TUST Updates

[North Curry House]

The two Clubs that did not vote will not be enough to swing the result, so there votes were not recorded or indeed required now.

Let us just crack on and finish the season. Any Club failing to comply should have sanctions brought against them, points and ultimately demotion. If they do not want to play with the big boys in a professional League, let them go to the regional division. With the greatest respect, they are dire.

Just glad Gary got us out at the first attempt....or we would still be there.

[TUST_Official]

26th February 2021

FANS' ZONE

TUST ZOOM SOCIAL – Monday 8th March from 6.30pm

Following a suggestion made at last year’s AGM, the TUST board are delighted to host an informal meeting for current and potential members on Zoom. This will run between 6.30pm and 8.30pm and you can join or leave at any time during this period.

This will give all supporters an opportunity to meet the board and other members for an open discussion about TUST’s activities and all things TUFC related.

Further details including a link to join the Zoom meeting will be circulated nearer the time. If you are not familiar with Zoom and would like any advice on how it works, please contact the Secretary at [email protected] including your phone number if you would prefer a call back.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

5th March 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.

TIME TO CONCENTRATE ON PROMOTION AS GULLS EXIT FA TROPHY

No football fan wishes their team to lose in the Quarter-Finals of a cup competition but just maybe the majority of the Yellow Army were not sorry to see the Gulls slip to a one goal defeat to Woking in Saturday’s FA Trophy - providing United do what every club says on these occasions, ‘we’re now going to concentrate on the league’ with that meaning promotion.

Mind you it was a weekend of baffling decisions by match officials when you look at the Six Nations clash in Cardiff, the Premier League games at The Hawthorns and Stamford Bridge not to mention United’s disallowed goal in sunny Surrey.

These remain difficult Covid times despite the gradual relaxation of lockdown rules having been announced. Whilst we, football supporters, have our own situations to manage, spare a thought for sportsmen and women who have to spend their lives in their secure bubbles. Take United’s Fraser Kerr, hundreds of miles from home, not playing, and wanting to negotiate his contract so he can return to his family which, with his move to Chesterfield, he has now achieved.

A number of Yellow Army fans are currently questioning the club’s escalating injury list and frustrating as it is to have more injured than available, it’s not just Torquay suffering from this problem.

With Kyle Cameron the latest to succumb to a hamstring pull he’s not alone. There are numerous players in other divisions unavailable, for example in the latest round of Premier matches of 82 players not available for selection 25 were due to thigh/hamstring problems which most agree is down to lack of recuperation time with there being three matches a week, including Burnley’s Ashley Barnes, Palace’s Wilfried Zaha and Newcastle’s Callum Wilson.

Manager Gary Johnson has tried to address these criticisms in this week’s ‘Inside Plainmoor’ with some pretty detailed frank answers and in the earlier Yellow Army podcast.

***************

Since the results of the National League vote there’s still no news about the way forward. Dartford manager Steve King talks some sense when he says what should happen: for there to be promotion into the EFL there has to be relegation into Step 2. And for that to happen there has to be promotion from North and South. To achieve this King says the remaining clubs who want to continue - 19 spread over North & South - are given 2-0 wins and three points from the clubs not playing as well as using the points already accumulated.

So what’s going to happen about Dover’s refusal to play, subject to an Independent Panel’s review? If their results are expunged how would the current table look, after Tuesday night’s results? Well, it would look like this:

P W D L GF GA GD PTS

Sutton Utd 22 14 4 4 41 21 20 46

Torquay Utd 23 13 5 5 44 24 20 44

Hartlepool Utd 25 13 5 7 34 24 10 44

Notts County 21 11 5 5 28 16 12 38

Eastleigh 23 10 8 5 30 21 9 38

Stockport 23 10 7 6 29 21 8 37

Wrexham 24 10 6 8 31 26 5 36



In other National League news FC Halifax are taking out a Sports England loan to survive; Yeovil Town have run out of money; Chesterfield, Wealdstone and Weymouth have furloughed players while King’s Lynn’s future changes on a daily basis.

On the other side of the coin, Wrexham’s Holywood owners have announced an incentive scheme whereby every time the side wins, albeit within the play-off places, the players get a £200 bonus for a win and £50 for a draw. Is this possible for players’ contracts to be changed mid season?

And an interesting stat, with Danny Wright in the side the Gulls score 2.2 goals per games but without him it’s 1.3. Let’s hope new signing Scott Boden can fill those - and his - boots!

Good luck to ex-Gulls striker Lee Phillips who has taken his first steps into management after joining the coaching staff at South Western Premier West side St. Blazey.

***************

From your comments the time’s not right for a Gary Johnson statue ( nor even ones for Leroy Rosenior or Paul Bastard if you listened to Charlie Baker on last week’s YA podcast ) and Gary may not thank me for reminding him it was four years ago this month, 2017, he had life saving surgery with a triple heart by-pass (followed by a serious attack on his nervous system) in the Bristol Royal Infirmary and this is where I have been, having had my double heart by-pass last week hence the missing column.

TUST is holding a Zoom Social on Monday, March 8 from 6.30pm, this is an opportunity for members and non-members to chat with TUST officials and we would love you to join us. Look out for an invite over the weekend.

As always if you have any news and views you would like to share contact me at: [email protected]. or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

With the real possibility of the Yellow Army returning to Plainmoor for the final home match against Barnet on May 22, stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

6th March 2021

ZOOM SOCIAL

Monday 8th March - 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Sadly we still cannot host a meeting in person but we hope you will join us for an informal virtual meeting for current and potential members on Zoom. At least it will be an opportunity for Exiles to attend. Put Saturday's disappointing result behind you, grab a drink and come along between 6.30pm and 8.30pm - you can join or leave at any time during this period.

This will give all supporters an opportunity to meet the board and other members for an open discussion about TUST’s activities and all things TUFC related.

Join Zoom Meeting via this link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88133061111?p ... YvQ0xDdz09

or manually via the Zoom website using Meeting ID: 881 3306 1111 and Passcode: 320889

If you are not familiar with Zoom and would like any advice on how it works, please contact the Secretary at [email protected] including your phone number if you would prefer a call back.

We look forward to seeing you on Monday!

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

12th March 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’S LATEST HOME DEFEAT LEADS TO UNREST AMONGST FANS - IS IT JUST DOWN TO INJURIES?

Not the home form of a top side and no longer ‘Fortress Plainmoor’, so what’s happening? If you read the forums after Saturday’s 1-0 reverse to rivals Hartlepool, who, in October, were hammered 5-0 on their ground, comments like: ‘Teams are no longer playing with fear against us’, ‘Best we can hope for is the play-offs’ were the mildest ones and, of course, the inevitable ‘get rid of the manager.’

It was uncomfortable viewing, even from the comfort of home, so it was good for the players’ morale that the Yellow Army were not inside Plainmoor.

These are, certainly, testing times especially when you look at the stats, for example the last time United defeated Hartlepool at Plainmoor was thanks to a David Graham strike in October 2001.

And the current form tables make for uncomfortable reading: last six matches the Gulls are 12th with 7 points from 18; last 10 matches United are 15th with 12 points from 30.

So is the manager under pressure? From himself undoubtedly but there’s bound to be discussions amongst those running the club, for it’s no secret that the club’s owner and directors see this season as United’s best chance of returning to the EFL.

What will it take to put things right? The obvious answer is the swift return of the key injured players - Wright, Cameron, Nemane spring to mind. Return some of the current loan players and recruit more fit-for-purpose ones? Probably easier said than done and the Boss did say in the question and answer session last week that there would be no more signings.

Clarke Osborne has poured in £Millions already, does he continue to do so in order to reach the promised land or has Gary Johnson used up his share already? Interestingly, in last week’s ‘Inside Plainmoor’ he did comment on several other sides having bigger budgets.

It could be a blessing that Tuesday’s match against Aldershot was called off giving the missing players a little longer to recover, we’ll find out just before kick-off on Saturday.

The Gulls still have 19 games to play - that’s 57 points at stake - but were Dover’s results to be expunged then only 17 games would be left.

Somehow United have to re-discover the form that took them to such a commanding lead earlier. With the Gulls now third they become the chasers so will this alter the mindset? We’ll soon find out!

****************

In National League news the Daily Mail reported last week that NL chairman Brian Barwick is expected to stand down at the end of the season after a revolt from clubs about his leadership.

The former FA chief executive is understood to have lost the support of key allies on the board. Meanwhile plans for a new league for Step 2 teams in National North & South who want to continue have been sent this week to the FA’s Alliance Committee for consideration with eventually the FA Council making the final decision.

Crucially should this be given the green light it will mean promotion into the National League and therefore relegation out of it. There might still be three months of the season to play but big decisions like these need to be known sooner rather than later as well as the fate of Dover whose situation has dragged on for another week.

You can see why clubs in Steps 1 & 2 are reluctant to take on Sports England loans to complete the season as it’s been revealed that the funding, doubled to £600,000 in the Budget, has strings attached - any club that accepts the money cannot be sold until it has been repaid.

*************

By the time United play Boreham Wood in Saturday’s BT Sport evening kick-off, rivals Sutton will have caught up their games in hand. The Wood, though, are coming to terms with their loan request to see them through to the end of the season, from Sport England, being turned down.

That penalty save in the FA Trophy game that saw the Gulls miss out on a potential Wembley final was a key part of the match as Woking keeper Craig Ross explained after watching previous clips, “ With Asa Hall, he mixes them up, the two previously he went to the keeper’s right and I just had a feeling he favoured my left. It was one of those gut instinct decisions.”

***************

Many thanks for all the ‘get well soon’ messages I’ve received from the club’s directors, manager Gary Johnson and from fellow fans.

Over the weekend there were comments about Gary Johnson’s position so this week’s question is should he stay and complete the season or go?

Send your ‘stay or go’ reply to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

In the meantime to all the Yellow Army stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

19th March 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 SLIP TO THIRD, EIGHT POINTS ADRIFT - OR WILL IT BE ELEVEN AS THE GOALS DRY UP?

But for the thickness of Shaun MacDonald’s left hand post, in a four minute spell, in front of the BT Sport cameras, United would have been 2-0 down in Saturday’s late kick-off at Boreham Wood following Asa Hall’s second consecutive penalty save in the first half. Fine margins!

Gary Johnson’s after match verdict, “ We know we’ve still got to improve a little bit ”, must rate as one of the biggest understatements for a while. Even the most biased Gulls’ fan would have been thankful for the point as, despite the build-up play the lack of a cutting edge up-front was once again in evidence, three blanks from the last four So a lucky point or a valuable one keeping United tucked in third behind the top two?

With the mid-week Aldershot game called off many were hoping a few more first choice players might have returned from injury but in the end only one, keeper Lucas Covolan, appeared. Seasoned Yellow Army watchers recognise the absence of key players, Kyle Cameron, Aaron Nemane, Danny Wright and even Dean Moxey are hampering the return to the fast, free flowing football that took United to a commanding lead in the first three months of the season We last saw Nemane on February 2 in the home defeat to Altincham while Moxey’s last appearance was in the FA Trophy win at Southport on February 6.

Monday’s arrival of Plymouth Argyle’s left back Ryan Law on loan suggests Moxey isn’t returning anytime soon. Law played 18 games for Truro last season before it was voided.

Johnson talks of now being the chasers but with the goals drying up - on Saturday there were only three shots on target - compare those stats with the Boxing Day rout of Yeovil Town when the Gulls had nine shots on target and five off, at this moment there seems more chance of Bradley Walsh’s TV quiz chasers catching Sutton.

If United want automatic promotion they cannot afford to lose many more of their remaining matches, they have seven losses to date. In 2018 Macclesfield were promoted having lost only eight and in 2019 Leyton Orient went up with seven losses. In a curtailed season, both Barrow and Harrogate each lost nine times before joining the EFL. So far Sutton have only been beaten four times.

In last week’s YA podcast the manager tells us that most of the injured will be back for the last ten games, we can only hope he’s right.

What to make of our two outfield loan players who can’t get a game? Max Sheaf, from Hull City made 22 League 2 appearances scoring five when on loan at Cheltenham in 2019-20 and has started three times for his parent club in League 1.

Rob Street has less experience with only ten Premier League 2 starts for Crystal Palace so that could explain why he’s only had 184 minutes pitch time with the Gulls.

So, what’s to be made of Tuesday’s 4-1 thumping at Maidenhead? The manager says he takes full responsibility and quite right. Chesterfield had lost there 2-0 on Saturday with their manager confessing he’d picked the wrong team. It was a shocking performance with not one ‘regular’ playing to their potential, only the three second half subs showed they were up for the fight. And to be honest, four was kind as it could quite easily have been double that.

**************

In National League news it’s the end of the season - or is it? - for all North & South clubs following last Friday’s decision by the Alliance Committee to support the termination and reject the proposal for an alternative competition in order to protect the “ integrity of the National League system.” Whilst the rules allow an appeal it looked like the FA Council would ratify the committee’s ruling but at their meeting on Thursday, the result of a vote was delayed giving rise to speculation that maybe there’s been a change of heart. After all no promotion from or relegation into Step 2 makes a mockery of the integrity of the whole National League.

Dorking Wanderers did issue a strongly worded statement saying they will publish their legal findings as well as meeting with other clubs to discuss taking the matter to arbitration.

To the average football supporter all this seems very strange, how can such an important proposition be decided on the day when the Dover situation is now into its seventh week, having last played on January 30? Surely the integrity of the league has been severely compromised by Dover’s refusal to play? And what does the NL board propose to do about it? If there’s no promotion from Step 2 how will Macclesfield be replaced?

Last week saw three managerial changes: Wealdstone appointed caretaker Stuart Maynard to the role, Barnet replaced Tim Flowers with former manager Paul Fairclough coming in to advise while Solihull Moors ‘borrowed’ Mark Yates from Stourbridge to the end of the season.

Last week also saw Vanarama renew their sponsorship of the league for £4m until 2025.

*****************

Last week’s question, should Gary Johnson stay or go, brought the biggest response so far with 100% replies saying he must stay. Readers Dave Sellman and Richard Cox felt strongly that the question shouldn’t have been asked!

This week’s poser: Should it be Dover and out? Should the National League expel the Kent side? Send your yes or no to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

To all the Yellow Army stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

FANS' ZONE

TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.

IT’S ALL SMILES AT PLAINMOOR AND BEYOND AS UNITED RETURN TO WINNING WAYS

Following that ‘out of character’ 4-1 thumping at Maidenhead last Tuesday, did United, as manager Gary Johnson wanted, get their Mojo back on Saturday with the much needed return to winning ways?

Well, despite their lowly position, King’s Lynn were no pushover and it took visiting keeper Theo Richardson spilling Lemonheigh-Evans’ shot into the path of Scott Boden to separate the two sides to give the Gulls not only three valuable points but also importantly a renewed energy and belief Remarkably, for the league’s top scorers this was only the second goal scored from open play since January. It was, too, a welcome return to see the players having greater confidence to shoot with five shots on target and seven off. That gives something to build on. And after being asked to play in unfamiliar roles it was good to see Jake Andrews back to what he does best, rewarded with a place in the National League Team of the Day.

Let’s reflect on the Boss, Gary Johnson who, rightly or wrongly, has been under pressure to reverse the alarming slump in form. Having made a point, after Saturday’s match, of thanking fans for sending in their good wishes he will be doubly reassured that he has 100% support from the Yellow Army.

Bearing in mind the current situation, not helped, as every supporter agrees, by the serious loss of so many key players, it’s worth revisiting what Gary Johnson said before his very first home game in charge against Woking in September 2018, “..they were playing with a bit of fear, so don’t be scared to make a run or try a shot - if you miss five chances, go for the sixth.”

We all know Johnson is a very experienced manager in a career which started with his first job at Newmarket Town in 1986 and, with six promotions to his name, who can argue with these stats:

Played 1,123 Won 461 Drawn 263 Lost 399 Win % 41
His Gulls’ record: Played 113 Won 62 Drawn 17 Lost 34 Win % 55

So, on to Tuesday night’s 2-0 win, the double over Solihull Moors with Jake Andrews standing out again, topping his performance with a class free kick and then providing the assist for Adam Randell’s great finish.

United remain third still six points behind the leaders as, perhaps surprisingly, both Hartlepool and Sutton won away against what should have been strong opposition, respectively Dagenham and Bromley who then sacked the longest serving National League manager, Neil Smith.

**************

In the last few days talk in the National League has been about Stockport County’s amazing transfer fee of £250,000 paid to Fleetwood Town for striker Paddy Madden signed on a three and a half year contract worth around £3,500 a week.

Other talk has continued over the fate of Dover as the saga drags on into an eighth week, Dover chairman Jim Parmenter has shed some light on what’s going on when he revealed, “ We’re in the process of taking legal advice. We’ve got to answer our charges ( League rule 8.39 regarding the non-fulfilment of a fixture), once we’ve got the legal advice we’ll be doing that and see what comes out.”

An independent panel, with those on it yet to be named, is due to assess the evidence but no date has been announced.

After Tuesday’s fixture the Gulls enter into the really important part of the season with fourteen matches to play, seven at home with the prospect of more players returning and signing as owner Clarke Osborne seems willing to add to Gary Johnson’s budget to chase down promotion.

***************

In the past week TUST is aware of the latest accounts, from Companies House, being posted on various fans’ forums showing that up to March 2020 the club had received loans from Riviera Stadium Limited totalling £3,039,000 indicating that the debts had increased over the previous twelve months by a further £900,000. One can only guess the figure from last year to the present with the club’s spending on its promotion push.

***************

Sad news this week with the passing of Alan Slough, grandfather of Louie. Slough made his name as an outstanding mid-fielder for Luton, Fulham, Peterborough and Millwall, joining United as coach to his boyhood friend Bruce Rioch from 1982 - 84. TUST sends its condolences to Alan’s family and friends as it does too to those of supporter Michael Hughes who passed away last week.

Last week’s question asked about what action should be taken over Dover’s refusal to play but there was no overall conclusion other than something should happen - perhaps underlining why the National League has taken no action yet.

This week what are your thoughts about returning to watch ‘live’ football, when allowed, only if those attending have been vaccinated, yes or no? Send to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT.

As always to the Yellow Army stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY TV

[TUST_Official]

28th March 2021[br] [br]NEWSLETTER - MARCH 21[br][br]CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS[br] [br]Dear members and supporters,[br] [br]We hope that you all are keeping safe and well, whilst hopefully a light is beginning to glimmer at the end of the national lockdown tunnel. It is also pleasing to see some of our players returning from injury, whilst our owner continues to give support to Gary Johnson in backing our push for promotion, including providing backing for new signings. Similarly, the TUST board are pleased that so many supporters are continuing to back Gary, the staff and the team during a time which has provided its ongoing challenges.[br] [br]I will not enter into much detail here about TUST's news, as all of our actions are well reflected in detail in the bulletin that follows. I will just give voice to the fact that our TUST volunteer board members are actively working seamlessly as a team together in supporting our club and its community in the remit we have. We endeavour to keep up to date with the wider national picture and any local situation which might be relative to Torquay United's future sustainability. Equally, we wish to encourage every opportunity that the club has to outreach to its supporter community. As well, we passionately follow the Gulls' performances, as I am sure we all do, in the hope for success and progress on the pitch.[br] [br]I would like to thank the TUST board team for its ongoing work during the lockdown. Particularly in this instance our secretary, for endeavouring to fulfil our aim to provide you with clarity in informing you in full detail of our recent meetings, both as the board and afterwards with TUFC. You will find these details in our bulletin below for your perusal and interest.[br][br]You are welcome as always to send us any views or comments via our email address - [email protected], We then aim to listen and to respond as best we can.[br] [br]Best wishes to everyone,[br]Michel Thomas[br]COYY[br][br]THE CLUB'S FUTURE PLANS[br]There has been mounting speculation and rumours about the owner’s plans for the Club on forums and among fans. The root of concern is the approach of the end of the 5 year plan announced by Clarke Osborne when he first acquired the Club and statements in the accounts of Riviera Stadium Ltd indicating financial support for the Club until the end of the 2020/21 season. The latest accounts indicated debts owed by the Club to RSL of approximately £3m at March 2020, an increase of £900k during the previous 12 months. It is widely expected that this debt will have increased by at least as much again during the latest 12 months. The importance of promotion to the EFL is recognised as critical and a clear objective of the current season as reiterated by this week’s announcement of additional funding for squad strengthening if the manager requires it. With this in mind the recent drop down the table has led to growing concerns as to the owner’s response if promotion is not achieved.[br] [br]Whilst recognising the owner’s right to keep his intentions private, the lack of any recent communication regarding plans for the Club’s future including relocation of the stadium has fuelled speculation. There appears to be a lack of recognition that, whatever the ownership model may be, a football club is a community asset which supporters invest a lot of time and effort in and which is central to many people’s lives. Indeed, there had been a commitment by Clarke Osborne to involve all interested parties in the plans for the Club when he first arrived.[br] [br]With all this in mind, TUST welcomed the opportunity to put the following questions to the directors at its recent meeting with Dominic Mee, the club’s Media and Supporter Liaison Co-ordinator;[br][br]How does the owner view his return being realised for his significant investment to obtain promotion to the EFL?[br]How does this tie in with the Five Year Plan and especially a new stadium?[br]Can the club shed light on the apparent loan arrangement with the recently appointed Thai director?[br]We will advise our members of the response when we receive it.[br] [br] [br]LIAISON MEETING WITH DOMINIC MEE[br]Other items covered in our meeting with Dom included the return of supporters to Plainmoor. TUST congratulated the Club on its management of the return of supporters in December.[br] [br]If the roadmap out of Covid goes to plan, and the local restrictions are lifted and lockdown rules are eased, supporters will be allowed back again for the final home game on 22nd May however this was by no means a certainty. TUST has offered its services to assist the Club in advance of this match or on the day of the game if required. It could mobilise a team of members if needed.[br] [br]TUST also suggested some form of memorabilia to celebrate the return of fans such as stickers, badges or flags. Dom advised that the prospect of having fans back is exciting, however the Club does not feel any celebrations should take place until ALL supporters are able to return to Plainmoor.[br] [br]TUST reported widespread support for the streaming service and appreciation for the opportunity it afforded many to watch games that they would not otherwise be able to experience. It had received many enquiries from members about whether the service might continue in future seasons. Dom said he had also received enquiries regarding this.[br] [br]He explained that any decision would not be the Club’s alone as the provision of streaming was subject to regulation by the football authorities and also influenced by the TV companies.[br] [br]TUST advised that feedback it had received suggested that most fans who were able to attend matches would prefer to return to the stadium even if streaming was available and that those who wanted to watch the stream were generally willing to pay a charge similar to the ground entrance fee to do so as long as the quality of the package was good.[br] [br]TUST brought the Football Boot Bank initiative run by Plymouth Argyle to the Club’s attention. The idea is to provide collection points for unwanted kit (not just boots) donated by individuals or clubs for recycling for families in need. We are keen to support the scheme when current restrictions are eased.[br] [br]In any other business, Dom noted that TUST had not been retweeting promotional postings made by the Club and wondered if there was a reason for this. Those present were not directly involved in TUST’s social media but reassured Dom that this was not a conscious decision and would be raised with those who managed its social media channels.[br] [br]Dom said that George Edwards, CEO, was concerned that TUST was supporting a vote questioning whether Gary Johnson should stay or go, and asked why a member of TUST felt it necessary to use his article in a local newspaper to drum up activity as to whether he should stay and complete the season, or go?[br] [br]Nick Brodrick apologised if his question had caused offence as this was certainly not his intention. He explained that, like it or not, speculation on the manager's future was an increasing topic of debate amongst fans over that weekend and his column had merely reflected this. The piece itself certainly did not support calls for Gary Johnson to go and the question, which attracted the biggest response of any he had conducted in his column, was unanimous in its support of the manager. Nick did point out that a few weeks earlier he had asked opinions about whether there should be a statue erected in GJ's honour as was raised in an edition of 'Inside Plainmoor'. It was also stated that the TUST board were 100% supportive of the manager.[br] [br] [br]SUMMARY OF MARCH TUST BOARD MEETING[br][br]The Chairman reported that, whilst the attendance had been disappointing, the recent Zoom social meeting had been an enjoyable opportunity to liaise with those members who did attend and the two hour discussion had been both supportive of TUST and productive.[br] [br]Topics covered had included the streaming of matches, the role of Exile groups, the owner’s plans for the Club and on-field matters.[br] [br]It was agreed that a second event should be held towards the end of the season. It was suggested that this may attract more interest if there was a specific topic for discussion or a guest speaker. Date and format to be considered at next meeting.[br] [br]Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST)[br]Matt Anthony, manager of TUCST had advised that there were currently 24 signed up for the Inspirations Stay at Home Training Packs sponsored by TUST. More are expected to sign up when those with more severe disabilities are able to resume.[br] [br]Torquay United Women’s Football Club[br]The current season had been terminated. Although the team were bottom of the league, there had been a recent improvement in its performances and there were grounds for optimism for the next season. The sponsorship for tracksuits agreed by TUST had not been requested but would be available when required for the new season.[br][br]SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

28th March 2021

NEWSLETTER - MARCH 21

CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS

Dear members and supporters,

We hope that you all are keeping safe and well, whilst hopefully a light is beginning to glimmer at the end of the national lockdown tunnel. It is also pleasing to see some of our players returning from injury, whilst our owner continues to give support to Gary Johnson in backing our push for promotion, including providing backing for new signings. Similarly, the TUST board are pleased that so many supporters are continuing to back Gary, the staff and the team during a time which has provided its ongoing challenges. I will not enter into much detail here about TUST's news, as all of our actions are well reflected in detail in the bulletin that follows. I will just give voice to the fact that our TUST volunteer board members are actively working seamlessly as a team together in supporting our club and its community in the remit we have. We endeavour to keep up to date with the wider national picture and any local situation which might be relative to Torquay United's future sustainability. Equally, we wish to encourage every opportunity that the club has to outreach to its supporter community. As well, we passionately follow the Gulls' performances, as I am sure we all do, in the hope for success and progress on the pitch.

I would like to thank the TUST board team for its ongoing work during the lockdown. Particularly in this instance our secretary, for endeavouring to fulfil our aim to provide you with clarity in informing you in full detail of our recent meetings, both as the board and afterwards with TUFC. You will find these details in our bulletin below for your perusal and interest.[br][br]You are welcome as always to send us any views or comments via our email address - [email protected], We then aim to listen and to respond as best we can. Q

Best wishes to everyone,

Michel Thomas COYY

THE CLUB'S FUTURE PLANS

There has been mounting speculation and rumours about the owner’s plans for the Club on forums and among fans. The root of concern is the approach of the end of the 5 year plan announced by Clarke Osborne when he first acquired the Club and statements in the accounts of Riviera Stadium Ltd indicating financial support for the Club until the end of the 2020/21 season. The latest accounts indicated debts owed by the Club to RSL of approximately £3m at March 2020, an increase of £900k during the previous 12 months. It is widely expected that this debt will have increased by at least as much again during the latest 12 months. The importance of promotion to the EFL is recognised as critical and a clear objective of the current season as reiterated by this week’s announcement of additional funding for squad strengthening if the manager requires it. With this in mind the recent drop down the table has led to growing concerns as to the owner’s response if promotion is not achieved.

Whilst recognising the owner’s right to keep his intentions private, the lack of any recent communication regarding plans for the Club’s future including relocation of the stadium has fuelled speculation. There appears to be a lack of recognition that, whatever the ownership model may be, a football club is a community asset which supporters invest a lot of time and effort in and which is central to many people’s lives. Indeed, there had been a commitment by Clarke Osborne to involve all interested parties in the plans for the Club when he first arrived.

With all this in mind, TUST welcomed the opportunity to put the following questions to the directors at its recent meeting with Dominic Mee, the club’s Media and Supporter Liaison Co-ordinator;[br][br]How does the owner view his return being realised for his significant investment to obtain promotion to the EFL?[br]How does this tie in with the Five Year Plan and especially a new stadium?[br]Can the club shed light on the apparent loan arrangement with the recently appointed Thai director?[br]We will advise our members of the response when we receive it.

LIAISON MEETING WITH DOMINIC MEE

Other items covered in our meeting with Dom included the return of supporters to Plainmoor. TUST congratulated the Club on its management of the return of supporters in December.

If the roadmap out of Covid goes to plan, and the local restrictions are lifted and lockdown rules are eased, supporters will be allowed back again for the final home game on 22nd May however this was by no means a certainty. TUST has offered its services to assist the Club in advance of this match or on the day of the game if required. It could mobilise a team of members if needed.

TUST also suggested some form of memorabilia to celebrate the return of fans such as stickers, badges or flags. Dom advised that the prospect of having fans back is exciting, however the Club does not feel any celebrations should take place until ALL supporters are able to return to Plainmoor.[br] [br]TUST reported widespread support for the streaming service and appreciation for the opportunity it afforded many to watch games that they would not otherwise be able to experience. It had received many enquiries from members about whether the service might continue in future seasons. Dom said he had also received enquiries regarding this. He explained that any decision would not be the Club’s alone as the provision of streaming was subject to regulation by the football authorities and also influenced by the TV companies. TUST advised that feedback it had received suggested that most fans who were able to attend matches would prefer to return to the stadium even if streaming was available and that those who wanted to watch the stream were generally willing to pay a charge similar to the ground entrance fee to do so as long as the quality of the package was good.

TUST brought the Football Boot Bank initiative run by Plymouth Argyle to the Club’s attention. The idea is to provide collection points for unwanted kit (not just boots) donated by individuals or clubs for recycling for families in need. We are keen to support the scheme when current restrictions are eased.[br] [br]In any other business, Dom noted that TUST had not been retweeting promotional postings made by the Club and wondered if there was a reason for this. Those present were not directly involved in TUST’s social media but reassured Dom that this was not a conscious decision and would be raised with those who managed its social media channels.[br] [br]Dom said that George Edwards, CEO, was concerned that TUST was supporting a vote questioning whether Gary Johnson should stay or go, and asked why a member of TUST felt it necessary to use his article in a local newspaper to drum up activity as to whether he should stay and complete the season, or go?[br] [br]Nick Brodrick apologised if his question had caused offence as this was certainly not his intention. He explained that, like it or not, speculation on the manager's future was an increasing topic of debate amongst fans over that weekend and his column had merely reflected this. The piece itself certainly did not support calls for Gary Johnson to go and the question, which attracted the biggest response of any he had conducted in his column, was unanimous in its support of the manager. Nick did point out that a few weeks earlier he had asked opinions about whether there should be a statue erected in GJ's honour as was raised in an edition of 'Inside Plainmoor'. It was also stated that the TUST board were 100% supportive of the manager.

SUMMARY OF MARCH TUST BOARD MEETING

The Chairman reported that, whilst the attendance had been disappointing, the recent Zoom social meeting had been an enjoyable opportunity to liaise with those members who did attend and the two hour discussion had been both supportive of TUST and productive.[br] [br]Topics covered had included the streaming of matches, the role of Exile groups, the owner’s plans for the Club and on-field matters.[br] [br]It was agreed that a second event should be held towards the end of the season. It was suggested that this may attract more interest if there was a specific topic for discussion or a guest speaker. Date and format to be considered at next meeting.[br] [br]Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST)[br]Matt Anthony, manager of TUCST had advised that there were currently 24 signed up for the Inspirations Stay at Home Training Packs sponsored by TUST. More are expected to sign up when those with more severe disabilities are able to resume.

Torquay United Women’s Football Club. The current season had been terminated. Although the team were bottom of the league, there had been a recent improvement in its performances and there were grounds for optimism for the next season. The sponsorship for tracksuits agreed by TUST had not been requested but would be available when required for the new season.

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

2nd 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.

DEFIANT UNITED WILL FIGHT TO THE BITTER END AS NEW STRIKER IS TOLD GRAB A HATFUL AND ENJOY THE BEACHES DUDE

Football fans and the twenty-two other clubs have been asking for the past eight weeks just what are the National League board going to do about Dover’s refusal to play any matches since February.

Well, the answer came late on Friday afternoon last week when the adjudication of the independent panel revealed that the Kent side’s results - 15 games - would, as predicted, be expunged with United losing three points following their 2-0 win earlier in the season and, of course, Kyle Cameron having his two goals chalked off.

But that was not the full decision as with no relegation from the National League Dover will, much to the annoyance of many, be allowed to remain in the division for the 2021-22 campaign but with minus twelve points.

Compare this punishment with Luton Town back in 2008 who had 30 points deducted for matters involving player transfers and breaking rules on exiting administration.

But nothing beats rugby’s penalty of minus 105 points to Saracens for salary cap breaches.

In addition the panel fined Dover £40,000 explaining the club had “avoided costs” by not completing and were therefore “significantly benefitting” from the grant allocation given to them last October - £84,000 a month for the first three months of the season, a total of £252,000.

Dover’s chairman, Jim Parmenter, speaking over the weekend reckons his club’s “been hung out to dry” and is to take legal advice about an appeal. There are many who think they’re lucky to stay in the top division while there are others who believe they should pay back some of their grant money.

In total contrast Chesterfield have confirmed their request for a loan of just under £1m has been granted from Sports England.

Bromley, who sacked longstanding manager Neil Smith last week, have appointed Andy Woodman in his place. Yellow Army fans with good memories may recall Woodman had a brief spell at Exeter City but not helped by two red cards in six appearances!

With sixteen clubs in Step 2 charged with non-fulfilment of fixtures and fined accordingly, it’s not surprising to learn, that proposed by Maidstone Utd and Dorking Wanderers, the other 64 NL clubs are being asked to support an EGM to debate the resolution: ‘The meeting has no confidence in the Chairman and the Board’.

So there are more twists and turns of this saga to come.

****************

‘We won’t be giving up on anything, we’ve got to keep going until the bitter end’, defiant words coming out of Plainmoor following a disappointing lone goal defeat in East London on Saturday.

And this after owner Clarke Osborne was reported to have sanctioned additional funding to the manager for a promotion push in the all important run-in, swiftly followed by the signing of exciting Sunderland prospect, striker Benji Kimpioka who was unlucky not to have scored on his debut, United taking advantage of the NL altering the transfer window; due to close on March 25 being extended to April 22.

Lots of Sunderland fans took to Twitter on Saturday praising Kimpioka and wishing him well with the best being, “Grab a hatful and enjoy the beaches dude.”

Dagenham, though, seem to have some spell over United. The last time Torquay scored against their National League rivals was in November 2016 with Kieffer Moore’s goal completing the double in that season.

Since then in the last six fixtures between the two sides United have failed to score, that’s over 540 minutes without a goal. A rather unwanted stat. The Gulls now go into the Easter fixtures knowing that every match is vital and that if they can’t catch Sutton - Tuesday April 13 is a big, big game - then finishing either second or third is really important for the play-offs to ensure a home tie playing against the winner of one of the sides that finish fourth to seventh.

This afternoon’s Good Friday fixture at home to Woking is hopefully the start of closing in on the top two with 39 points still to play for and with the added bonus of Danny Wright and Gary Warren back in the squad.

Before all National League games today there will be a minute’s silence to pay tribute to Yeovil Town’s captain, Lee Collins, who has passed away at age 32.

***************

Ex-Gull watch: good luck to Joe Oastler who’s become head of coaching at Havant & Waterlooville’s Pro:)irect academy.

What’s your view on the management of the National League? Send your opinion to: [email protected] or to Twitter: @FanszoneT

Last week’s consensus is that fans should be allowed back into grounds regardless of whether they’ve been vaccinated or not.

To all the Yellow Army, club directors, management and players a very Happy Easter and remember the rule of six - that’s six important points from Good Friday and Easter Monday!

SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY

[TUST_Official]

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.

******************

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?

*************

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.

***************

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.

**************

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: [email protected] 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

[TUST_Official]

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!

***************

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?

***************

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.

****************

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.

****************

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: [email protected] 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

[TUST_Official]

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.

****************

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!

*****************

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!

**************

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: [email protected] 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

[TUST_Official]

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!

[TUST_Official]

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.

*************

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.

***************

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 localMPs, 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.

*************

Cooking, cycling, DIY were all popular hobbies taken up during lockdowns but probably the onewhich 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: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT

As always stay safe and, when offered, get your vaccination. COYY.