Torpoint Athletic 3rds 20/21

[Foul Throw 3]

A thread I will try to add to throughout the season. Kept 90% of the squad from the null & void 19/20 season, with 3 or 4 moving on. New additions with 4x u18s, 2 stepping up from the club's 4th team & still with the u18s & 2 beginning men's football after excelling with an excellent Plympton u18s side.

Millbridge XI 2 - 5 Torpoint

Goals from Westall x3, Robbins, Ferguson.

I missed the game as I was away for the weekend. But good to start our first friendly with a win. A hot baking afternoon on the 3G at DHS for Boys in Plymouth got off to a slow start, and was 0-0 at HT. Some pre-determined decisions to change some personnel and our formation paid off dividends and we were a much bigger threat, scoring 5 goals in 45mins. Squad of 16 with a few unavailable too, some vital minutes for everyone. And debuts for the 2x u18s from Plympton u18s, Matty Cotter & Ryan Easterbrook.

[Foul Throw 3]

Lanreath 4 - 3 Torpoint

Goals from WestallC x2 and Sam White

Lineup: WestallM, Booth, WhiteJ, Rogers, Hussey, Rosevear (45), Brayson (45), WhiteS, Blair (45), Robbins (45), WestallC. 

Subs: Rowe, Cotter, Easterbrook, Payn. All on at HT.

Started with the same formation that was so productive vs Millbridge in the 2nd half. A few more personnel changes to share minutes throughout pre-season, but we began the game well with the midfield battle going Torpoint's way, with Brayson and Sam White winning their tackles and Sam Rosevear showing his usual composure on the ball to get the ball forward to Westall, Robbins and young Adam Blair.

The first came from possession won in Torpoint's 1/3, with quick passes into Blair who smartly found Robbins, who superbly played through to WestallC who beat a man to his right and shot across goal into the bottom corner. The second was again created by Robbins, chipping through to WestallC who superbly controlled the ball and smashed it past the helpless keeper from inside the box. The 3rd goal was a screamer from Marine White from the outside of the box, maybe 25yds. A corner was cleared and from the left hand side of the box, Whitey smashed the ball into the far corner, unstoppable!

Lanreath's goal came from a corner with the finisher reacting quickest to the ball and finishing low into the goal.

The 2nd half was all Lanreath from an attacking POV. Torpoint continued to win their tackles but lacked the quality and composure on the ball. A change of shape and personnel didn't help and one for the management to look at. Continually losing possession brought on a lot of pressure. Baker in Lanreath's midfield began to take over the game, and the HT introduction of McGhee on the left was a huge threat.The latter finished the game with 2 good goals and a penalty miss. Lanreath scored another after a cross from former Torpoint man Adam Parry was well volleyed into Torpoint's goal from 18yds.  Lanreath's winner came in the last minute with Parry finishing low after a cross from off the pitch came in from the right. Linesman and defence baffled but the official overruled and allowed. Cruel but over the 2nd half it was coming and lessons to be learnt about game management. Onto the next one vs Wendron Reserves.

[Foul Throw 3]

Wendron Res 0 - 5 Torpoint

Goals from WestallC x2, Ferguson, Robbins & Hussey (pen).

Lineup: WestallM, Bays, WhiteJ, WhiteS, Hussey (85), Rosevear (45), Blair (55), Rowe, Robbins (35), Ferguson (60), WestallC

Subs: Davis (55), Brayson (45), Payn (35), West (30)

An almost faultless performance after a disappointing collapse vs Lanreath 4 days earlier. With 4 players from that game unavailable, Bays overcame an injury sustained in the warm up the previous game, Ferguson & West returned, and 2nd team youngster Theo Davis boosting the squad with his fitness and work rate. 

A perfect playing surface at Wendron, Torpoint started strongly. Direct passing through to the pace and trickery of Ferguson resulting in him scoring the first, hitting the ball between a defender's legs into the bottom left. Wendron had possession but were continually up against an organised defense and midfield. Torpoint's 2nd came after brilliant play down the left from Ferguson who squared the ball to Robbins who scuffed his left footed effort into the far corner. Again, Wendron dominated the majority of the possession for the half, but creating very little. A number of corners were cleared well, and only an error by the rubbish Bays at right back allowed Wendron's left winger to hit a shot straight at keeper WestallM. A wasted opportunity with time and space to pick a corner from inside the box. Late into the half, Robbins went off with a niggle for 16yr old Davis coming into the No.10 position. WestallC rounded off the half with another pre-season goal for the big man.

HT and Torpoint addressed the lack of possession, but also why it was working and how we were dealing with it. HT sub Brayson on for poorly calf Rosevear.

Just a rollocking but no change in shape or tactics for Wendron at HT. But Torpoint scored again early in the half, with a Marine White long throw taken quickly into the path of WestallC, who held the ball up superbly, turning 2 defenders selfishly when there was an easy pass on, to be brought down in the box. Hussey despatched from the spot confidently. Bays whinging from the halfway line about a rushed throw and selfish play could only laugh at his stupidity.

A few subs for Torpoint with 17yr old Payn on in a forward position, and Ben West on in midfield, then later filling in at left back. Wendron made a few changes themselves, with a mixture of youth and experience entering, and a tricky no.12 replacing the big target man up front. Something different to deal with. But again, Torpoint dealt with any threat, which was reducing as the game wore on. Torpoint continued to push on, with the subs wanting to impress. Payn broke free down the left and a lovely chipped cross into WestallC was superbly headed into the net for the 5th.

A good game for Torpoint, and Wendron were fine hosts! The bottle of tequila didn't go down nicely, but was much appreciated and a fantastic gesture.

[Foul Throw 3]

Torpoint 6 - 0 Dobwalls Res

Goals from Hussey (pen), Robbins, Easterbrook x2, Trethewey & WestallC.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays (55), WhiteJ, WhiteS, Hussey, Brayson (40), Payn (60), Rowe (50), Easterbrook, Robbins, Ferguson (30)

Subs: WestallC (60), Rosevear (50), Blair (30) , Trethewey (40), Booth (35).

Opposition not as strong as last week vs Wendron Res but an efficient performance nonetheless. Torpoint were relatively relaxed from the off, with Bays chipping into the path of a forward run from Ferguson into the box who was brought down. Hussey despatched confidently for his 2nd pen in 2 games. Not much pressure on Point's back 4 and there was huge amounts of space in front of the full backs to bring the ball out. Possession would've been more telling but a few lacklustre passes in the midfield and some poor closing down resulting in missed tackles or sloppy free kicks. A few close to the 18yd box but WestallM in goal not troubled from threatening positions.  When Torpoint’s play went forward it was only going to result in goals today. Easterbrook found himself in plenty of room in the middle of the pitch following a turnover in possession, and an excellent weighted path to the #back Robbins, who waited for the defender to close inside the box at pace, before cutting back inside onto his left and tucking under the goalkeeper for 2-0. 2 subs in the first half with Rosevear & WestallC on, the latter immediately finding himself on the end of crosses and forward passes in good areas. 2-0 HT.

The 2nd half introduction of Trethewey, along with the other 2 subs added quality through the Torpoint spine and they kept the pressure on. An inswinging corner from Hussey found an unmarked Easterbrook inside the 6yd box for his 1st goal for the club and possibly in men's football. He was on the scoresheet again as he was part of a pressing front 3, intercepting a Dobwalls pass along their own box, to finish calmly under the goalkeeper for his 2nd. Trethewey was the next scorer as a well worked move down the right was squared across the box for the sidefoot of the returning to the club Trethewey. WestallC added to his pre season tally when he was first to reach to a goalkeeper fumble.

Overall, happy with the game and more vital minutes for a strong squad, with a few regulars missing also. Dobwalls have a good blend of youth and pace up front and some experience in the rear and I imagine they won’t do too badly. Good luck to them for their season. Onto Plymouth Argyle Development squad next week on the 3G at Manadon, Plymouth.

 

[Foul Throw 3]

Plymouth Argyle Development 3 - 3 Torpoint Athletic 

Goals from Robbins x2, Ferguson.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays (45), WhiteJ (45), WhiteS, Hussey, Blair (65), Trethewey (80), Rosevear (55), Easterbrook (70), Robbins, Ferguson

Subs: Booth (45), Rogers (45), Brayson (35), West (30), Quintrell (25), Bartolini (20).

By far the toughest test of our pre-season in the final friendly before the season begins next Saturday. Argyle were young, fit, and very well coached. Their organisation and shape was superior through the majority of the game. Having watched them the week before vs our 2nd team, we knew they'd want to play out from the back, where they moved the ball around quickly. Torpoint's biggest threat was probably how quickly we'd wear out. But our decision making of when to press in numbers or wait for errors, vs when to let their keeper and centre halves have it and sit back in our shape was constantly under question. Both sides without the ball held their shape well, thus resulting in a busy middle of the park. That often resulted in long balls in behind for both sides, where Argyle's were far too often overhit through to keeper Westall, or swept up well by the Whites, but Torpoint had some success with Ferguson and Robbins moving well off the ball.

One break in play down Torpoint's right resulted in a free kick in a dangerous area. Hussey delivered a sweet inswinger to the back post, where Robbins volleyed home. Keeper got a hand but would've had to be strong to do better.

Argyle equalised minutes later through a lapse in concentration inside 20yds, where some fortune resulted in the ball falling to the striker who finished well inside the box.

Torpoint went into the HT break 2-1 up, when Ferguson broke through centrally and raced through, finishing well low to the bottom right.

 

The 2nd half was mixed up with plenty of subs for both sides, which as per most pre-season friendlies, disrupted the rhythm. Argyle equalised from a towering header in the centre of the goal from an inswinging corner. Argyle adopted a deliberate corner routine from the off where eventually the scorer of the equaliser would get his jump and header right. A huge leap and an even better header.

Torpoint's 3rd was the goal of the match. Set piece specialist Robbins struck a wonderful freekick from 30yds+ which flew into the top corner. If the boy could move he'd be some player.

Torpoint's changes and tiring legs took it's toll and the latter part of the game was all Argyle in terms of chances. Two efforts crashing against the crossbar and a much deserved equaliser, again another good finish of the match kept low into the corner.

Argyle a great side and for a side full of teenagers, had plenty of know how and technical ability. Before the game, on a 3G pitch that big, I'd have took a score draw with no injuries sustained and some vital minutes for all 17 players involved today. Looking forward to our competitive fixtures starting next Saturday, a lengthy away trip to St Minver and a couple of Tributes after!

[Foul Throw 3]

St Minver 0 - 2 Torpoint Athletic 

Goals from Brayson & WestallC.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays, WhiteJ , WhiteS, Hussey (75), Brayson (70), Trethewey (off at 60, back on 70), Rowe (85), Robbins (50), Ferguson (sin bin 79), WestallC.

Subs: Easterbrook (40), Cotter (30), West (15), Blair (5). Unused, Payn.

An excellent victory to start our league campaign, against a strong St Minver outfit. There's never many goals when we meet, as last seasons 1-1 draws prove, so we knew before the game it would be a tight affair, with the game being decided by who could win the battles and work the hardest.

Ultimately, we won our battles, with the central midfielders superb throughout the game for Torpoint and worked tirelessly throughout. I don't think there was a lot of quality on show but chances were created by using the willing runner Ferguson who weaved in and out of Minver defenders causing them troubles. And the big man Westall giving us a target to aim for to tussle and scrap with the big Minver centre half. The first goal came early in the game as Ferguson broke through down the right and found himself on the byline inside the box, squaring to Brayson, who took an age to get the ball out of his feet, but managed to squeeze his shot off before the pressure was too much. Why he was so far up the pitch I do not know, but he's beaten his goal scoring tally of 19/20 on match day one! 

The game didn't change after the goal though, with both teams trying to dominate. Minver's new signing Ben Hurst in goal was reaching Torpoint's 1/3 every time so even a goal kick was a threat. But Rowe and the 2 Whites were defensively superb in their aerial battles to relieve any pressure. Hurst was happy to play out from the back to a composed and well drilled Minver side, but we managed to hold our formation well as we've practised throughout our pre season friendlies, being difficult to break down. More chances fell to Torpoint in the first half, with Ferguson causing a lot of problems with his dribbling, and Robbins dragging a few shots wide when well placed. Right before the HT break, set piece dangerman Hussey stood over a free kick. Up and over the wall with a lovely curling effort. I think my premature celebration jinxed it, as it smashed the bar! 

HT for Torpoint was mainly to reiterate the work rate required to get anything out of the game. Repeat the 1st half and we win, easier said than done. But let Minver get chances or start to lose our battles and the momentum would shift. I was sure Minver were getting a rollocking! All the lads were asked was to run themselves into the ground until they were empty, as we had a very youthful bench of 17-20yr olds itching to get on and get in the fight.

Second half was similar, but Minver were better going forwards this half, with Callum Wilson off the bench, and improved wing play by Minver's wide men. Far less chances for Torpoint in the 2nd half, as Minver dominated possession in the middle of the pitch, but the few shots had were easy saves for WestallM, or WhiteS swept up at centre half superbly. The bootneck won every one of his duels.

Robbins off early in the half for young Matty Cotter, who must've had a good warm up, cos he was out of the trenches quickly and involved in the game. For a young midfielder, his strength and composure was what we needed at the time. Easterbrook was also on with willing runs and occasional trickery when we pushed forwards. A sin bin for each side left it 10 v 10 in the latter part of the game, with Ferguson off for dissent, slamming the ball into the ground for not being awarded a throw in, tantrum for the Casanova! Torpoint changed slightly to a 4-4-1, when against the run of play WestallC found himself in possession up against the defence on his own, miles from goal. No problem, chips the keeper from maybe 40yards and drops into the net for 2-0 and a nice cushion with less than 10 to play. A captain's goal and a captain's performance.

The 2nd goal killed the game off and a huge 3pts for us! Buzzing! Onto St Dom on Weds, if the daylight allows.

[Foul Throw 3]

St Dominic 1 - 0 Torpoint Athletic 

Goals for St Dom - Ryall.

Lineup: WestallM, Booth, WhiteJ , WhiteS, Hussey, Brayson (40), Trethewey, Rowe (55), Robbins (50), Ferguson (70), WestallC.

Subs: Cotter (40), Easterbrook (30), Payn (25), Blair (10). Unused, Rogers.

A difficult match on paper & it turned out to be that way in reality. The game was played with 40min halves to preempt the loss of daylight.

St Dom came out the blocks sharper and scored within 5mins as Ryall had the typical No.9s goal. Defenders would argue he was lucky it fell to him, strikers would argue he was well placed, and he finished smartly for his 3rd in the opening 2 games for St Dom. After that neither side grasped control, with the tight pitch not allowing any time or space for composure or quality. Both sides defended well when necessary and all the threat was from set pieces, with both sides lucky to not concede from multiple inswingers. One corner for Torpoint resulted in an "alleged" headbutt on Brayson from the St Dom centre half, with spectators on all sides of the pitch in full view, except the man who had to make the decision. A talking to was enough as he "didn't see it". Poor call IMO.

Ferguson did steal an interception in the box late in the half, with Blatchford stranded and out of position. In a position to score, Ferguson opted to square it to the calls of Westall, who was closed down quicker than anticipated and the defender did enough to ruin the chance. 1-0 HT.

A change at HT for Torpoint with Cotter on for Brayson in midfield. Clear cut chances were few and far between, with efforts well saved by Blatchy, including two efforts from Cotter. One a good effort from 25yds just wide of the post and the other a skilful dribble through the centre of the pitch, with his right footed effort saved. Blair found himself through on goal from a long ball, only to find the flag up for offside. The St Dom centre half, lucky to still be on the pitch, marshalled well and won most of his duels & was strong in keeping St Dom's clean sheet. With time running out, Torpoint resulted in long balls which he either dealt with, or went through to Blatchford. Rogers & Ryall up top were smart in keeping the ball or wasting time, with the latter a menace throughout. 1-0 FT.

A disappointing result to drop points where we felt we deserved at least a draw. But we lacked our usual quality from start to finish to cut St Dom open. One to reflect on. A weekend off now, with our next fixture the lengthy trip to new look Veryan on the 19th.

[Secret Referee]

On 10/09/2020 at 11:48, Foul Throw 3 said:

A talking to was enough as he "didn't see it". Poor call IMO. 

Poor positioning? Maybe.

Poor observation skills? Maybe.

Poor decision if he “didn’t see it”? Absolutely not. 
 

Would you be happy if the match official dismissed one of your players after an incident that he says he didn’t see?

Referees are human, they will miss things occasionally. 

[Foul Throw 3]

Veryan 0 - 4 Torpoint Athletic 

Goals from Easterbrook x3, WestallC.

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell, WhiteJ , WhiteS (85), Hussey (60), Cotter (70), Trethewey, Rowe (55), Easterbrook, Robbins (65), WestallC.

Subs: Payn (35), Brayson (30), Ferguson (25) Blair (20), Rogers(5).

 

Another tough away trip for Torpoint yesterday, travelling to a consistently good side in Veryan. With Veryan in 6th when 19/20 was null and void, we knew it wouldn't be an easy feat. But that's now 2nd, 5th and 6th played from 19/20, only 1 goal conceded, 6 scored, and 6pts from 9 away from home. I probably would have taken that prior to the fixtures despite setting up each game for a win.

I wasn't there myself yesterday due to work commitments, but the lads clearly stuck to their previous commitment and work rate from the previous two games. Easterbrook & WestallC produced the goods early on with two goals in the first 15mins, the latter a good header from the captain. The remainder of the half was dominant, but Veryan began to edge their way back in to the game.

2nd half began the same with Veryan increasing their foothold. But early changes with Payn and Brayson on provided a little more Torpoint impetus. Ferguson on in the 65th for Robbins would've provided a different style to the attack against the Veryan back line and asked different questions. Late goals in the 75th and 85th (all timings approx) for 18yr old Easterbrook sealed the win and a brilliant hat trick for the youngster.

Another win and clean sheet against strong opposition for Torpoint, and a relieved man reading updates from afar. Onto St Cleer next week.

[Foul Throw 3]

St Cleer 1 - 3 Torpoint Athletic 

Goals from Easterbrook x2, Ferguson.

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell, WhiteJ , WhiteS, Bays, Cotter, Brayson (87), Rowe (72), Easterbrook, Robbins (60), WestallC.

Subs: Payn (18), Ferguson (30) Blair (3). Subs unused Cleland, Rogers.

A really lacklustre performance from Torpoint really, particularly first half when shooting down the slope. Easterbrook opened the scoring just after half hour after a lovely reverse flick by Robbins put him through on goal to the left. Ryan struck the ball cleanly and it whistled inside the near post past the helpless Jackson. 1-0 HT, but mostly a negative teamtalk on the whole. The standards we've set ourselves throughout pre season and our opening 3 league games weren't met and we all knew it. The previously shown work rate and quality was missing, but it's a silver lining that we've raised our own standards and can hold ourselves accountable.

Second half was much better in terms of our defensive shape defending the slope, with Rowe typically winning all his midfield battles. Ferguson coming on was almost an instant benefit, with his willing running and trickery. Easterbrook found himself through on goal again, this time to the right. Another superb finish inside the corner, bouncing in off the post to cement a 2-0 lead. 

St Cleer pulled one back, with Peel putting WhiteS under constant pressure with his strength. WhiteS decided WestallM hadn't been tested enough in Torpoint's goal, so hit a fierce volleyed backpass at him to deal with. I don't think Messi could've controlled that on his own goal line, and it ended up in the top corner for a WestallM OG, but Marine White solely to blame for being too strong!

Momentary panic, but Ferguson was providing a huge asset with back to front passes find him in good positions. He scored his 2nd and our 3rd are breaking through and leaving defenders for dead, only for the home linesman to disallow for handball? Fair enough. Ferguson also hit the base of the right hand post after breaking into the box from the left, before eventually getting a deserved goal late in the game. Again leaving defenders clutching and lifting the ball over Jackson and into the net for some late in the game security.

A deserved 3-1 win, with St Cleer rarely threatening the goal except for a Peel powerful effort past the post 2nd half. One of those where you wish it could've been smoother, better quality, but overall I will never decline 3pts. Onto next week with the biggest test so far, away vs early league leaders Mount Gould.

 

 

 

 

[Foul Throw 3]

Mount Gould 2 - 1 Torpoint Athletic 

Goal from Easterbrook.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays (85), WhiteJ , WhiteS, Hussey, Brayson (62), Rowe (83), Trethewey, Easterbrook, Ferguson (off 63, on 80), WestallC.

Subs: Bartolini (28), Davis (30), Payn (5). Subs unused Quintrell, Rogers.

A real battle yesterday. It's no secret MG have a reputation, whether fair or not, but we turned up with the right attitude to stay in the game and give a good account of ourselves. I think we did that. Teams that roll over and let MG tickle their bellies like puppies will obviously lose heavily and I suspect that's what happens some weeks. But Marjons and now Torpoint have gone close so I don't think MG will win comfortably every week. A bit of belief and players ready to go toe to toe will get something at some point.

Torpoint opened the scoring when two forwards found themselves through on goal, with one squaring to the other for an empty net tap in. But the flag went up quickly to disallow for offside. An error from the forwards to miss such an opportunity.

MG were the next to have one ruled out, as a dangerous inswinging corner was headed into the net, but the referee correctly ruled it out due to a foul on keeper Westall by Grinrod. But MG's 2nd corner resulted in a goal that stood. Another good delivery was well met by Mcilvaney with a firm header. Westall again was fouled IMO this time by a different "marker" but it stood.

Torpoint had a set piece goal disallowed too after that for a ruled out equaliser. The corner from the left was deemed to go out of play before swinging back in and headed in. Fair enough.

Elsewhere in the first half, Brook found himself in the book after a silly and unnecessary foul on Easterbrook, who was virtually off the pitch. Cue spectators and management in uproar, with Wright finding himself in a 10min sin bin for his own reaction to Brook's booking. Torpoint tried to up their tempo with a numerical advantage, to no avail. MG were excellent in wasting time and running the clock down, showing their experience. HT 1-0.

2nd half had less quality, with both teams tiring on a now heavier pitch. Less chances but MG on the front foot for the most part. The 2 Whites at centre half were excellent throughout. MG's 2nd was a good free kick by Wright about 25yards out, low into the right corner, with Westall expecting it to go over/under the wall to the other side. The free kick was a shame as Jake White slipped and gave away a foul, his only mistake all game and harsh on him.

Many changes for both sides changed the flow a little, with Davis, Easterbrook and Ferguson providing more of an outball with Torpoint chasing. Torpoint midfield began to win a few more %s as MG's midfield tired, except for Grinrod who was tireless! But eventually time ran out and MG again ate up the time with expertise.

A sucker of a defeat for Torpoint with few chances for both teams. One of those where MG deserved the win, but a draw could've been snatched on another day. It's only October, but if this stinking virus buggers off and doesn't stop football again, the league title will be MG's. Having played MG, St Dom & St Minver already, MG are far better than what the others can offer in quality and aggression to win football matches. 

Next up for Torpoint is our first home game of the season on Wednesday, at home to Marjons Res who have started very well in their league campaign. Hopefully my old legs can recover in time.

[Foul Throw 3]

Torpoint Athletic 6 - 0 Marjons

Goal from Ferguson x2, WestallC x2, Easterbrook & Trethewey..

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell, WhiteJ , WhiteS (80), Hussey (75), Brayson (58), Rowe (55), Trethewey, Easterbrook (63), Ferguson, WestallC.

Subs: Bartolini (32), Cotter (35), Payn (27), Bays (15), Rogers (10).

First home game of the season for Torpoint and our first since the 4th of January. Felt like a long long time and the lads were buzzing. The warm up was jovial with excitement but once the whistle blew it was a good performance. The first corner of the game on 5mins resulted in Easterbrook poking home after a good delivery from Hussey. Not long after that Rowe bundled home a rebound after WestallC's shot was saved, ricocheted back towards for the goal for Rowe to fire home, but even from the dugout he was clearly offside and it was rightly ruled out. Rowe had his 2nd of the game chalked off again later in the half as he finished from a corner.

Torpoint's 2nd was around 22mins as Trethewey headed home well at the near post from another Hussey corner. For the remainder of the half, Marjons had some good possession without threat, with Torpoint looking dangerous on the break. 2-0 at HT felt a little disappointing given the opportunities to punish during transitions, but the final ball into the channels for Ferguson and Easterbrook lacked the quality required to really hurt.

A far improved 2nd half for Torpoint, with Ferguson running in behind from deep and having time for a brew, before smashing low under the keeper around the hour mark, a lovely ball forward from WhiteS. The high line from Marjons was finally undone by the forward line's pace. A few changes for Torpoint with Cotter on having missed the fixture vs MG and Bartolini on, both in midfield, as well as Payn on in a forward position for Easterbrook.

Around 80mins, Payn found himself in the final 1/3 on the right and a low cross found the greedy Ferguson, whose shot was half saved but it had enough power to loop into the net for his 3rd of the season. Around 80mins I had no view of what the cause was, but a penalty was given for WestallC to rifle home high into the net for 5-0. WestallC sealed the scoring with the best finish of the game, with a low drive into the bottom left from 25yds. 

Delighted with the 3pts after a long wait to be back at The Mill. Another clean sheet with our 3rd in 6 games, and plenty of goals to show for our efforts too. Onto another home game on Saturday where we welcome old rivals Foxhole Stars.

 

[Maybenextyear]

Bit of a mixed view from the Marjon camp. We thought that it was the best we had played against Torpoint over the 4 meetings over the last 2 seasons and even when 2 down thought that the game was still winnable. We failed to deal with the set pieces all night which was the undoing with the corner delivery really exceptional. Fair play to Torpoint, they took their chances and in truth, we did struggle to break down the back line with some of the forwards missing. The last 15 minutes told with the game effectively up and giving game time to the squad which enabled Torpoint to get 3 late goals. Overall, an improved start to the season for Marjon who still have only 2 players older than 19 in the match day squad. The lads are developing well - a good test today against Veryan to test their character after this defeat. 

[Foul Throw 3]

Torpoint Athletic 1 - 0 Foxhole

Goal from Jake White.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays (5), WhiteJ , Rogers, Hussey, Brayson (80), Rowe (60), Cotter, Easterbrook (70), Ferguson (75), WestallC.

Subs: Quintrell (85), Bartolini (32),  Blair (20), Payn (15), WhiteS (10).

Overall, a lacklustre performance but a 4th clean sheet in 7 league games and a fortuitous goal from a halfway line free kick gives us another 3pts.

The first half lacked much quality from both, with Foxhole's forward being a handful but getting little support, and Torpoint's forwards creating little. An early substitution for Torpoint, as the self proclaimed "fittest in the team" pulled a hamstring and had to go off, pathetic!

Foxhole were the stronger physically of the two sides with Wilkins and Co defending well and Kerrigan in midfield winning a lot of duels and 2nd balls. The closest Torpoint came to a goal was a superbly struck free kick by set piece wizard Hussey, who from 30yds whipped the ball up and over the wall, only to strike the post. 2nd time this season he's struck the woodwork from a deadball and again a premature celebration by myself probably jinxing him. I won't watch his free kicks next week and hope one flies in. Ferguson was causing the Foxhole left back some trouble with his mazy dribbles but Wilkins was always covering well or Goals' crosses were met by a Foxhole defender or goalkeeper. Brayson and Rowe had chances to hit the target both on their left foots, with Brayson opting to turn onto his right and run out of time, and Rowe hitting narrowly wide after a neat turn. The deadlock was broken when WhiteJ hit a free kick into the box from the halfway line, missing everyone and bouncing over the goalkeeper into the corner. The quickest defender in the league doesn't score many, so we told his missus it was an overhead kick from 55yds! Good to see her celebrate at the club on his behalf after the game with two bottles of white wine!

The 2nd half was much improved from Torpoint, with Cotter in midfield composed throughout and some great passing off both feet creating more attacking opportunities. Ferguson again was causing issues down the right hand side and WestallC continuously driving at the Foxhole defence. Youngsters Blair and Payn came on and looked confident and began to link up with WestallC up front. Blair in particular showed great touches and had a low drive saved by the visiting keeper. It's promising to see the youngsters we have in the team this season improve so quickly with experience.

Not as clinical as Wednesday, but 3pts and we're 2nd in the league having played some of the top sides from the 19/20 season already. Next two games are away at St Stephen and Looe, very tough places to go so a different test for us. Up The Point!

[Foul Throw 3]

St Stephen 0 - 2 Torpoint

Goals from Jay Hussey.

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell, Rogers, WhiteS, Hussey (85), Cotter, Trethewey, Bartolini (62) , Blair (75) Ferguson (85), WestallC.

Subs: Brayson (28) Payn (15), Cleland (5)

Top scorer Easterbrook with the 2nd team today and both star defender Jake White and Killer Rowe all unavailable today, a few changes were made. Over the moon with the result and proof the squad has the depth and mindset to go to a tough place and pick up another 3pts.

St Stephen started the stronger, and almost scored within a minute. If it wasn't for the long time retired Rogers excellent positioning it was a certain goal. Rogers inadvertently hit Torpoint's post, but if he hadn't, a tap in was certain. St Stephen had plenty of set pieces in the first half, with corners not resulting in any attempts on goal, and the dangerous Cowboy Rowe having a few free kick attempts at goal.

Torpoint grew into the game, with Cotter playing well and Ferguson being a menace in the final 1/3 throughout the half. Most of Torpoint's attacks in the first half ended in a Ferguson effort, resulting in saves or well blocked efforts as St Stephen defended well. One attack resulted in Trethewey brought down cynically in the Stephen half, resulting in no booking. My temperature rose for the first time in the day and had to take the woolly hat off. 0-0 HT. 

A few comments at HT about adding quality, exploiting weaknesses, but most importantly, concede less set pieces. The midfield trio of Cotter, Trethewey & Bartolini improved their composure and Hussey and Quintrell at FB were playing in the right areas. A slice of luck for the opener though, with set piece danger man Hussey hitting his first good corner of the game. The St Stephen keeper struggled with the delivery and it ended up in the net for a Hussey goal. 

The next big chance fell to Ferguson around the 75th min. He was played in down the right hand side near the corner flag, and either genius or calamity resulted in him being goalside and flying into the box and around a 2nd defender. A fierce left footed shot was goalbound and as per normal I was wheeling away too soon. The keeper's reaction deserved high praise and he tipped the shot high and away from the goal. I wondered if that was a wake up call, I'm not a fan of 1-0 leads late in the game. With willing runner Payn on for Blair, and gobby Brayson for the energetic Bartolini, we had extra energy than Stephen's changes. A Hussey "injury" brought Cleland on for his first minutes of the season, due to his chocolate teapot knee. Ferguson was dead on his feet having done a day's running in 85mins, so left back Hussey went on up front, to waste some time and hold the ball up. But reminiscent of Kaka and Inzaghi vs Liverpool for AC Milan in the 2007 CL Final, WestallC slipped Inzaghi (sorry, Hussey) through on goal. My first guess was he was too tired to shoot, but it was composure, a calm delay and wait for the keeper, around him with ease and a simple finish to seal the game with minutes left. 

If St Stephen had scored in that 1st minute, it could've been different. If Snogger 2.0 had played it certainly would've been a tougher test. But our 5th clean sheet in 8, having played MG, St Dom, St Minver among others, was testament to the resilience of the whole squad. Plenty of work rate and smiles about the side at the moment and I love to see it. Up The Point! 

[Foul Throw 3]

Looe 0 - 5 Torpoint

Goals from WestallC x3 (1 pen), Hussey pen & Brayson.

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell, WhiteJ, WhiteS, Hussey (65), Cotter (65), Trethewey (45), Bartolini (70) , Blair (40), Easterbrook (65), WestallC.

Subs: Brayson (25) Payn (45), Cleland (25), Rowe (75)

One does not simply walk into Mordor, and keep a clean sheet in the bottom goal - Boromir of Torpoint, October 2020.

Had sleepless hours last week laying in bed going over the gameplan for yesterday. The forecast wasn't pretty and I knew the game would be likewise. The warm up was cold, but there is a feel about the team at the moment and everyone was up for it, while Looe hid from the elements under cover of their new clubhouse. I sensed they didn't fancy it.

Skipper WestallC won the toss and we opted to defend the slope as we always do. Instructions were simple, waste time, defend with our lives, stay compact, and minimise shots, freekicks and corners to not allow pressure on WestallM. Easier said than done but the lads did it to perfection. No corners conceded all game and only 2-3 free kicks in our half which weren't capitalised on. We created more than I predicted in the first half, and WestallC broke the deadlock in the middle of the half from a corner. The ball was cleared to find WhiteS who put the ball back in for WestallC to finish. 

Easterbrook and WestallC were causing problems on the counter and arguably we could've had more meaningful efforts, but we would've bitten your hand off if offered a 1-0 lead at HT.

A change of shape at HT and Payn on for Trethewey. Instructions were the complete opposite. Show some quality, play with tempo and be relentless. By 50mins it was 3-0. The 2nd was a superb throughball by Rowe who found Payn. One on one he opened his body up and sat the keeper down, placing the ball low, only to hit the post. But fortune rebounded into the path of WestallC following up who tapped in for his brace. A minute or two later we won a penalty with some trickery inside the box. Usual taker Hussey offered it to Skip for his hat trick. 

Hussey got his own rewards as we won a 2nd penalty and he dispatched comfortably around the hour mark. His 3rd in two games from left back, I wasn't having that, so I dragged him off for some valuable minutes for Smeagol Cleland. His only instructions were to ensure we kept the cleano and pass the ball to left winger Adam Blair. He ignored the latter so I should've dragged him off too. 

Lots of valuable minutes for the whole squad with the scoreline out of reach, unless you're Spurs. Substitute Brayson rounded off the win with a superb strike later in the game. I think it's the hardest he's ever struck a ball and maybe the gravity of the slope aided him as the ball flew into the top corner from 20+yards.

7 wins in 9 games and our 6th clean sheet, my favourite! Rounded the day off with far too many Coors back at The Mill and it's becoming a habit, a good one! Can't wait for next week away at Roche.

[Foul Throw 3]

Torpoint 2 - 0 St Cleer

Goals from WestallC & Payn.

Lineup: WestallM, Quintrell (82), Rogers (86), WhiteS, Hussey, Cotter, Brayson (62), Rowe, Payn (87) Easterbrook (65), WestallC.

Subs: Bartolini (28), Ferguson (25), Bays (8), Hicks (4), Blair (3).

First and last game of November due to Lockdown II. A shame for us as we are on a bit of a roll. 5 wins and 5 clean sheets in a row since the MG game on October 3rd. Not conceding in 450mins+ at any grassroots level is pretty good and has certainly been a platform for our results.

Despite the rain from the previous night, the pitch was in good condition for a November evening under the lights. The game started with little quality on the deck, until Torpoint started to release Easterbrook and Westall down the channels, to no avail. A few pot shots at goal were off target or easily saved by Jackson. Throughout the game, particularly the 1st half, lots of needless, clumsy free kicks given away by both sides in the middle of the park. The deadline was broken around the 20min mark, with Tom Rowe receiving the ball on the halfway and clipping a ball over the centre half for the run of WestallC. Skip opened his body up and fooled everyone including me, but especially the helpless Jackson, scooping the ball over the keeper and into the net for a cheeky finish for his 8th of the season.

Not long after, Brayson scored his 3rd of the season with a diving header inside the box after good work down the right from Josh Payn. But a repeated episode from the reverse fixture with St Cleer, happy flag went up and the goal was disallowed for offside. I was stood right behind HF retrieving a match ball, the cross was straight and Brayson onside, IMO.

For the rest of the half, the ball into St Cleer's right hand channel was paying off, with WestallC and Easterbrook getting in behind. All came to no avail as WestallC had no left foot, making him an easier read than Clifford The Big Red Dog. Easterbrook had a fierce drive whistle past the post but Jackson wasn't troubled. StCleer had a number of corners and were unfortunate to not benefit from some excellent deliveries across the Torpoint 6yd box. But it remained 1-0 HT.

2nd half became a bit more of a battle with no man's land becoming heavier. Around the hour mark a loose ball was a race between StC's big No.5 and Matty Cotter. Cotter got their first in a brave tackle from the pair of them and the ball spilled to Rower, who played WestallC down the right, who bided his time to square to the onrushing Payn who finished superbly for his 1st competitive goal for the 3rd team. No.5 was down in discomfort and StC's backs were up and this riled them to up their intensity.

Minutes later the diminutive Brayson was halved by Zak Peel in a feisty tackle, cue Brayson rolling around like a fish out of water. I think the overreaction displeased Peel who kicked him in the head for good measure. I owe him a pint. But a booking should've been the minimum, and he stayed on the pitch. I didn't see if a card was issued. Peel continued his tirade for a while and was eventually subbed for his own financial protection.

Chances were few and far between in the latter part of the game with changes disrupting the flow and StC down to 10 with a sin bin, unhappy with any decision from thereafter. Jordan Dennis was a threat down the left for StC and a calmer head would've hampered Torpoint's chances of another clean sheet, but it wasn't to be. 2-0 FT.

Lockdown II is awful timing from a team POV, but it allows some of the lads to don their running trainers again and restart the 5km leaderboard to regain some fitness after a 10 game start to the season. Valuable points are on the board and hopefully BoJo allows grassroots to resume when sensible to do so, so we can play the game we love.

Thanks to St Cleer and Jon for cleaning their changing room and staying for a pint, it was greatly appreciated.

 

 

 

 

[Foul Throw 3]

Padstow 0 - 3 Torpoint Ath

Goals from Easterbrook x2 & Blair.

Lineup: WestallM, Bays, Quintrell, WhiteS, Hussey, Cotter (45), Rowe (65), Payn, Blair, Easterbrook, WestallC (70).

Subs: Bartolini (45), Trethewey (25), Robbins (20).

Over 5weeks since our last game at home vs St Cleer and it was a rusty encounter after a long trip to Padstow. Before the game, with obvious factors to consider, 3pts was still the minimum objective and I’d have taken that with another clean sheet. Mission complete. But the game didn’t have as much quality as we’d still expect and we’ll be disappointed not to have scored more, despite a good performance from the home goalkeeper.

The game started with both sides struggling to complete passes but Padstow in particular very keen to give the ball to Torpoint goalkeeper by going long into his box. Quintrell showed the most composure at the back and began to feed into Payn & Blair in midfield or WestallC up top. As the game grew, Torpoint did find themselves in the Padstow half time after time but crosses or final balls were honestly atrocious, with the biggest culprit being Foul Throw 3 himself with a headrush being that far up the pitch! But the signs were there that with an improvement in quality the deadlock would be broken. WestallC in a bid to impress his visiting girlfriend, teed up an overhead which went narrowly wide. The opening goal came from Easterbrook. With Padstow camped on the edge of their box, WestallC ran out of space and squared on the edge to Easterbrook, skinned three players with great footwork and found himself inside the box and drove a fierce shot into the bottom corner, 1-0.

The 2nd goal was fortuitous, but deserved based on the play. Blair was played through on goal in a race vs defender and goalkeeper. Goalkeeper had the trump card but kicked it into the onrushing Blair to loop back over and into the net for his 1^stcompetitive goal for the 3^rd team. WestallC also went close In the first half with a header and Hussey delivered a number of corners which the goalkeeper dealt with well. 2-0 HT.

The 2^nd half was virtually one way traffic, but the bobbly pitch and lack of match fitness began to show. A mixture of complacency and fatigue was enough to not add to the scoreline, until Easterbrook scored again late in the game. Robbins was played through on goal on his return (#back) and shouts of “why is he not sprinting?” reminded me of briefing advise I once received, “know your audience” cos he was at his full speed. Composure as usual and he squared for Easterbrook to touch and finish. Hussey will AGAIN feel heartbroken as a free kick from 30yds crashed against the crossbar, the 3^rd time this season it’s happened to the free kick “specialist”. It will come…

Back to Padstow Social Club after a welcome shower and we again defeated the host side with a 9-4 victory in attendance for a drink. The onion rings were decent!

Now another mini break with 16 days til our meeting with St Minver at The Mill in hope of doing the double over them. Big fixture Saturday though as it’s the Duchy Xmas Beer Run with months of unspent kitty and regret for Sunday morning. Up The Point!