Torquay United supporters have every reason to be buzzing ahead of this weekend’s big home clash with Hemel Hempstead Town, following a ruthless attacking display on the road that sent a clear message to the promotion rivals.
The Gulls delivered one of their most emphatic performances of the season with a 5–1 hammering of Slough Town, overwhelming their hosts inside a devastating opening 25 minutes.
Jimmy Ball’s United have now scored 12 goals in the last three outings and the atmosphere at Plainmoor for the Easter Monday defeat of Bath City was one of the best in recent memory.
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Fast Start Sets the Tone
It didn’t take long for United to stamp their authority at Slough. Dylan Morgan opened the scoring with a composed finish before Jordan Young added another moment of quality. Deon Moore then took centre stage, grabbing two goals in quick succession to put the result beyond doubt before many fans had even settled in.
By the 24-minute mark, United were 4–0 up—and in complete control.
Even though Slough Town managed a late consolation, the Gulls had the final word as Reece Evans coolly converted in stoppage time after good work from Charlie Osborne.
Jimmy Ball: “Ruthless and Relentless”
Manager Jimmy Ball couldn’t hide his satisfaction, praising both the clinical edge and the aggressive mindset his side showed throughout.
“It was a great start, really bright and aggressive in our attacking,” said Ball. “We kept on coming and when a team scores early, it chucks the game-plan out of the window, so we had to capitalise on them [Slough] having to do something different.
“We were ruthless, scored goals and I’m pleased for everyone. It’s the kind of surface where you have to be really accurate, not just leather it, and he [Morgan] was.
“Deon was a proper centre-forward, in the right place at the right time for a tap-in, and his second goal was an excellent finish with his left foot. It was also a typically good finish from Youngy as well.”
Yellow Army Making the Difference
If the performance was impressive, the travelling support was just as remarkable.
“We were very front-footed, very aggressive and keeping teams penned in is what we all want to do, and what fans want to watch,” said Ball. “We’ve got the players to do it, whoever starts or comes off the bench.
“The total attendance was 1,200 and I genuinely think we might have had a 1,000 here, which was incredible, and we responded to that.”
All Eyes on Hemel Hempstead
Now the focus shifts to the final home game of the regular season against Hemel Hempstead Town—a side known for their defensive strength and resilience.
With Worthing still leading the race for automatic promotion and Dorking Wanderers slipping up away at AFC Totton, the equation remains simple: keep winning and apply pressure.
“There was no real surprise in the other results, I fancied Totton because it’s a tricky place to play, but we just keep going and if we can’t win it, we have to try and get second,” added Ball.
“All games are tough and Hemel are a really strong side, with an excellent defensive record and threats as well. Every single game will be approached in the same manner, feet on the ground, be humble and come up with a game-plan after studying the opposition.”
A Huge Occasion at Plainmoor
Saturday’s match isn’t just another fixture—it’s a defining moment.
- The final home game of the regular season
- Promotion hopes still alive
- Momentum firmly with the Gulls
- A packed, passionate Yellow Army expected
If the performance at Slough is anything to go by, Torquay United are hitting form at exactly the right time. And with the home crowd behind them, they’ll be looking to deliver another statement result when Hemel Hempstead Town come to town.
The stage is set.
