website. This week what are your thoughts about the structure of the National League? Should it become League 3? Is it time for increasing the number of automatic promotion places as Gary Johnson is advocating? Send your views to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter: @fanszonet Meanwhile to all the Yellow Army stay safe. COYY *********************************************************************** RETURN TO STADIUMS SURVEY The FSA is conducting a short survey on fans' views about the return to stadiums in 2021/22. Complete the questionnaire here; Survey SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY |
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 11, 2021 14:28:26 GMT
11th July 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.
FANS’ SURVEY SHOWS THERE’S AN APPETITE FOR CHANGES IN THE FOOTBALL PYRAMID
Last week’s lead story in this column - Time has come for National League to become League 3 - featured nationally in Sunday’s Non-League Paper as part of what is likely to be an on-going dialogue about clubs and supporters wanting to revitalise the National League and football in general.
It seems, as a result of national exposure, the ball is rolling on this topic judging by the responses on this column’s Twitter account.
A week ago the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) organised a fans’ straw poll and by the weekend came up with the results: on the question whether the National League should become part of the EFL, 68.9 per cent either agreed somewhat or agreed strongly while 20.7 per cent either disagreed somewhat or disagreed strongly.
The second main question, asking were the NL to become part of the EFL would it be beneficial if they and League 2 formed two regionalised divisions, received 67 per cent either agreeing somewhat or agreeing strongly with 24 per cent disagreeing somewhat or strongly. This version has the attraction of reducing travelling and potentially overnight hotel costs.
At last week’s National League AGM, under new leadership, there was an attempt to show a better relationship between the board and clubs but there’s work to be done.
The headline news was clubs were informed, when discussing the continuing impact of Covid-19, the season will not begin without spectators or suitable grant funding.
Subject to further proposals clubs voted in favour of a salary cap from season 2022-23, probably £900k at Step 1.
Only three teams will be relegated at the end of the season so that the following year the league will revert to twenty four sides. And finally, were the new season not to be completed, contingency plans were being discussed.
***********
Following England’s 4-0 romp in Rome, ‘Football’s Coming Home’ or is it ‘Sweet Caroline’? Both are now favourites, the former more so until a rival came along. Neil Diamond wrote ‘Sweet Caroline’ 52 years ago and for a long time it was believed he did so for President J F Kennedy’s daughter Caroline but Diamond explained recently that whilst writing the lyrics trying to fit a name he saw a magazine with a photo of Caroline and it scanned perfectly.
As we’re all too aware, United adopted using it to great effect recently and hopefully will continue to do so, surprisingly the first time music was routinely played in sporting stadiums was in the 1990s - and one of the first was the Caroline Panthers, an NFL team in North Carolina.
With all eyes on England’s final tonight against Italy, ‘Good times never seemed so good.’
***********
Yellow Army exiles, mostly, cling on to the forlorn hope that live streaming will continue but as spectator restrictions will be lifted from July 19 and, in the light of BT Sport renewing their contract, it’s highly unlikely.
In contrast, the Southern League has signed a ‘multi-year’ deal for its 82 clubs to stream games online allowing clubs to broadcast pay-per-view games live.
With Armani Little and Jake Andrews the latest to sign on the dotted line, adding to those who have already done so, manager Gary Johnson has an established ‘Torquayfied’ group upon which he can build with, we expect, some further additions next week as pre-season training is only 9 days away - the Tea party Two?
**************
TUWFC news: Under manager Grant Fisher, assistant Matt Green and coaches Steve Elswood ( goalkeeping) and Claire Williams (fitness), Torquay United Women have started pre-season training with a number of exciting friendlies against Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion, Yeovil, St Austell and Plymouth Argyle.
The Gulls’ season starts in mid-August in the Women’s FA Cup with their league campaign on September 5 as they target promotion to the FA National League.
************
If you had to choose, is it ‘Football’s coming Home’ or ‘Sweet Caroline’ to sing?
Send your reply to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter:@fanszonet
Whichever it is let’s hope we’re singing one or both after tomorrow’s final - come on England.
Meanwhile to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY.
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 17, 2021 18:26:26 GMT
18th July 2021
FANS' ZONE
ENGLAND’S EURO PENALTY SHOOT - OUT EXIT BRINGS BACK PAINFUL MEMORIES FOR TORQUAY UNITED FANS
After such a Shaw start in the Euro 2020 final, for Torquay United’s loyal fans, England’s penalty heartbreak - again - will have brought back painful memories from Ashton Gate last month.
To be fair, Italy’s second half performance showed why they have been unbeaten for so long and are the best team in Europe. But as Gary Johnson remarked, you can’t miss three penalties.
Penalty shoot-outs - a lottery? Well, yes they certainly seemed so as United went down 5-4 which compounded the still raw feelings about the two disallowed goals. But actually there may be more to taking them that meets the eye.
It may not be of any consolation but for future reference:
The art of penalty shoot-outs has been the subject of studies with an analysis of all shoot-outs in the World Cup and European Championships finding that after players celebrated with both arms extended their team mates who took the next penalty were twice as likely to score.
When players celebrated with both hands, the next opponent to take a penalty was more than twice as likely to miss.
If a player misses, team mates should rush out to meet him and bring him back into the group - don’t let him walk fifty yards alone.
Apparently, timing is crucial too. When players started their run-up less than one second after the referee blew his whistle, the success rate was 58 per cent, but players who took longer than a second scored 80 per cent of the time. To underline the point, England, in the survey, took the least time after the whistle - 0.28 seconds.
Teams who go first in a shoot-out win 60 per cent of the time, sides which go second seem to struggle with the pressure of constantly needing to score to level - or avoid elimination.
So there you are, penalty shoot-outs clinically analysed or still a lottery? Try explaining all that to United’s and England’s penalty misses.
**************
In England’s Euro 2020 journey to the Final, it’s interesting to learn how Gareth Southgate built up such a special team bonding, keeping all players in the squad included and involved. It helps if you can call upon other celebrities to help you.
Pride of place here goes to Ed Sheeran with his morale-boosting acoustic gig while the players had a barbecue. As Kieran Trippier said, “ The best thing about it was Ed was going from one table to another. We were asking him questions …. you know, it brings you together as players.”
And of course, that ‘old favourite - Smithy’ aka James Corden has also been involved through video-calling Declan Rice with his motivational tips!
Might not quite seem the same but in Gary Johnson, United have their own Mr Motivator.
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Last Saturday TUST representatives met with Matt Anthony manager of the Torquay United Inspirations (TUI) and some of his squad at the Paignton Sports Academy hub to officially hand over their new TUST sponsored kits. In the picture above are Robin Causley (vice-chair) on the left, Michel Thomas (chair) in the centre and Rob Burkitt (board member) on the right.
Complete with TUST logo the kit consists of full kit, track suits plus training cones as well as an individual yellow and blue football to help their training at home between organised sessions.
The current TUI squad, of around 30 players with various disabilities, is an integral part of the Torquay United Community Sports Trust who organise the training sessions, managing their matches, 7-a-side with at least A and B teams against other disability teams in the South West, not only involving Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City but also teams from Somerset and Bristol.
It’s good to know that many of these players, along with their friends, will once again soon be able to watch the Gulls at Plainmoor.
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The days are now slipping away before pre-season training starts on Monday with the first friendly at Poole Town just over a week away.
With ‘The Three Lions’ back in the Top Ten, it’s looking like a draw between it and ‘Sweet Caroline’ for the nation’s sing along.
Altrincham are urging the National League to allow live streaming despite crowds being back in stadiums. Like many other clubs their virtual ticket sales during lockdown were the equivalent of 60 per cent of their average matchday attendance. Time for a re-think with BT Sport?
Any football thoughts - Torquay or England - send to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or to Twitter: @fanszonet
To all the Yellow Army stay safe, in anticipation of news of at least seven or eight signings due to be announced on Monday.
COYY!
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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rjdgull
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 23, 2021 16:37:44 GMT
23rd July 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.
TORQUAY UNITED MANAGER EXCITED BY THE ARRIVAL OF HIS NEW RECRUITS
It might have been the shortest gap between the play-off final and pre-season training, with Gary Johnson managing a week on a cruise liner to recharge his batteries as well as keeping tabs on possible signings, and clearly much has happened.
The result of all this hard work was the drip-feed unveiling of seven new arrivals during Monday.
Two goalkeepers: Marcin Brzozowski (from QPR) and Morecambe’s Mark Halstead; a left-sided centre-back Ali Omar (Barnsley), left-back Dan Martin (Cardiff City), Colchester’s mid-fielder Tom Lapside, winger Keelan O’Connell from Bournemouth with forward Klaidi Lolos (Plymouth Argyle).
The Magnificent Seven? Time will tell and clearly there’s room for more - on loan or otherwise. Johnson is excited about his new recruits with a good balance of youth and experience, especially the ones with EFL games on their cv, some on two year deals.
As the manager says, Torquay is a development club which can give these players the opportunity to enhance their careers.
Looking at some of the signings the so called ‘top clubs’ - Stockport County, Chesterfield, Wrexham and Notts County - have made, ‘splashing the cash’ - it does look as if money is no object to try to buy themselves out of the National League. But part-time Sutton managed pretty well without.
FC Halifax manager, Pete Wild, summed the situation up when he said, “ There’s probably more money flying around our league than the one above.”
Last season’s Covid hit fixture programme, with matches crammed in every few days, was surely a major part of the reason why so many players, in all leagues, suffered injury woes.
So, thank goodness that this year’s fixtures are well spaced out to allow plenty of recovery time between matches.
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With no teams coming up from Step 2, newly arrived in the National League come Southend United and Grimsby Town.
Southend, formed in 1906, started life in the Southern League, helping to co-found the Football League’s new Third Division in 1920 where they stayed until relegation in 1966. They reached the dizzy heights of the Championship, but only for one season, in 2006 The Shrimpers have played at their current ground, Roots Hall, since 1955, but under owner, property developer Ron Martin, have plans to re-locate to a site at Fossetts Farm.
Over the years the club has had a number of well known managers: Barry Fry, Peter Taylor, David Webb, Paul Sturrock, Sol Campbell and Bobby Moore. Current boss, in his second spell, is Phil Brown.
After 101 years in the Football League Southend join non-league football. Grimsby Town, founded in 1879, became members of the Football League in 1892 playing at Blundell Park but have plans to re-locate.
This will be Grimsby’s second time in non-league having previously been relegated into what then was the Conference in 2010. They flirted with promotion, reaching the play-off final in 2015 losing a penalty shoot-out to Bristol Rovers in front of a record Wembley crowd of 47,029.
The following year they went one better, defeating Forest Green Rovers 3-1, under Paul Hurst, to clinch a return to the EFL But now they find themselves back in non-league but hopeful of a swift return, once again under Paul Hurst.
Grimsby’s notable managers have included: Bill Shankley, Lawrie McMenemy and Alan Buckley.
As other clubs falling out of the EFL have found, getting back again is not an easy ride so that extra automatic promotion place would help. Let’s hope that those on the National League board are looking at all the recent comments on this subject.
We await the publication of the interim Fans-Led Review report due out before the end of the month.
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A regular topic the Yellow Army contact this column about is live streaming which proved so successful last season, it would then be very popular if the National League and BT could work something out.
However, for those who can’t get to Plainmoor the club is live streaming the pre-season matches against Truro City, Plymouth Argyle and Bournemouth.
Seven new signings to be seen in the up-coming pre-season friendlies so let us know your first impressions to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
As always to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 30, 2021 19:03:40 GMT
30th July 2021
TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
In light of numerous concerns raised by supporters on forums and social media and to TUST board members in person at Tuesday’s match, TUST has this week written to the Club’s directors asking them to reconsider the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline one hour before kick-off.
Not providing an opportunity for fans to pay on the gate with card or even cash has a number of implications and it is clear that many supporters are not aware of the requirement. It is also potentially discriminatory. We will provide further details of our request and the Club’s response when we receive it.
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Post by rjdgull on Jul 30, 2021 20:11:02 GMT
30th July 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.
GARY JOHNSON’S PLEA FOR REFORM WINS SUPPORT - DOOR IS OPEN FOR CHANGES
Last Thursday Tracey Crouch MP, chair of the Fan-Led Review, published her interim report following over 100 hours of evidence from over 130 supporters’ groups plus the results of a survey which had in excess of 16,000 responses.
The report itemises a number of recommendations: to introduce an Independent Regulator for English football to oversee a new club licensing system to improve the standard of ownership across the game; legislation to make supporter engagement mandatory; a ‘Golden Share’ for fans, giving veto powers over reserved items such as club badges, location, colours and competitions; enhance the existing legal provision for Assets of Community Value and stricter financial oversight.
“ They didn’t heed the warnings,” says Crouch as she criticises all the current football authorities for failing to carry out reforms by now.
Regular readers of this column will have read in recent weeks support for Torquay United’s manager’s plea for reform in the National League set up, as Gary Johnson advocates the National League being part of the EFL.
He and TUST can take heart from further recommendations from Crouch’s report: “meaningful discussions” should take place between the EFL and National League to absorb the top National League into the EFL.
In addition she recommends “urgent reform” of the National League Board removing club directors, replacing them with independent directors as well as re-assessing voting structures. The current board is made up of directors / officials from Aldershot, Bognor Regis, Chesterfield, Dagenham & Redbridge, Gateshead, Hampton & Richmond, Solihull Moors and Stockport County.
And another recommendation that could be of interest to United owner Clarke Osborne is, whether he decides either to keep Plainmoor or build a new stadium, Crouch would like to see the removal of barriers in lower divisions, in order to maximise revenue, to allow clubs in League 2 to operate all weather pitches.
Increasing revenue streams all year round, not just on match days, is what clubs like Torquay United have been crying out for so an artificial pitch could be a start.
What is clear from this report is that Crouch wants to ensure that fan engagement and influence is an important part of the game’s governance at all levels in the future.
The final report is due out in the autumn, meanwhile it would be good to know that the National League, under its new chairman, will be busy.
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Around 75% of supporters will be returning to watch their teams, 65% were ‘excited’ about doing so, with only 23% ‘apprehensive’, according to a recent survey carried out by the Football Supporters’ Association.
Those returning to stadiums are doing so because they want to get life back to normal, financially support their club and local businesses. Also they missed meeting friends and celebrating together.
The survey also asked about the main safety features that would make them feel more comfortable: the availability of hand sanitiser, contactless payments, clubs publishing their risk assessments and hygiene procedures, social distancing in queues.
Torquay United’s comprehensive Return of Supporters’ Code of Conduct covers all these and more.
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Last week’s Yellow Army podcast had a brief chat about goalkeeper’s gloves, so here’s an odd fact:
When was the last time a top flight keeper played without gloves? Answer: in Portugal’s penalty shoot out with England in Euro 2004, Ricardo took them off to face Darius Vassell’s spot kick. Not only did he save the penalty bare-handed, he then stepped up to smash Portugal’s next kick past David James to win the match.
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Gary Johnson thanked the travelling Yellow Army for being at Poole Town on Saturday to welcome the new players who had a good workout in the first pre-season friendly in a 2-0 win, amazingly only 34 days after that match at Ashton Gate.
He was even more delighted to see over 950 on Tuesday night to see a 3-0 win over Truro City although he wasn’t happy with what he described as a ‘leggy’ performance.
Saturday’s match against Plymouth Argyle is likely to be a sterner test. Included in their squad are both Ryan Law and Adam Randell.
Which new player has caught your eye? Who will be a fan favourite? Send your choice to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
To all the Yellow Army enjoy your return to Plainmoor - stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by rjdgull on Aug 7, 2021 18:32:09 GMT
6th August 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.
HAVE BOOTS WILL TRAVEL AS PLAYERS TRY TO WIN A CONTRACT
A few of the new Torquay United recruits might have had a nervous weekend following Gary Johnson’s post match comments saying he’ll be sitting down with them, as he explained, “ To show them how effective their game can be.”
So, what is there to be read into a pre-season friendly? United, due to circumstances not of their making, found themselves with only 34 days rest since a competitive match. And here they were just ten days into training - with seven new players plus trialists - facing local rivals Plymouth Argyle whose preparations are match ready for Saturday’s opening League 1 season.
It was a tough ask in front of an impressive Plainmoor crowd of 2356 and to be fair the Gulls started brightly until Ali Omar went off. His no nonsense defending and partnership with the ever impressive Joe Lewis upset the balance at the back after his departure.
It’s still early days in United’s preparations with the likelihood there will be further additions, maybe a player or two from Plymouth seen on Saturday for Johnson says he’s still building the squad.
Pre-season is a testing time for managers and players, for different reasons. For a manager ‘Have I brought in the right players?’ and for players ‘Have I impressed enough to get a starting place?’
But for a trialist it must be a real challenge. More than likely released by their previous club, the player has to take his chances, packing his bags, travelling to somewhere new, joining in with the training sessions and then, if lucky, getting half a game in a friendly And of course fans are trying to work out who you are in Guess the Player.
It’s not all glamour being a professional footballer. For those seeking a contract it’s a case of have boots will travel.
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As of last week clubs, including United, have had to implement new guidance about heading protocols. Over the past few months this column has written about the research looking into the connection between heading a football and, sadly, a number of former players developing dementia.
The FA have now introduced heading guidance across every level of the professional and amateur game from the start of the season. The new guidance, specifically focused on training sessions where the majority of heading occurs, covers all levels of men’s and women’s football having been agreed with all the relevant football bodies.
It is recommended that a maximum of ten higher force headers - defined as headers following long passes (more than 35m) or from crosses, corners, free-kicks - are carried out in any training week.
Club staff will be encouraged to work with players following a match to ensure they have adequate time to recover from their heading exposure.
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With Covid restrictions relaxed and away supporters inside Plainmoor for the first time for a long while it was good to see Saturday’s attendance.
However, there have been numerous concerns raised by supporters following the club’s new ticketing arrangements. In particular the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline of one hour before kick-off as well as no cash or card payments at the turnstiles.
TUST has been in contact with the club’s directors to ask them to reconsider.
Of course having a season ticket is a solution for those who can afford one. A National League survey of adult prices shows the most expensive being a whopping £420 to watch Kings Lynn, £400 at Notts County followed by Barnet’s £384 and Stockport County’s £380. United charge £360 but the cheapest are Solihull Moors at £195 with the lowest Eastleigh asking only £180.
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Who cannot fail to be proud of our wonderful Olympic swimmers? Four gold, three silver and bronze medals? We’ve learnt more about taekwondo and trampolining but surely the one spellbinding event has been BMX - who thought you could do that with a bike!
Catching up with news of ex-Gulls, Kyle Cameron has been named as Notts County’s captain; Andrew Nelson is to be offered a contract at Darlington and Myles Anderson joins Hampton and Richmond.
There was a red card for Lucas Covolan in Port Vale’s 1-0 friendly win over Chesterfield while Benji Kimpioka got his marching orders in a Sunderland pre-season match.
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United were in action again on Tuesday at Tiverton and after the match Johnson confirmed that the night’s two goals goalscorer was indeed Dan Holman, his former Cheltenham Town striker.
From early Yellow Army reaction Ali Omar is on his way to becoming a fan favourite - thank you for sending in your choices.
This week it’s Three Word Fun, send in your three words to describe your hopes for the season to: fanszone.tu@gmail.com or Twitter: @fanszonet
To all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
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Post by rjdgull on Aug 7, 2021 19:42:43 GMT
7th August 2021
NEW TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
TUST wrote to the club the day after the first home friendly against Truro to raise members’ concerns about this issue. We wrote:
‘There is a growing unrest about the club’s decisions regarding its ticketing arrangements for entry into the stadium. Whilst this may only affect a minority, nevertheless it is important that you are made aware because putting off supporters from attending cannot be in the club’s interest.
Seeing the new system in operation last night we feel we should draw your attention to these observations and comments from a number of supporters who were at the ground.
These are two examples:
One with learning difficulties, but independent, arrived after 6.45pm and was dismayed to find he couldn’t gain admittance. He was advised to go to the ticket office where he queued, eventually being allowed to buy a ticket.
A second person, an elderly season ticket holder, also arrived after 6.45pm unaware of the new policy and again was allowed to purchase a ticket after being directed to the ticket office.
Whilst acknowledging both were eventually able to watch the match, having problems doing so were surely not the image the club would want.
The club should also be concerned that a number of people, some holiday makers and supporters, were seen walking away on hearing there were no more ticket sales after the 6.45 pm deadline.
We applaud the club’s stance on supporters’ safe return to Plainmoor with its comprehensive Code of Conduct and whilst accepting contactless payments are a sign of the times, we ask, on behalf of our members, the club reconsiders its ticket policy.
We ask the club to reconsider the ‘ one hour before kick off’ deadline - there is a National League club which has a late entry policy allowing admittance even after half-time.
Could not some turnstile operators have hand held card readers? For those who only have cash can they still buy a ticket?
For a number their match day experience was spoilt by the confusion and difficulty in obtaining entry when the club’s purpose is engaging with its fan base and being the hub of the community.
It may be too late for Saturday’s visit of Plymouth Argyle but there are likely to be more turning up who will be unaware they will not be able to gain entry.
There has been much to praise the club for in recent times on and off the pitch but on this ticketing issue we do hope you will have another look.’
TUST has now received the following response from the club’s directors:
‘The health and safety of all our players, staff, supporters and community is the most important thing for the Board. TUST members have acknowledged that during COVID-19 Plainmoor was a safe place to be at. The Club has worked very closely with Torbay Council and the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) to ensure every stakeholder of the Club is safe, and this approach will not be compromised, which I am sure you will be in full agreement with.
Last season we invested in a new online ticketing system platform, to enable details for track and trace to be obtained, tickets had to be purchased online, or over the phone for all the games, with the turnstiles being cashless. This was in the interests of the Club, the staff, the supporters and the community. This ensured that there was not long queues at turnstiles, as supporters just showed their QR code, and were scanned into the ground, so it improved their matchday experience. We received great feedback from Council representatives, supporters and TUST for providing a safe environment during COVID-19. A Pandemic that has not disappeared.
Due to the positive feedback we had, and in the interests of public health, the Club in consultation with the Safety Advisory Group, made the decision to remain with cashless turnstiles in the best interests of all stakeholders. Tickets are available online, or over the phone, or on the day from the ticket office up to an hour before kick-off, so there is no discrimination.
We believe that this decision does not deter casual supporters, as on the day supporters can order tickets online, or in person at the ticket office, up to an hour before kick-off, if a supporter wants to go and only decides on the day then they can purchase tickets. Therefore, if someone is in a hotel in the town centre, they can purchase a ticket online and then come to the ground 10 minutes before kick-off. The majority of hotels in the bay, are booked online, and it is very pleasing to see that the majority are full. When booking a hotel or restaurant or going to an event, the majority plan and book in advance, in order to avoid disappointment, demonstrating that online booking is the new way
We have invested in infrastructure around all turnstiles, in order to provide the most efficient and safest environment for entering the ground. To be able to purchase a ticket by cash or by credit card at the turnstiles does not allow the Club to obtain the information they require for track and trace, therefore, putting at risk our staff, are valued supporters and the community. It also reduces the risk of close contact in queuing in the last hour, as well as reducing any likelihood of crowd disturbance.
The Safety Advisory Group, as you know includes the local emergency services, and we work together in order to protect and look after our local community. During the past 12 months, the Club had been under pressure by our supporters to relax COVID-19 measures in the ground, such as the mandatory wearing of face coverings, however, we stuck to our agreed protocols in the best interest of all concerned and the Torbay community, all the decisions made by the Club in consultation with SAG are in the best interests of the Torbay community, not ourselves, and we don’t believe this approach should be compromised.
I trust this explains the match day ticket protocols we have put in place.’
Whilst TUST welcomes and fully supports the Club’s commitment to the health and safety of all concerned, it is disappointing that it is unwilling to reconsider the one hour cut off for ticket office sales. Even at today's match against Chippenham we were aware of a number of supporters who were disappointed to be turned away after 2pm. We have visited many clubs in the past where supporters are required to buy a ticket at a remote office rather than on the turnstiles but this option has always been available right up to kick off.
We welcome the modernisation of the Club’s customer services but remain concerned that the ticketing policy may exclude those who do not use the internet or social media. These include some of United’s oldest and longest standing supporters.
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