Following the disappointment of Saturday’s postponement, United are back on the road again as they make the journey to Vauxhall Road to take on Hemel Hempstead Town.
Who’s the boss?
Joe Deeney was appointed as Hemel Hempstead manager back in November, following the departure of Dean Brennan to Billericay Town. Deeney was previously assistant manager at divisional rivals Oxford City, after his professional career with Luton Town was cut short by injury.
How are they doing?
Town have been a picture of inconsistency this season, with 10 wins, eight draws and nine defeats from their 27 games. Whilst never looking seriously under threat neat the bottom of the table, the Tudors have so far also been unable to put together a run of form which would see them compete for a play-off place. However, their ability to perform against the best sides in the division on their day has been proven, care of a shock 1-0 away win over Bath City back in November.
Players to watch
Former Cambridge, Morecambe and Kettering keeper Laurie Walker has been a mark of consistency this season, with the 29 year old making more appearances than any other player. Laurie is a real crowd favourite with the Vauxhall Road faithful, having enjoyed two spells with the club. Ex-Arsenal youngster Sanchez Watt joined Hemel in the summer, following a successful spell on loan from Billericay last season. As a youngster, Watt was capped by England up to Under-19 level, and he has continued to shown his undoubted pedigree this season with 7 goals in 21 games so far.
Familiar Faces
Although none of the current Tudors squad have played for United, there will still be a few faces at Vauxhall Road that the Yellow Army will recognise. Experienced defender Ismail Yakubu has faced the Gulls many times before in the colours of Barnet and Woking and at the age 33, is still a commanding figure at the back. Midfielder Rob Sinclair meanwhile has more reason that most to relish facing Torquay – he netted for Oxford City in their 1-0 win back in August, before being signed by manager Joe Deeney.
Previous Encounters
United have met Town only once before in league action, with late goals at Plainmoor back in early September settling the game for the Gulls. Jamie Reid struck his first goal of the season prior to Asa Hall coming up with a trademark header to put the game beyond doubt.
National League South | Hemel Hempstead Town Vs Torquay United | 12/02/19 | 7:45pm KO | Adults £14:00, Concessions £9:00 (OAP’s), 17-12 Year Olds are £1:00 when accompanying an adult or £5 if alone. U12’s ARE FREE WHEN ACCOMPANYING A PAYING ADULT or £5 if alone.
Hemel Hempstead FC, Vauxhall Road, Hemel Hempstead, Herts, HP2 4HW