Jimmy Ball believes Torquay United are beginning to show what they are capable of after an emphatic victory at Maidenhead – with the Gulls boss also confirming that one further addition to his squad could follow.
United made it back-to-back victories with Tuesday night’s 4-0 success at York Road, and Ball was delighted with a performance he described as “relentless”.
“I thought we were fantastic. I really do,” he said. “I thought we were relentless.”
Ball revealed that United went into the game with a specific plan to deal with Maidenhead’s pronounced slope, electing to defend it during the opening 45 minutes before introducing greater width after the break.
“My plan was always to go wide second half, down the hill. We were brave in that aspect.
“We defended the hill first half, which you can come a cropper with. But I backed the defenders to keep a clean sheet first half, then second half we went with width.
“So we had a game plan and it worked.”
The United boss felt his side briefly tried to force the issue after Maidenhead were reduced to ten men, before rediscovering the patience required to break their hosts down.
“We actually lost a bit of quality for about ten minutes, thinking we’ll just force this and it’ll happen.
“We needed to show a little bit more patience, move them around a little bit more, and we did that.”
For Ball, the result provided further evidence that the attacking quality has always been within his squad, even during a difficult opening period when United were creating opportunities without consistently converting them.
“I’ve seen enough to know that when we get rhythm and momentum, and players understand what’s acceptable every single game – total commitment, energy and aggressiveness in the way we attack – we’ll have our days.”
Recruitment Continues
Four new faces have arrived at Plainmoor over the past week, but Ball confirmed United’s recruitment work may not yet be complete.
“There’s a couple of positions within the squad I’d like to strengthen,” he said.
“But I’m in a position now where I can take my time and make sure of the decisions that I’m making.
“There’s no rush now, but I’d like to bring one more in for sure. It’s going to be a calculated one.”
Among the recent arrivals are Plymouth Argyle youngsters Tegan Finn and Caleb Roberts, with Assistant Manager Darren Way’s knowledge of the pair playing an important role in bringing them to Plainmoor.
“Darren was their coach for several years at Argyle and spoke extremely highly of them, particularly about their temperament.
“You need kids to come on loan who show no arrogance and no entitlement whatsoever and come in with the right attitude.
“They’ve both definitely got that and they’ve got some serious talent. I’ve absolutely no doubt they’ve got great careers ahead.”
Ball was equally enthusiastic about centre-back Oludare Olufunwa, who impressed during Tuesday night’s victory.
“When you look at his career and what he’s done – three years at Liverpool, three years in the Scottish Premiership – he’s got some serious pedigree.
“He’s a monster athletically and he can play. I’m really happy with that one.
“Great kid, great mentality, great attitude.”
Positive Injury News
Meanwhile, Ball offered reassurance over Angelo Cappello, who was withdrawn at Maidenhead after feeling some tightness in his hamstring.
United are confident the winger has avoided a significant injury, although he will be managed cautiously.
“He just felt his hamstring,” said Ball. “We’re of the belief that it’s nothing serious, but it’s something we need to have a bit of caution with.
“I’m pleased he sat down straight away once he felt it. We’re fairly confident it’s nothing serious, so we’ll just have to be cautious with him for the next week or so.”
There was also encouraging news regarding Harry Shield, whose rehabilitation continues to progress.
“The boot is off and he’s now running,” Ball added.
“He’s done some AlterG work at Marjon this week and he’ll be full-on running next week.
“He’s not feeling any pain – not that he’d tell us if he was, because he’s desperate to be back.
“So, all positive.”
