Jimmy Ball says Torquay United will head to Essex with belief, focus and a fully-fit squad as the Gulls prepare for Saturday’s National League South Play-Off Final at Hornchurch.
There was positive news on Munashe Sundire, who was forced off following a collision with Dan Hayfield during last weekend’s semi-final victory over Dorking Wanderers.
Ball praised his players for their performance in the 4-2 win over Dorking, describing it as “an outstanding day for the football club”, and said the squad had shown different qualities in recent weeks — from patience and composure at Tonbridge Angels, to the front-foot intensity that saw United take control of the semi-final.
“They showed me a side against Dorking that could literally go for the throat, get hold of the throat and never let go of it,” said Ball.
The United boss also made a point of acknowledging the work that had gone before him this season, paying tribute to Paul Wotton, Ronnie Jepson and Neil Warnock.
“Some credit needs to go to Paul Wotton,” said Ball. “He’s put a very good squad together and he deserves credit for that.
“Some credit needs to go to Ronnie and Neil stepping in and galvanising it a little bit. They had a big impact in the short spell here.”
Hornchurch, who finished second in National League South, have earned home advantage, and Ball is under no illusions about the challenge awaiting his side.
“They are really good. They’re not second in the league for no reason,” he said. “We’ll have to be great.”
United will be backed by a sold-out away allocation, while at least 2,000 more supporters will gather at Plainmoor for the Club’s Play-Off Final Watch Party.
Ball’s message to the Yellow Army was simple: enjoy the occasion.
“It’s been a long time coming.”
Following a final training session on the Plainmoor pitch on Friday morning, United’s players and staff departed by coach at lunchtime, bound for Essex and one final push.
