Torpoint Athletic Thirds - 2019/20

[Shouter]

Opening Fixture!

Saturday 17 August - ECPL

St Dominick 2, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 3

Goals: Tom Rowe (3), Chris Westall (34), Will Ferguson (80)

The Thirds are stepping into the unknown a little this season as the restructure of the senior leagues has given us the opportunity to enter the ECPL after many years competing in the Duchy League. It's a bold move by the club, but one that we welcome and hope that, with 3 sides now playing at senior level, will benefit the club as a whole.

St Dominick have had an impressive pre-season and we knew this fixture would be tough. It didn't disappoint.

I don't think many would disagree that, on the whole, the home side were probably the better side over the 90 minutes. That said, Torpoint defended resolutely and had goalkeeper Matt Westall to thank for one particularly outstanding double save in the second period. Torpoint did have their moments though and caused the St Dominick defence some problems with their pace and persistence on the counter attack.

Tom Rowe opened the scoring after only 3 minutes when St Dom failed to clear a Jay Hussey corner and, after some penalty-box pinball, Rowe poked home from close range. Against the run of play, the visitors found themselves 2-0 up when Chris Westall connected with another Hussey corner to glance into the far corner. We couldn't believe our luck! St Dom pulled one back just before half time, although from where I was standing, 'keeper Matt Westall appeared to have been fouled as the ball sailed in straight from a right-wing corner. HT St Dom 1-2 Torpoint.

The second half followed much the same pattern - St Dom pushing hard with Torpoint soaking up pressure and trying to hit on the counter. The pressure finally told when St Dom won a corner and, during a penalty box mele, a player was adjudged to have been fouled and the referee pointed to the spot. Although Matt Westall got a hand to the ball, it squirmed under his grasp and found the back of the net for 2-2. Game on!

Both sides had chances to take the lead from this moment. Both sides had penalty shouts waived away. Both keepers were called into action on more than one occasion. But it was Torpoint who finished stronger and it was substitute Will Ferguson who was rewarded after a typically persistent run into the box and a slightly scuffed finish into the corner. Ferguson almost made it 4-2 in the closing stages, but for a good save from the home keeper.

On the whole, pleased to pick up the points - even if they may have been slightly undeserved on balance of play. Counter that with 8 players unavailable on the day, a 16-year old Joe Harmer making his debut at left back and two other 16-year olds on the bench - not to mention the really long grass - and there's much more to come from Torpoint this season (I hope).

 

Torpoint (4-2-3-1): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Jake White, Chris Westall, Joe Harmer; Tom Rowe, Jay Hussey; Callum Thomas, Byron Robbins, Bahroz Zad; Adam Parry.

Subs used: Sam Rosevear, Youssef Yousefi, Will Ferguson.

Subs not used: Josh Payn, Adam Blair.

MOM: Matt Westall - unbelievable double save in the second half.

 

[ECPL]

Two good looking teams, both should do well. 

[Shouter]

Wednesday 21 August 2019 - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 4, Looe Town 1

Goals: Danny Rogers (14), Lewis Young (45), Elliott Crawford (51), Youssef Yousefi (80)

I'm not sure what the neutrals would have thought, but it wasn't the prettiest game and certainly not one for the purist. Again, Torpoint struggled to pass the ball and we gave away possession cheaply, handing opportunities to a Looe side that, respectfully, we should have put away by half time. If not for the last ditch defending, good goalkeeping and a better final ball, we would have been out of sight.

That said, it's early days, we have players to come back in and there are some young lads out there that will only get better. We are trying to play the right way and while we're not firing on all cylinders, that's 6 points in two games, with much more to come. Credit to Looe who made life very difficult for us.

Two very tough tests coming up in the next 7 days!

 

Torpoint (4-2-3-1): Matt Westall; Jake White, Chris Westall, Danny Rogers, Joe Harmer; Tom Rowe, Jay Hussey; Sam Rosevear, Byron Robbins, Bahroz Zad; Lewis Young.

Subs used: Elliott Crawford, Youssef Yousefi, Callum Thomas, Alex Richardson, Adam Blair.

MOM: Jay Hussey - showed good quality in possession and used the ball intelligently.

 

[falselights]

Reference MOM - I thought Jay was excellent.

[Shouter]

Saturday 24 August - ECPL

Foxhole Stars 5, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Youssef Yousefi (41), Luke Gibbons (71)

Goverseth is a tough place to go at the best of times, but to travel there with 10 players unavailable, players drafted in at the last minute and the proverbial square pegs in round holes all over the pitch, it was always going to be especially difficult. That's not taking anything away from Foxhole who, on the day fully deserved the victory and in Tyler Cheshire, have a player that is destined to play at a much higher level surely. He was simply unplayable today.

I thought the first half was fairly evenly contested. Foxhole we typically aggressive and direct, while Torpoint looked to soak up pressure, then play out from the back at pace. Both sides created chances and both goalkeepers had work to do. Unfortunately, two mistakes led to two very soft goals conceded before Youssef Yousefi pulled one back just before half time. At half time, we really felt we were in it.

The reality was, in the second half, Foxhole cranked up both the pressure and quality while the cracks in our patched up side started to show. Two quick fire goals knocked the stuffing out of us to take the game to 4-1, but we did manage to capitalise on a period of sustained pressure to score a second and give us a sniff; but Foxhole scored immediately after the restart to finish the game as a contest.

Special mention to goalkeeper Scott Johnstone, making his debut under difficult circumstances, but making some good saves and communicated well, Luke Gibbons for making himself available at short notice to play out of position (and managing to score), and to skipper Chris Westall coming off the bench to play through the pain barrier to help his side out. A tough day, but pleased with the effort.

Fair play to Foxhole. They're good at what they do. We look forward to the return fixture at The Mill on 17th September.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Scott Johnstone; Callum Bays, Tom Booth, Luke Gibbons, Joe Harmer; Tom Rowe, Sam White, Youssef Yousefi; Sam Rosevear, Adam Parry, Jay Hussey.

Subs used: Chris Westall, Will Ferguson, Byron Robbins, Chris Warren.

Sub not used: Adam Brayson.

MOM: Youssef Yousefi - never stopped running for his side.

 

[baldy]

Tyler Cheshire has already played at Step 6, 2 or 3 or 4 years ago.

[Shouter]

35 minutes ago, baldy said:

Tyler Cheshire has already played at Step 6, 2 or 3 or 4 years ago.

Well, he needs to go back there by the time we play them again!! Superb on the day.

[Leemccheese365]

Hopefully ur 10 out will be back to play mount gold 

[Shouter]

Wednesday 28 August 2019 - ECPL

Mount Gould 4, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 0

For the benefit of the Foxhole Twitter trolls, 2 of the 10 missing on Saturday returned, so only 8 unavailable this time!!

Nevertheless, we were handed a football lesson against a very strong Mount Gould side that, in my opinion, will take some stopping this season. I have no doubt, we will not play a better side this season and, frankly, we had our asses handed to us over the 90mins.

We always knew it was going to be tough and our plan was to frustrate and contain, then hope to grab something on the break. After a bright opening few minutes, we completely shot ourselves in the foot and gifted the opening goal after only 9mins. Two more howlers followed, giving MG a 3-0 half time lead and the game was over as a contest. Some harsh words were exchanged at HT and there was an improvement in desire and commitment in the second period but, in all honesty, all the quality came from Mount Gould and they eventually added a fourth midway through the second period. 

For some reason MG became frustrated in the closing stages and managed to get 2 players sin-binned and 1 sent off, then gave away a penalty that was subsequently missed. 

We deserved nothing from this game. You have to earn the right to play football by being prepared to do the hard work first and foremost. We fell well short of expextation in that respect. We move on.

 

Torpoint (4-4-1-1): Scott Johnstone; Tom Booth, Chris Westall, Ross Richardson, Glen Cleland; Sam Rosevear, Jon Farmer, Sam White, Youssef Yousefi; Jay Hussey; Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Joe Harmer, Adam Parry, Callum Thomas, Adam Brayson, Tom Rowe.

MOM: N/A

[Leemccheese365]

Not a Twitter troll just hopeing  they were all back to face a class  mount gold side they will take some stopping this season 

[Shouter]

Saturday 31 August 2019 - ECPL

North Petherwin 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Will Ferguson (39), Sam White (80)

Torpoint returned to winning ways with a hard fought but thoroughly deserved victory at a stubborn North Petherwin.

The first half was fairly evenly contested with both sides having chances to take the lead. Bahroz Zad, Will Ferguson and Jay Hussey all went close, while some slightly better finishing from the home side might have seen them find the net also. Defender Ross Richardson found himself in the sin-bin midway through the period, for appealing a handball! Yes, no swearing, no aggression, no hounding the referee, just appealing a decision from all of 20 yards away! Very bizarre in my view and an example how over-officious referees could use it to assert their authority in the wrong way. After all that however, Ferguson opened scoring late in the first half with a typical bustling run, avoided being brought down by the keeper, staying on his feet to find the net. 

Torpoint were in control of the game for the majority of the second period with keeper Matt Westall rarely troubled. Zad, Callum Thomas and substitute Tom Rowe all should have increased the lead but a combination of poor finishing and good goalkeeping kept the home side in the game. Fellow substitute Sam White eventually sealed the game when a Tom Rowe through ball sat up beautifully for him to volley into the top corner from 20 yards. Further chances went begging as Torpoint finished much the stronger, but credit to North Petherwin who never make it easy for us!

Clean sheet. Three points. Job done!

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Chris Westall, Ross Richardson, Glen Cleland; Youssef Yousefi, Adam Brayson, Jay Hussey; Callum Thomas, Will Ferguson, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Tom Booth, Adam Parry, Tom Rowe, Chris Warren, Sam White.

MOM: Adam Brayson - won every tackle, dominated the midfield exchanges and used the ball well.

[Ian Pethick]

Really good coverage. Great to see the ECPL getting attention, was in danger of becoming a forgotten league with the Peninsula League split and the forming of the St Piran League.

Agree with earlier point though, Mount Gould will take a lot of stopping in the ECPL this season.

[Shouter]

Wednesday 4 September 2019 - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 3, St Cleer 6

Goals: Ross Richardson (54), Chris Westall (74 pen), Adam Parry (76)

Two days on and I'm still trying to get my head around this one. We have a good management setup at both the club and for this side in particular. People that give up time, money and effort to ensure that all these lads have to do is, it turn up and be committed. The two 45 minute displays we got from this team on Wednesday was poles apart. The first was nothing short of a disgrace in terms of desire and commitment, not to mention ability and decision making. It was embarrassing to watch. The second period was full of drive, determination and ultimately a good footballing display which nearly got us back into a game that was gone by half time.

The first two goals, after just 7 and 12 minutes, were mind boggling. Both corners which managed to beat the near post and somehow numerous bodies in the six yard box before finding the back of the net via numerous deflections. It was Keystone Cops stuff. St Cleer found themselves 3-0 up on 39 minutes when a simple run and straight ball caught out a static defensive setup for their player to run through and slot past Matt Westall. A minute later and some neat play from the away side in midfield carved open the Torpoint defense and a powerful finish saw them go in at the half time break with a 4-0 advantage.

Changes were made, words were exchanged, and the second period was a completely different picture. Torpoint took the game to St Cleer and played with much more vigour and urgency. Defender Ross Richardson pulled one back, heading in a Sam Rosevear cross on 54 minutes. Tails were up and there was some belief. Bahroz Zad, youngster Dan Place and Rosevear all went close before the latter had a point blank header saved on the line when it seemed easier to score. It was all Torpoint. A change of shape to 3-4-3 threw caution to the wind and, on 74 minutes, Adam Parry was brought down in the box leaving skipper Chris Westall to power from the spot home to make it 2-4. Two minutes later, more good work from Parry saw him burst into the box, round the keeper finish clinically to get us within a goal. 3-4!! Could we? Zad went close once more and another loud penalty appeal was turned away.

Torpoint were pushing hard for the equaliser but, as is the case in these situations, you do tend to leave the back door open a bit and St Cleer hit on the break to score an excellent fifth, before killing the game off in the closing stages with a fantastic finish to make it 6 - which, given the way we fought back from 4-0 down was a little harsh in my view. All in all, well played to St Cleer on the night, they played some great football (particularly in the first period) and scored a couple of cracking goals, but I can't help thinking that we made it far too easy for them in the first half and, once again, gifted someone a 3-0 headstart. We can't keep doing that.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Jake White, Chris Westall, Ross Richardson, Tom Booth; Tom Rowe, Adam Brayson, Jay Hussey; Callum Thomas, Adam Parry, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Callum Bays, Youssef Yousefi, Danny Rogers, Sam Rosevear, Daniel Place.

MOM: Daniel Place - young substitute showed real quality when introduced under difficult circumstances

 

[JonColenzo]

Thanks for the write up and great hospitality, on our side of the coin, three sin bins in the second half didn’t help our cause !

[Shouter]

Saturday 7 September 2019 - ECPL

St Minver 1, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 1

Goal: Cameron Dymond (75)

A much better performance all round from Torpoint after the disappointing midweek display and result.

Both sides started brightly, with Torpoint doing most of the pressing and going close on a couple of occasions, particularly from set pieces. 16-year olds Elliott O'Connor and Joe Ackerlay linked up well in the opening stages, while the pace of Will Ferguson and Adam Parry was a threat from the off. St Minver had spells though and arguable the best chance of the game but missed the target. The home side did take the lead on 36 minutes, against the run of play, when they broke quickly and caught their visitors off guard. Two minutes later, the game took a turn, when Torpoint striker Parry was shown a straight red card for kicking out at an opponent. Pure frustration and he knew what he'd done straight away - but no complaints with the sending off.

Torpoint rallied in the second period and set up in a 4-4-1, frustrating St Minver with two solid banks of four, then hitting on the break when the chance came. This worked well, with substitute Cameron Dymond causing problems down the right teamed up with skipper Chirs Westall, Will Ferguson's endeavor through the middle with support from midfield and a resolute back line with Jake White the stand out at centre back. The away side pushed hard and found the St Minver keeper in good form, but eventually the pressure told when Will Ferguson dispossessed the defender, allowing Dymond to run through, round the keeper to finish.

Both teams had spells in the closing minutes, but 10-man Torpoint still finished the stronger with St Minver becoming frustrated at their inability to capitalise on their numerical advantage. Both Dymond and Tom Booth going close when it seemed certain they would bag the winner, while Matt Westall stood firm under late aerial bombardment. Overall, pleased with a point in the circumstances, but can't help being slightly disappointed we didn't take all 3 points.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Glen Cleland; Adam Brayson, Ross Richardson, Elliott O'Connor; Joe Ackerlay, Adam Parry, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Tom Booth (HT), Tom Rowe (HT), Cameron Dymond (HT), Alex Richardson (68), Ryan Steel (79).

Sent off: Adam Parry (38)

MOM: Jake White - didn't miss a header or tackle all came. Classy.

[Shouter]

Tuesday 10 September 2019 - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2, Plymouth Marjon Reserves 0

Goals: Own Goal (25), Chris Westall (77 pen)

A fairly comfortable victory under the lights at The Mill, but a failure to take chances meant that a young and enthusiastic Marjon side were always in the game.

The home side started brightly, playing some neat possession football. Henry Bunning, Will Ferguson and Dan Place all went close in the opening stages, while Chris Westall, Tom Rowe  and Pace all saw first-half chances go begging. By the time Torpoint eventually took the lead on 25mins, they should probably have been at least 3-0 up. A Ross Richardson free kick was punched into the air by the visiting keeper, only to see the ball drop onto the line and go in off a defender. Unfortunate for the young lad, who played well overall on the night.

So Torpoint went into the break with a 1-0 advantage, positive that they had played well enough to be more comfortable, but weary that the chances had not been taken and that Marjon were still very much in the game. A slight change of shape and the introduction of 3 substitutes hoped to capitalise, but in reality it knocked the rhythm and the second period was a much more disjointed affair. Marjons came more into the game, while Torpoint became frustrated and nervous in possession. A further change was made, reverting back to the first half system and things immediately looked more comfortable. Adam Parry should have scored on two occasions, both Bahroz Zad and Place had the ball in the net, only to be ruled out for offside, while Will Ferguson also had opportunities but failed to get his efforts away. The second goal finally arrived on 77 mins when Parry was brought down in the box. Chris Westall emphatically put away the penalty, only for referee Ian Spurling to order a retake due to encroachment. Skipper Westall dispatched his second attempt to ensure 3 points for his side.

Have to give credit to Marjon. A very young side who continued to try and play the right way throughout. We simply didn't take the chances on the night and for that reason, Marjon were always in the game and, if not for some good defending and a little bit of luck, they could have made things much more difficult for us.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Tom Booth; Tom Rowe, Ross Richardson, Adam Brayson; Dan Place, Henry Bunning, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Glen Cleland (HT), Adam Parry (HT), Bahroz Zad (HT), Alex Richardson (78), Ryan Steel (78).

Booked: Chris Westall

MOM: Danny Rogers - like a fine wine, getting better with age!

 

[Shouter]

Tuesday 24 September - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 3, St Stephen 2

Goals: Tom Booth (12), Ryan Steel (84), Chris Westall (89)

A great game for the neutral at The Mill with some late drama as the home side came from behind to take all 3 points and move up to third place in the table, albeit having played more games than the sides around them.

The home side started brightly, playing some attractive football and creating a couple of early chances which failed to find the net. Full back Tom Booth opened the scoring after 12 minutes when his persistence and strength on the edge of the box enabled him to create enough space to find the bottom corner. St Stephen responded almost immediately when they were awarded a contentious free kick 20-yards from goal. There was no debate about the finish though as the St Stephen No 10 found the top corner giving Matt Westall in the home goal no chance. Great strike!

As has been the case many times this season, Torpoint were the architects of their own problems when St Stephen took the lead on 26 minutes. The home side were caught trying to play out from the back, St Stephen pounced and punished some sloppy defensive work. The remainder of the second period largely belonged to St Stephen as the goals appeared to knock the stuffing out of Torpoint who ended the half a yard off the pace all over the pitch. HT 1-2.

Torpoint rallied at half time and, with the introduction of Jay Hussey and Sam White, together with Curtis Damerell moving into the No 10 position, the second half was an entirely different story. The home side played with more urgency and desire, moved the ball forward much more quickly and stopped overplaying. Chris Westall, Dan Place and Damerell all went close to finding the equaliser, Damerell and Ross Richardson both forced incredible saves from the St Stephen keeper, while it has to be said, they defended extremely well with countless headed goal line clearances.

Just when we though it wasn't going to be our day, the equalizer finally came. A Hussey corner was headed clear to find Richardson on the edge of the box and his effort appeared to be going wide only for substitute Ryan Steel - on for Booth at left back - to direct the ball into the net with a glance of the head. Fully deserved. Sam White then had a chance to get the winner, but his loose touch after being played in by Damerell, allowed the keeper to close down and gather. With seconds ticking away, skipper Chris Westall now playing up front, was found on the edge of the box by Callum Bays, his turn was instant, he spotted the advancing keeper and delightfully chipped him from 18-yards to spark wild celebrations. FT 3-2.

I appreciate that St Stephen were a little depleted today - a bout of D&V by all accounts and at one point in the afternoon it was unclear whether they would make the journey - but they still had a good side out there tonight and took some beating. Our second half performance was excellent and I'm sincerely hoping the penny has dropped.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Tom Booth; Tom Rowe, Ross Richardson, Adam Brayson; Dan Place, Curtis Damerell, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Jay Hussey (HT), Sam White (HT), Callum Bays (74), Sam Rosevear (78), Ryan Steel (78).

MOM: Chris Westall - real captain's performance and dragged his side over the line. Superbly taken winner.

 

[Shouter]

Friday 4 October - ECPL Cup First Round

Newquay Reserves 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 5

Goals: Dan Place (26, 45), Ross Richardson (37), Bahroz Zad (49), Sam Rosevear (59)

Torpoint progressed to the quarter finals of the League Cup with a comfortable win over Newquay under the lights at Mount Wise.

The opening exchanges were relatively evenly contested. Matt Westall was forced into a great save after only 10mins, while Will Ferguson and Dan Place should probably have found the net for the away side when decent opportunities came their way. However, it was Torpoint who did eventually open the scoring on 26mins when youngster Dan Place found space on the edge of the box and his tame shot looked certain to be saved, but the home keeper let it squirm through his legs and over the line. It was soon 2-0 when a deep Jay Hussey corner was met by the head of Ross Richardson before Place made it 3-0 on the stroke of half time when he got the faintest of touches (allegedly) to a wicked Hussey free-kick. HT 0-3.

Torpoint took control in the second period and had numerous opportunities to increase the lead. Bahroz Zad finished off the move - and goal of the night - after some great work down the right from Chris Westall and Sam Rosevear, for the latter to deliver an inch perfect cross for Zad to smash home. Rosevear himself grabbed the fifth, finishing from close range after another goalkeeping error. The game was over as a contest after just 60mins and there was a more relaxed feel about the game. There were still ample opportunities for Torpoint to increase their lead, but the best came after Rosevear was brough down in the box and skipper Chris Westall handed penalty duties over to Place, but the 16-year old was denied a hat-trick when his attempt was scuffed straight to the keeper. In his defence, the penalty spot was about 2 inches lower than the rest of the area!!

Both sides tried to play football on a very difficult surface but the game was never in doubt once Torpoint grabbed the opener.

 

Torpoint (4-2-3-1): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Glen Cleland; Ross Richardson, Adam Brayson; Sam White, Jay Hussey, Will Ferguson; Dan Place.

Subs used: Bahroz Zad (HT), Tom Rowe (HT), Sam Rosevear (HT), Byron Robbins (70), Ryan Steel (70).

MOM: Chris Westall - left nothing on the pitch and showed real quality in possession of the ball.

[Shouter]

Tuesday 15 October - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 4, North Petherwin 1

Goals: Chris Westall (7pen), Ashley O'Rourke (16), Dan Place (31), Tom Rowe (56)

Torpoint picked up their fourth win on the spin and go unbeaten in their last five with this win over a resilient North Petherwin at The Mill.

The home side started much the brighter and could have gone in front in the opening minute when Ashley O'Rourke - back at The Mill after a spell elsewhere - sent teenager Dan Place away, only for him to be brought down in the box as he seemed certain to score. Referee Pete Sowden amazingly waived away appeals. However, minutes later an almost identical move saw the same result, this time Mr Sowden pointed to the spot and skipper Chris Westall dispatched it with ease.

Torpoint soon found themselves 2-0 up when a corner was cleared to O'Rourke who helped the ball back towards goal only to see it loop over the keeper and into the top corner - great effort Ash!! However, the visitors immediately got back into the game when some slack defending allowed the Petherwin striker freedom to get a shot away which was well saved by Matt Westall, however the loose ball was superbly finished into the top corner from a tight angle. This proved to be a shot in the arm for Torpoint who regained control and dominated proceedings and eventually restored their two-goal advantage on 31 minutes when a superb through-ball from Sam Rosevear found the run of Place, who clipped the ball over the advancing keeper. HT 3-1.

The second period saw much of the same. Torpoint dominating and largely in control, but North Petherwin remaining dangerous on the occasional break. Torpoint had ample opportunity to put the game to bed with the returning Adam Parry missing two good chances, while winger Bahroz Zad missed the target when it seemed easier to score. Substitute Tom Rowe eventually grabbed the fourth with a great finish from 12 yards on the angle, before he almost added a fifth with a left footed effort from inside the box. Youngster Joe Harmer also went close in the closing stages.

The bizare moment of the game came in the final couple of minutes when Mr Sowden berated the Torpoint manage for making too many substitutions!

On the whole, three points secured against a side that we have always found difficult to play against. Not the greatest performance, but we got the job done.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Ashley O'Rourke; Mike Roberts, Ross Richardson, Adam Brayson; Sam Rosevear, Dan Place, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Tom Rowe (HT), Adam Parry (HT), Ronei Yousefi (HT), Joe Harmer (75), Ryan Steel (76).

MOM: Ashley O'Rourke - calm and classy in possession with immaculate distribution.

 

 

[Shouter]

Saturday 19 October 2019 - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 7, Gerrans & St Mawes Utd 3

Goals: Adam Parry (3, 34, 47), Tom Rowe (32), Chris Westall (59), Will Ferguson (64), Ronei Yousefi (84)

There was a 10-goal extravaganza at The Mill as a depleted Torpoint stretched their unbeaten run to 6 games in all competitions. The game never looked beyond doubt for the home side, but some soft goals and slack defending, gifting the visitors three goals, meaning that Gerrans were always within touch.

Long term injuries to Byron Robbins, James Robertson and Glen Cleland will keep them out of the side for the foreseeable future, midfielder Sam White is still in the Belize jungle wrestling snakes, while Bahroz Zad, Adam Brayson, Ash O'Rourke were all unavailable today. Young midfielder Adam Blair was called up from the U18s, while first team striker Lee Hawkins was given his first run out in 6 weeks after a calf injury.

Torpoint opened the scoring as early as the third minute as Chris Westall fed striker Hawkins in the left channel, he beat his marker and squared the ball across goal to find Adam Parry who finished clinically from 6 yards. It was pretty much one way traffic from that point, with Hawkins, Parry and Sam Rosevear all finding themselves in positions that should have extended the lead. It took until the 32nd minute for Torpoint to finally do so when a right corner from Jay Hussey was volleyed off-target by Hawkins, Parry kept the ball alive though and his cross found Rosevear, whose header was missed, before Tom Rowe crashed the ball into the roof of the net from close range. Two minutes later Parry grabbed his second of the game, receiving a neat pass from Rosevear, shifting onto his left and curling past the visitors' keeper and in off the post. Gerrans were awarded a life-line on the stroke of half time when a short back pass from Jake White - who in fariness had just received treatment for a clash of knees - was intercepted and  Charlie Jones who poked the ball past the stranded Matt Westall. HT 3-1.

Parry completed his hat-trick within 2 minutes of the restart after great hold up play from Hawkins fed Ronei Yousefi, who run and cross was met first time by a rejuvenated Parry. At this point Torpoint threatened to run away with the game but, as has happened so many times this season, they were architects of their own downfall. Some sloppy midfield play, poor marking and failure to deal with a simple cross gave Isaac Hayhurst the freedom of the six-yard box to score. However, Torpoint rallied and Chris Westall was played in by Hawkins to make it 5-2 on 55mins and then a great run and finish by substitute Will Ferguson made it 6-2 on 64mins. Charlie Jones grabbed his second of the game for Gerrans after more poor defensive work from the home side before Ronei Yousefi got the seventh on 84mins finishing off another good move, heading in at the far post.

It's always great to score 7 goals, but we can't help but be a little frustrated at the 3 conceded and the manner in which they were. The game was probably entertaining for the spectators, which is great... but we're still conceding too many soft goals!

Credit to GSM who were gracious in defeat and all stayed in the bar after the game to enjoy the chilli con carne and a couple of drinks before their long trip home. Thank you lads!

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Chris Westall; Sam Rosevear, Tom Rowe, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Lee Hawkins, Ronei Yousefi.

Subs used: Will Ferguson (55), Ryan Steel (65), Adam Blair (74)

MOM: Adam Parry - back with a bang! Worked hard and took his goals well.

[Shouter]

Wednesday 23 October - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 1, St Minver 1

Goal: Dan Place (71)

Torpoint missed the chance to go top of the ECPL after St Minver grabbed an injury time equaliser in a superb game of football at The Mill.

Both sides came into the game in some kind of form. Torpoint were unbeaten in 6 after an inconsistent start to the campaign, while St Minver themselves had only lost once this season, to current leaders Foxhole Stars. The sides had also already met at St Minver back in early September when Torpoint fought back to draw 1-1 after being reduced to 10-men just before half-time, so this already looked like it would be a close encounter before a ball was even kicked. It didn't disappoint.

The game started at a frantic pace, but there was a fair degree of quality from both sides. St Minver looked after the ball better and played some very neat attractive football, without really penetrating Torpoint's defensive shape, while the home side countered well and looked dangerous every time they went forward. Torpoint were dealt a blow after just 20 mins when Adam Parry - fresh from a weekend hat-trick - pulled up and appeared to have damaged a hamstring. Winger Bahroz Zad was introduced. 

Clear chances were at a premium for both sides. St Minver looked dangerous from set pieces and dominated possession for longer periods, with Torpoint working extremely hard to close gaps and keep shape, but the home side looked most likely to score in open play, with Zad and Ronei Yousefi causing problems in the wide areas, linking well with young striker Dan Place and midfield support coming in the shape of Mike Roberts and Sam Rosevear. The best chance did fall to St Minver though. A mix up between Ash O'Rourke and keeper Matt Westall allowed the St Minver striker to run through on goal only for his effort on the angle to come off the foot of the post with Westall standed. HT 0-0.

While St Minver shaded the first half, the second was dominated by Torpoint who played at a higher tempo and never gave their opponents time to settle and pass the ball. Chris Westall, Yousefi and Place all went close to opening the scoring, while at the opposite end Matt Westall was rarely troubled in open play with the visitors' best opportunities coming from set pieces. The pressure finally told on 71 mins when Torpoint broke at pace, Dyer released Zad on the left wing who drove towards the penalty area and fizzed the ball across goal where Place clinically finished to put his side 1-0 up. St Minver pressed hard for an equaliser but still, their best chances came from set pieces where they found the Torpoint rear guard in stubborn form. Place threatened to add a second with a curled effort from the edge of the box, substitute Adam Brayson had a effort blocked in the penalty area (by a hand - although a penalty would probably have been harsh) and Zad had two efforts from distance which narrowly missed the target. The best fell to Dyer though, whose lung busting run from midfield found him on the end of a Zad cross, but his first time effort hit the post and spun away for a goal kick.

With seconds ticking away, and all the Torpoint support staring at their watches, it was 5 minutes into injury time when St Minver were awarded a free kick 25 yards out to the right of the penalty area. The delivery was fierce but it clipped the top of the defensive wall which changed the trajectory on it's way to goal and found the head of Joe Combellack, followed by the back of the net from close range. A sucker punch that - and in my opinion - was a little unfair on the balance of play over the 90 minutes. Referee Steve Nute blew immediately after the restart. FT 1-1.

There were some slightly unsavory scenes at the end of the game, with players and management involved in some pushing, shoving and verbal exchanges. On reflection, I think both sets of players and management could have handled that better, but with the late equaliser, the manner of the celebrations and some of the ridiculous gamesmanship and simulation going on during the second half, tension was a little high - some would say too high.

The game itself - was superb!

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Ash O'Rourke; Sam Rosevear, Kieran Dyer, Mike Roberts; Adam Parry, Dan Place, Ronei Yousefi.

Subs used: Bahroz Zad (20), Tom Towe (65), Adam Brayson (78), Jay Hussey (83).

Booked: Bahroz Zad, Adam Brayson

MOM: Kieran Dyer - broke up play superbly, hardly gave the ball away all night and supported at the right times.

 

[Shouter]

Saturday 16 November 2019 - ECPL

Veryan 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Will Ferguson (49, 67)

Unfortunately, I wasn't at the game due to illness, so the report will not be as detailed this time! By all accounts, the lads put on a superb display against a very strong and fancied Veryan side. Some unavailability and a late withdrawal meant we had to shuffle the pack a little, but everyone stood up and took the game by the scruff of the neck. So who needs me then?

Eight games unbeaten - all of the top eight played at least once - and none of the bottom four played. A solid start to life in the ECPL.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Ben West, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Chris Westall; Sam Rosevear, Josh Lashbrook, Dan Tate; Adam Parry, Dan Place, Ronei Yousefi.

Subs used: Will Ferguson (HT), Jay Hussey (61), Tom Rowe (69), Byron Robbins (85).

Sub not used: Callum Bays.

MOM: Sam Rosevear - like man possessed. Covered every blade of grass on the pitch and used the ball superbly.

 

[Shouter]

Tuesday 26 November 2019 - ECPL Cup Quarter Final

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2, Plymouth Marjon Reserves 0 (Played at Marjon)

Goals: Own Goal (20), Jay Hussey (45)

With a number of players unavailable through injury and work commitments, we were grateful for the support from our First, Second and Fourth teams in bolstering the squad. That may not go down well with some, but we are one club rather than four individual teams and, in my view, that's how it should be. Ironically, I don't think the changes in personnel helped us at all. Overall, we were disjointed and unbalanced, while the conditions also didn't contribute to the quality of the game.

Torpoint started strongly and took the game to their young Marjon opponents. Bahroz Zad immediately linking well with young Matt Ottley at left back and creating an early chance which whistled past the post from 10 yards. The visitors forced two corners in the opening minutes with wicked deliveries from Jay Hussey resulting in opportunities for both Lee Hawkins and the evergreen Danny Rogers. It looked as though it was going to be one-way traffic, but once the game settled down, Marjon started to pass the ball better and give their visitors the run around. However, the Torpoint defence stayed strong and well marshaled, with the only danger coming from long balls in behind with their pacey forwards giving chase.

It was 20 minutes in when Torpoint eventually - and deservedly - took the lead. A surging run down the right by Adam Parry and neat ball to Lee Hawkins in the right hand channel, saw the latter turn and drive across the face of the goal. With Zad and Hussey waiting to pounce, the ball went in off the out-stretched leg of a Marjon defender. From that moment, Torpoint appeared to take their foot off the gas a little and there were some sloppy moments, with the ball being given away in dangerous areas and some poor choices in possession through midfield. Marjon dominated the ball for a good 10-15 minute spell, but could not create a clear opportunity that troubled Matt Westall.

In the closing stages of the first half, Torpoint regained momentum though and started to take control of the game once more. Zad looked certain to score after being fed by Josh Lashbrook, only for a last ditch challenge doing enough to ensure he didn't get a clean strike and was comfortably saved by the home keeper. Adam Parry went close with a glancing header from a Hussey corner before Zad's acrobatic effort was off target after good work down the left flank. The second finally arrived when Zad drove at the Marjon defence and slipped a great ball into the path of Hussey's late run and he smashed into the corner from 10 yards. Enough chances were created in the first half for the tie to be over and done with. HT 2-0.

The second half was a painful watch. Numerous changes didn't help, but on the whole the quality just wasn't there. The conditions didn't help and it could not have been comfortable to play in, but nevertheless it wasn't at the standard we would normally expect. Marjon played the better football, but again could not create a clear opportunity. Torpoint defended well and when they did put some passes together and get into the forward areas, looked most likely to score. Zad, Dan Place and Chris Westall all went close, without adding to the score. The game petered out in the closing stages and was very much a case of, get the game won and get out of there!! Pleased to keep another clean sheet!

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Chris Westall, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Matt Ottley; Michael Lucas, Josh Lashbrook, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Lee Hawkins, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Dan Place (HT), Adam Brayson (HT), Kieran Dyer (HT), Ross Richardson (60), Josh Payn (65).

MOM: Bahroz Zad - a constant menace with his direct running and work rate. Unlucky not to get a hat-trick tonight.

[Shouter]

   On 03/12/2019 at 20:36,  ECPL said: 

Unfortunately Torpoint Athletic have been removed from the League Cup due to playing ineligible players.  This means Plymouth Marjon are re instated  

Gotta say, we are very disappointed to find this out via the forum before official notice from the league, but hey, it changes nothing.

Unfortunately, this was a pure admin error as the team management were not aware, or made aware, of Cup Rule 28, meaning that for quarter finals players must have played at least 3 league fixtures.

We had a number of players unavailable for this fixture so drafted in some support. Unfortunately we played 2 players who had not made an appearance previously.

While we are bitterly disappointed to be removed from the competition, rules are rules. We respect the leagues decision and wish Marjon the best of luck in the semi final.

I would add, this fixture was scheduled to be played at The Mill but, due to the horrendous weather, we offered to switch the fixture to Marjon in order to get it played. In hindsight, considering our lack of availability, we would have been better following other clubs’ lead and simply postponing the fixture in lieu of us being “unable to raise a side”?!

[Dave Deacon]

17 hours ago, Shouter said:

Gotta say, we are very disappointed to find this out via the forum before official notice from the league, but hey, it changes nothing.

I’ve been led to understand the league Torpoint’s football secretary was notified on Sunday,1st.December

[ECPL]

Yes, Torpoint were in formed on 1st December, my positing was 3rd December  

[Dave Deacon]

6 minutes ago, ECPL said:

Yes, Torpoint were in formed on 1st December, my positing was 3rd December  

Yes I know the league told me. I was rather hoping Shouter might have responded! 

[ECPL]

It happens 

[Shouter]

Thanks for clarifying. Our Club Secretary was informed on Sunday 1 December that the rule had been breached - not that we had been expelled - and we were asked to respond. We responded on Monday 2 December but, to my knowledge, were not informed of the decision to expel until late on Wednesday 3 December? 

I'm not for one minute complaining about the decision here. The ECPL have applied the rules that we all signed up to and we can have no complaints. I'm merely pointing out that it would appear that Mr Potham knew before we (the management) did, which is disappointing - from an internal perspective as well as an external one.

It's over. We move on and learn from it.

10 hours ago, Dave Deacon said:

Yes I know the league told me. I was rather hoping Shouter might have responded! 

I'm not sat in front of Cornwall Football Forum 24/7 Dave! Give me a chance mate!! 

[Dave Deacon]

21 minutes ago, Shouter said:

10 hours ago, Dave Deacon said:

I'm not sat in front of Cornwall Football Forum 24/7 Dave! Give me a chance mate!! 

You need to get that sorted! 😀😀😀

[Shouter]

Saturday 7 December 2019 - ECPL

Roche 3, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Sam Rosevear (49), Jay Hussey (64)

It's fair to say we played poorly, particularly in the first half. However, sometimes you don't have to play well to win games of football. Good shape, discipline and making good simple decisions in possession of the ball can often get you over the line when all the guns aren't firing. We've done it a couple of times this season, but at Roche, we conspired to be the architects of our own downfall and lose a game of football we created enough chances in to win comfortably.

The grass was long and the surface very soft indeed - but it was playable, so no complaints there - it was the same for both sides, but it was certainly not conducive to a flowing attractive passing game. This game was most certainly not one of those!

Roche were the better side in the opening 45 minutes, adapting to the surface much better than their visitors. That said, other than the odd effort from distance and a couple of deep crosses into young keeper Cai Mansfield, the better chances still fell to Torpoint forwards who found the Roche defense and 'keeper in stubborn mood. Nevertheless, it was the home side that did find the net on 35 minutes after a high cross was not dealt with and a poor clearance eventually ended with a simple finish from close range. HT 1-0

Torpoint started the second period on the front foot and were much more positive. Bahroz Zad and Will Ferguson both went close, while Jay Hussey's delivery from set pieces also created havoc in the Roche penalty area, but the visitors did not capitalise. Eventually the pressure did pay dividends after 49 minutes when Sam Rosevear turned in a Hussey free kick at the far post to equalise. At that point there only looked like one winner, however some slack defensive play and failure to deal with a simple cross allowed Roche to go ahead again within 6 minutes.

Torpoint kept banging on the door though and the second equaliser of the game came directly from a Hussey free-kick. Again, the visitors looked likely to take control of the game from that point, but some more poor defensive play gave possession away on the edge of the box allowing the Roche striker to slot past the advancing Mansfield after 66 minutes. Still, bar an odd attack on the break, and one effort from distance that struck the base of the post, Roche rarely threatened. At the other end however, Adam Parry, Ferguson, Zad plus substitutes Dan Place and Byron Robbins all went close. In the final minute Torpoint were awared a penalty for a foul on Place, but skipper Chris Westall's effort was saved low to the keeper's left.

Overall, not a great performance, but we created more than enough chances to take all three points. Sometimes though, that's the way it goes and you hope that you can keep the back door locked tight to see out a narrow win... unfortunately we gave out a couple of early Christmas presents.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Cai Mansfield; Adam Brayson, Ryan Steel, Danny Rogers, Chris Westall; Sam Rosevear, Tom Rowe, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Will Ferguson, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Dan Place (68), Ronei Yousefi (68), Ben West (68), Sam White (75), Byron Robbins (82).

MOM: Bahroz Zad - worked tremendously hard for his side and never gave up the fight! 😉

[Shouter]

Saturday 28 December 2019 - ECPL

Plymouth Marjon Reserves 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 3

Goals: Dan Place (47, 80), Tom Rowe (53)

Torpoint returned to winning ways after the disappointing performance and result at Roche three weeks ago. Skipper Chris Westall missed his first game of the season, while Byron Robbins, Adam Brayson, Glen Cleland, Sam White and new signing George Birbeck were all unavailable. Danny Rogers donned the captains armband with Jake White, Alex Richardson and Dan Place returning and new signing Tom Rothwell added.

The visitors started strongly with Sam Rosevear, Bahroz Zad and Adam Parry all spurning opportunities to open the scoring in the first period. However, the home side settled into their passing game and arguable finished the stronger side. Their build up play was impressive, but they lacked the cutting edge to carve out any real clear cut chances. Marjon's best chances came from set pieces. Torpoint looked sluggish and disjointed. Ball retention and quality of passing was poor. A slight tweak to the formation in the latter stages of the first half with Mike Roberts moving into midfield and Jay Hussey to left back to provide some balance. HT 0-0

Torpoint introduced two substitutes at the interval, with striker Dan Place and midfielder Tom Rowe coming on. From that point, Torpoint were much the better side and it was Place who opened the scoring within 2 minutes of the restart, holding the ball up superbly and muscling past two defenders before finishing from close range. The game was pretty much one way traffic from that point, with Marjon restricted to break aways and set pieces, with 'keeper Matt Westall making one impressive save with his feet from a Marjon free-kick on the edge of the area. Rowe added the second on 53 minutes, making a late run from midfield to power home a header from Place's cross. Parry, Ronei Yousefi and Zad all went close in the second period before Place eventually added his second to seal the game. A great run and ball from substitute right-back Tom Booth played in Place who finished clinically.

The result was fair - in fact it should have been more - but you have to give credit to a very young Marjon side who continue to play attractive football.

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Mike Roberts; Ronei Yousefi, Sam Rosevear, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Will Ferguson, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Dan Place (HT), Tom Rowe (HT), Tom Booth (65), Tom Rothwell (65), Alex Richardson (78)

MOM: Mike Roberts - filled in at left back before moving into midfield and showing quality and experience.

 

[THE LYNX AFFECT]

22 hours ago, Shouter said:

Saturday 28 December 2019 - ECPL

Plymouth Marjon Reserves 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 3

Goals: Dan Place (47, 80), Tom Rowe (53)

Torpoint returned to winning ways after the disappointing performance and result at Roche three weeks ago. Skipper Chris Westall missed his first game of the season, while Byron Robbins, Adam Brayson, Glen Cleland, Sam White and new signing George Birbeck were all unavailable. Danny Rogers donned the captains armband with Jake White, Alex Richardson and Dan Place returning and new signing Tom Rothwell added.

The visitors started strongly with Sam Rosevear, Bahroz Zad and Adam Parry all spurning opportunities to open the scoring in the first period. However, the home side settled into their passing game and arguable finished the stronger side. Their build up play was impressive, but they lacked the cutting edge to carve out any real clear cut chances. Marjon's best chances came from set pieces. Torpoint looked sluggish and disjointed. Ball retention and quality of passing was poor. A slight tweak to the formation in the latter stages of the first half with Mike Roberts moving into midfield and Jay Hussey to left back to provide some balance. HT 0-0

Torpoint introduced two substitutes at the interval, with striker Dan Place and midfielder Tom Rowe coming on. From that point, Torpoint were much the better side and it was Place who opened the scoring within 2 minutes of the restart, holding the ball up superbly and muscling past two defenders before finishing from close range. The game was pretty much one way traffic from that point, with Marjon restricted to break aways and set pieces, with 'keeper Matt Westall making one impressive save with his feet from a Marjon free-kick on the edge of the area. Rowe added the second on 53 minutes, making a late run from midfield to power home a header from Place's cross. Parry, Ronei Yousefi and Zad all went close in the second period before Place eventually added his second to seal the game. A great run and ball from substitute right-back Tom Booth played in Place who finished clinically.

The result was fair - in fact it should have been more - but you have to give credit to a very young Marjon side who continue to play attractive football.

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Mike Roberts; Ronei Yousefi, Sam Rosevear, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Will Ferguson, Bahroz Zad.

Subs used: Dan Place (HT), Tom Rowe (HT), Tom Booth (65), Tom Rothwell (65), Alex Richardson (78)

MOM: Mike Roberts - filled in at left back before moving into midfield and showing quality and experience.

 

enjoyed refereeing this game no cautions and a credit to both teams

[Shouter]

Saturday 4 January 2020 - ECPL

Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2, Veryan 2

Torpoint Goals: Chris Westall (6, 69). Veryan Goals: Martin Gilbert (82), Aaron Moyses (90+4).

This was the proverbial game of two halves and, I would imagine, a very entertaining game for the neutral spectator. That said, we can't help but be disappointed following Veryan's late equaliser and the chances we missed earlier in the game.

Torpoint started very strongly and maintained their momentum for the entirety of the first half. Chris Westall opened the scoring as early as the 6th minutes, receiving a pass into feet from Jay Hussey, turning and finding the top right hand corner of the Veryan goal with the aid of a slight deflection. The home side kept up the pressure and should have gone further into the lead during the first 45 minutes. Adam Parry was put through on goal but his effort was straight at the visiting keeper who saved with ease, while set piece delivery and corners from Jay Hussey were a constant menice. Westall and debutant George Birbeck both went close with headed efforts, while the latter also shaved the crossbar from distance. Veryan's best and possibly only chance came late in the first half, but Matt Westall saved superbly from close range.

There was a significant momentum shift in the second period. A different Veryan came out for the second period and took the game to Torpoint with a change of shape putting two strikers up against the home side's back line. Torpoint defended solidly though and, despite the pressure, restricted the Veryan threat to largely set pieces. Torpoint did have their moments though and Chris Westall doubled the lead when he found the bottom corner from the edge of the box. Substitute Byron Robbins also missed the target from 10 yards after a great run by Westall, while fellow sub Tom Rothwell should also have finished another good move, but put his effort past the post. The visitors pressure did finally tell on 82 mins, when Martin Gilbert finished superbly from a tight angle leaving Torpoint to try and hold on for the win. However, 4 minutes into injury time and corner was headed away only to find Aaron Moyses on the edge of the box and his effort flew into the bottom corner through a melee of legs - on another day, it goes in the car park.

On balance of play, a draw appeared a fair result, although on chances created we can't help but feel bitterly disappointed we couldn't hold on for all three points. It definitely felt like 2 points dropped rather than 1 gained. I felt we ran out of steam a little in the closing stages and perhaps defended a little too deep, inviting the pressure.

Good luck to Veryan for the remainder of the season. We always enjoy good competitive games against these boys and they are always respectful at the end of the game, win, lose or draw.

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Tom Booth, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Glen Cleland; Sam Rosevear, George Birbeck, Jay Hussey; Adam Parry, Chris Westall, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Tom Rothwell (59), Ronei Yousefi (59), Sam White (65), Byron Robbins (78)

MOM: Sam Rosevear - worked hard for his side, never gave the ball away in the entire 94 mins and started the majority of his side's attacks.

[Shouter]

Saturday 11 January 2020 - ECPL

St Teath 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Chris Westall (32 pen, 34)

How Torpoint managed to come away from this victory with only 2 goals to their name is baffling me to this day. A combination of poor finishing, poor final ball, superb defending and goalkeeping, and pure bad luck, meant Torpoint took a routine 3 points to go second in the table, but came away feeling hugely disappointed that their goal difference did not receive a significant (and much needed) boost!

The first half was entirely one way traffic that saw the St Teath goal peppered with efforts from open play and set pieces but, after 30 minutes the scoreline remained 0-0 with numerous guilt edge chances having been missed. I counted at least 3 goal line scrambles which failed to see the ball cross the line, two clear headers after superb deliveries from Jay Hussey, one great save from a Ronei Yousefi effort and a chance hooked over the bar from about 6 inches (the names have not been revealed for fear of embarrassment). By the time captain Chris Westall opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 32 minutes, the visitors SHOULD have been at least 4-0 up. Westall doubled the lead 2 minutes later when another Hussey corner was played into the danger area and was eventually poked home after another session of penalty-box-pin-ball. St Teath were restricted to break away efforts and did threaten on occasions, only to find Tom Booth and Danny Rogers in stubborn mood. Moment of the second half though was just before half-time when the St Teath striker hit one for 25 yards that appeared to be heading for the cobweb, only for Matt Westall to dive full stretch and tip onto the post and away to safety. That's as exciting as it got!

The second half was equally one sided, albeit with the pitch cutting up badly and already very soft in areas, the quality of football on display left a lot to be desired. More chances went begging for the away side though. Will Ferguson missed the target from 10 yards when well placed, then failed to finish a superb cross from Callum Bays when it looked easier to score. There were a further two headed chances which failed to hit the target, while a further opportunity was well palmed away by the home goalkeeper. A Bays marauding run ended with his effort coming back off the post, with nobody on hand to finish, while substitute Bahroz Zad hit the cross bar with his drive from just inside the box. Adam Brayson's surging run from midfield ended with his effort missing the target and another Zad rocket whistled past the post when a more composed finish was probably required. The day was summed up in the 82nd minute when substitute Byron Robbins saw his penalty saved by the home 'keeper.

With no disrespect to St Teath intended, i don't think anyone would have had anything to complain about if Torpoint had come away with at least 8 goals in this game - and that's not even being generous. However, over the course of the season so far, scoring goals and finishing the chances that we have created has been a constant theme. If we really do want to be up there in and around the top four sides, we need to start finishing these chances!

 

Torpoint (4-2-1-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Tom Booth, Danny Rogers, Glen Cleland; Sam Rosevear, Jay Hussey; Ronei Yousefi; Adam Parry, Chris Westall, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Byron Robbins (58), Bahroz Zad (58), Sam White (61), Adam Brayson (61), Josh Payn (76).

MOM: Callum Bays - very solid all round display on an extremely tricky surface.

[Shouter]

Saturday 25 January 2020 - ECPL

St Blazey Reserves 0, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 1

Goal: Chris Westall (18 pen)

Torpoint collected another 3 points to keep in touch with the league pace-setters, but had to rely on an 18th minute penalty from captain Chris Westall to do so. The scoreline would have looked hugely different should the away side have taken the many many chances that fell their way. This was St Teath all over again.

The game overall was well contested, with St Blazey working hard to deny their visitors to time and space to play. But it was Torpoint that created all the chances. Will Ferguson went clean through within the first 5 minutes, but his effort was straight at the advancing keeper, Westall himself missed a 12th minute penalty, Sam Rosevear hit the bar with a header from a wicked Jay Hussey cross, while Ferguson and Westall spurned two further opportunities before the break. 

The second half was much the same with Torpoint playing all the attacking football, St Blazey defending resolutely and relying on long range efforts and set pieces, neither of which troubled Matt Westall in the Torpoint goal for the entire 90mins. I don't actually recall him making a save. At the other end, Ferguson and Tom Rowe had efforts denied by St Blazey bodies on the line, Sam Rosevear missed the target after meeting a Ferguson pull-back from 12 yards, substitute Adam Parry forced two good saves from the home side's keeper, a Jay Hussey free-kick did the same, while Byron Robbins shaved the bar with a 12-yard drive and Ronei Yousefi struck the post with a left footed effort from the edge of the box. 

My back of a fag packet maths gave us at least 10 goal-scoring opportunities, 6 of which were guilt edge, and another 6 to play a better ball in the final third. It was a tough watch, but credit to St Blazey who, while riding their luck, gave a good account of themselves particularly in the midfield area where they were impressive today.  

At the end of the day, whether you win 1-0 or 6-0... you still only get 3 points!

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Tom Booth, Jake White, Danny Rogers, Jay Hussey; Sam Rosevear, Adam Brayson, Tom Rowe; Luka Pkhazadze, Chris Westall, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Sam White (55), Byron Robbins (55), Ronei Yousefi (67), Bahroz Zad (70), Adam Parry (70).

MOM: Tom Rowe - all action display in midfield covering a lot of ground on a big pitch, winning headers, tackles and driving forward.

[Foul Throw 3]

Westall (pen) is looking reminiscent of Soldado (pen) for Spurs in 13/14 season.

[Shouter]

Saturday 29 February 2020 - ECPL

Looe Town 1, Torpoint Athletic Thirds 2

Goals: Ronei Yousefi (79), Bahroz Zad (89)

We were glad to finally get a game on after what felt like a very long spell out. Fair play to the Looe committee and volunteers for getting the game on, but the conditions were not conducive to an attractive game of football by any stretch of the imagination and both sides struggled to show any real quality. The pitch wasn’t in a good state at the end and Looe are home again next week so we hope it didn't cause too much damage.

This was the proverbial game of two halves and Torpoint elected to play up the slope and against the gale force wind after winning the toss. The visitors had a game plan from the off and defended the bottom goal resolutely for the majority of the first half. Conceding few set pieces is always key and superb kicking into the wind from Matt Westall allowed the outfielders to defend higher up the pitch. Looe did score the only goal of the half from a very quick break after Byron Robbins was caught in possession in Looe’s third. A ball down the right channel lead to a 3-on-3 situation which was well worked by Looe leaving their left winger to tap home. Despite the awful conditions and with the wind, that was pretty much Looe's only chance and Torpoint did create their own chances in the first half. Will Ferguson forced a smart save from the home keeper in the opening minutes, Robbins hit the crossbar and had a goal ruled out for offside - wrongly in my opinion, but who am I to doubt the honesty of the home official? 😉 HT 1-0

The second half was about putting the pressure on Looe’s defence and using the elements to keep knocking on the door. Countless corners were swung in by Robbins and Jay Hussey and the slightest of contact on any of them would - and probably should - have resulted in a goal. Tom Rowe in particular was unlucky not to come away with hat-trick of headers!! Two superb saves from the home keeper came from free kicks from the same two set piece takers. Chances in open play were limited, but Ferguson and Sam Rosevear were still thwarted by the home keeper when well placed. With the clock ticking away, the equaliser finally arrived on 79 mins when Ronei Yousefi's speculative 25-yard effort took a wicked deflection and looped over the keeper. It was unclear whether the effort was on target, but we awarded it to Ronei!! Torpoint kept banging on the door and pushed for the winner - but Looe's only chance came on the break but Matt Westall saved from 10-yards, then the follow up was blocked by the face of Steve Todd!

With the game looking like ending in a draw, Christ Westall's acrobatic effort looked to have won the game for the visitors however, the home linesman once again ruled it out for offside - again, wrongly in my opinion but who am I to question him?! 😉 Less said, the better! That said, with a minute to go, substitute Bahroz Zad danced through the Looe defence and slotted past the keeper from 12 yards to spark wild celebrations - ones of relief one would suggest! In injury time, there was time for Zad to fashion two further chances to extend the lead but neither were taken and the game ended with Torpoint taking the points. Cruel on Looe considering the timing, but on balance of play and chances, more than a fair result.

We had every condition to deal with in this game. Gale force winds, bright sunshine, hail, sleet and horizontal driving rain. The stereo-typical leveller! Has anyone ever scored in the top goal at Looe we ask?? A potential banana skin avoided.

 

Torpoint (4-3-3): Matt Westall; Callum Bays, Steve Todd, Danny Rogers, Jay Hussey; Sam Rosevear, Chris Westall, Tom Rowe; Ronei Yousefi, Byron Robbins, Will Ferguson.

Subs used: Bahroz Zad (60), Adam Parry (60), Adam Blair (70)

Sub not sued: Max Greenham

MOM: Jay Hussey - playing out of position provided quality and resilience when needed. Always a threat from set pieces.

[Shouter]

Sunday 7th April 2020

TAFC Thirds Presentation Awards 2019/20 - via WhatsApp

With the season brought to an abrupt end thanks the Cornovirus we thought we would do a WhatsApp Presentation Night for the lads. Along with some superb graphics, picture montages and action shots from Neill Richardson, the awards were dished out as follows...

Sporting Commitment Award...

1. Jay Hussey
2. Tom "Killer" Rowe
3. Danny Rogers

Managers' Player of the Season..

1. Danny Rogers
2. Matt Westall
3. Jake White

Players' Player of the Season...

1. Matt Westall
2. Jake White
3. Sam Rosevear

Season Summary from JR...

It's very difficult to judge how this season went, considering we still had 13 games to play before COVID-19 stopped us in our tracks. However, I think that after a difficult opening 4/5 games we found our feet in this league and, for the most part, competed in every game. Let's not forget, we didn't add that much to the side that finished Third in the Duchy Premier League in 2018/19.

It took a little time, but we eventually became resilient and difficult to beat first and foremost  - that meant we were always in the game. Sure, we had a blip against Mount Gould (0-4) and at Foxhole with half a team (2-5), while there was the awful display at home to St Cleer (3-6). Other than that, we didn't concede too many which is always going to give you a chance, particularly if you are going to find it difficult to score goals at the other end of the pitch, which we did without question. Chris Westall finished the season with 11 goals while playing most of the season at right back. The next best was young Daniel Place who notched 6 in 10 games before going back to the Reserves. This is something we must improve on next season.

We were in Third place when the season ended - with difficult games to play against Mount Gould and St Dominick who were both scoring goals for fun. I fancied us in the remaining fixtures though and with all the tops sides having to play each other twice, I really felt we could have pinched runners up - or certainly a top 3 finish. When looking at where we finished, I can't help but look back at the injury-time equalisers we conceded at home to both Veryan and St Minver, while the awful result at Roche meant we literally gave 7 points away. Of course, there's always a flip side, when you consider our last minute winner at home to St Stephen (what a game that was) and the opening day win at St Dominick where it's safe to say, we were fortunate.

I've enjoyed being back in football after 5 years away. We really do have a fantastic group of lads that are all a pleasure to be around. We have fantastic support from the club too and we really do operate as "a club" and not 4 individual sides. The ground staff, bar staff and even the supporters are amazing, while the committee all work tirelessly - and often thanklessly - to ensure the club keeps moving in the right direction. Callum Bays makes my life so much easier though with his work off the pitch, while Neill Richardson is great company and his help, support and input this season has been invaluable.

Finally, a special thanks to our sponsors who have contributed generously this season - Jem Scaffolding, AP Electrical Contractors, C&P Plastering and Southern Finishes. 

2019/20 - Over and out!!

 

[ECPL]

Great news.  Keep safe