Our U18s side travel to play their counterparts at Mangotsfield United on Monday in their latest taste of FA Youth Cup action.
The progression in the FA Youth Cup contributes to a busy start to the new season. The players started their season by signing their playing contracts which took place at Plainmoor with members of their families, Torquay United co-chairman Michael Westcott, first team manager Jimmy Ball, U18s manager Craig Hutcheson, and U18s coach Paul Bishop.
Youth team manager Craig Hutcheson fills us in on the progress of the team and the challenge ahead to progress in the FA Youth Cup.
“I am delighted with the quality, attitude and potential within the current squad,” said Craig. “We have a strong blend of players who have progressed through our own youth programme, alongside players who have previously been released by local academy programmes. This combination has created a positive and competitive environment, with the players quickly developing strong relationships and a real sense of togetherness throughout preseason.
“The players have adapted extremely well to the physical, technical and tactical demands of U18 football. They are benefiting from a full-time training programme, incorporating technical and tactical sessions, physical conditioning, match analysis, individual feedback and the use of GPS data to monitor and support their physical development.
“Our progress in the FA Youth Cup has been particularly encouraging, securing victories over Weston-super-Mare and Barnstaple Town. We now look forward to facing Mangotsfield United FC in the Third Round Preliminary Tie, which provides another excellent opportunity for the players to test themselves against strong opposition and continue their development on a competitive stage.
“Our league campaign began positively with an impressive 4–1 away victory against Barnstaple Town. We then experienced a closely contested 2–1 defeat away to Wimborne Town, in a game that provided the players with valuable experience and further learning opportunities.
“Most pleasing has been the players attitude towards their learning, development and representing Torquay United. Their commitment, professionalism and willingness to improve has been outstanding, and it has been a real pleasure to see them embrace the standards and expectations required of them. The group are developing not only as footballers, but also as young people. We are trying to encourage consistency in behaviours and performances to ensure we give them the best opportunity to reach their full potential.”
The team would appreciate all the support they can get from the Yellow Army so if you can get along to support the lads it would be appreciated!
Mangotsfield United U18s Vs TUFC U18s | 12/10/26 | 7:30pm KO Venue: Cossham Street Mangotsfield BS16 9EN
Admission Prices: Adult £3 | Concession £2 | U18 £1 | U12 Free with Paying Adult
