Torquay United manager Jimmy Ball has called for another “relentless” performance from his side as they travel to face Slough Town this Saturday.
Coming off a perfect bank holiday weekend that saw the Gulls net seven goals, Ball is eager to keep the momentum swinging in United’s favour.
Speaking at the pre-match press call, the Gulls’ boss reflected on the recent shift in mentality that has seen Torquay move aggressively up the table.
“We’ve been working on being a lot more front-footed and positive,” Ball said. “It’s about building and maintaining pressure. You don’t want it in little flashes; you want long periods where you’re just waiting for that defensive breakdown.”
While the Gulls are high on confidence, Ball is taking nothing for granted against a “difficult” Slough side known for their athletic counter-attacks. For the trip to Arbour Park, United will be looking to implement several key tactical adjustments:
Ball emphasised the need to be “very, very organised” when in possession. United plan to be slightly more conservative with the number of bodies committed forward to ensure they have “safety behind the ball” against Slough’s pace on the break.
Despite Slough’s 4G pitch, Ball has dismissed any concerns over the surface. United train on a plastic pitch daily at their own facilities, meaning “there are no excuses” regarding the ball’s livelier bounce.
Following the heavy holiday schedule, players like Sonny Blu Lo-Everton, who was used as a “finisher” to great effect last weekend, remain key to Ball’s strategy of utilising fresh legs to kill off games late.
In a significant boost to the squad, Munashe Sundire has successfully completed three full training sessions without any setbacks. Ball confirmed the club is “99% the way there” with the player, marking a near-full return to fitness for the business end of the season.
“We’re having fun, we’re enjoying it,” Ball concluded. “But we’ve got to go to Slough and win. That’s all that is in my head at the moment.”
