Here we go then, festive football on the road! Tomorrow afternoon, we make our final away trip of the year down to Devon, to take on Torquay United at Plainmoor. Let's take a closer look into The Gulls, and what to expect from the tie...
Founded: 1899
Nickname: The Gulls
Stadium: Plainmoor Stadium Capacity: 6,500 Manager: Paul Wotton
The History:
A well-known, established footballing side with endless amounts of history, Torquay United was born on 1st May, 1899. With the creation of the club and things starting to set out, it wasn't until 1921 where the club merged with Babbacombe to become the club they are today. Playing in the Western league during these years, the club achieved silverware in 1927 and for the first time ever in their history, became a football league club after being crowned champions. In 2006/07, the club unfortunately suffered back to back relegations, ending an 80 year spell as a football league side, putting them in non-league.
The Gaffer - Paul Wotton
An individual who knows the South-West well, is Paul Wotton. Born in Plymouth, whilst also coming up through The Pilgrims ranks as a player, the forty-seven year old also played for Southampton, Oxford United and Yeovil Town. Now well into his managerial career, Paul has also taken the reigns at fellow National League South side Truro City, spending just shy of four years with The Tinners.
The Skipper - Oscar Threlkeld
A player with experience at both National League and EFL level, is Oscar Threlkeld. Despite being on a one-year contract with The Gulls, the thirty-year old played for Bolton Wanderers in his youth career, working his way up through the youth system before playing at Salford, Plymouth, Bradford, Oldham & Belgium first division side, Waasland-Beveren.
The vastly experienced centre-back, can also play in a number of positions such as right-back and holding midfield, just showing the individual's versatility.
One To Watch - Will Jenkins-Davies
Twenty year old loanee, Will Jenkins-Davies, has played a pivotal part in The Gulls success this season so far. Recently named in the Vanarama National League South Team Of The Half Season, the young attacking midfielder has risen through the ranks at his parent club, Plymouth Argyle, were he featured for The Pilgrims a handful of times last season. In a loan deal that was intended to be short-term, it was recently announced that Jenkins-Davies stay at Plainmoor, would be extended until the end of the season. With the ability to create chances, whilst also picking up goals, Jenkins-Davies is most certainly one to watch.
Last Time Out
Our last fixture against Torquay United, dates back to the 16th December 2023, in a disappointing 3-2 defeat at Plainmoor. Two goals inside the opening 12 minutes from a Joe Iaciofano spot kick, and Kyle Ajayi header was not enough to overcome The Gulls as a late Dean Moxey strike ensured the hosts secured all three points. This would not be the end of the action, as minutes later Brett McGavin picked up a second yellow card and was dismissed by the referee.
Let's end away days for 2024, on a high! Onto tomorrow, see you then Tudors.
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