Following a double-winning 2022/23 campaign, United’s new Under-18 squad are nearing the end of their pre-season work, with Head Coach Ryan Dickson pleased with his side’s preparations so far.
“It’s been going well, numbers, have been high, so it’s just confirming our squad now,” said Dickson.
“Everyone’s had games, everyone’s had minutes, and everyone’s had the chance to impress and make that squad. Now it’s down to us to get it down to that final 18, and for the two weeks leading up to the season, working on how we’re going to play, our principles, and getting the players to buy into what we expect moving forward, our team shape, and way of playing.”
Like any other team preparing for a new season, United’s U18s have played a number of warm-up matches against a variety of opponents including Plymouth Argyle, Bristol Rovers, Truro City and most notably, Southampton.
“The Truro game went quite well – 2-0, and everyone got minutes. To play against Southampton’s Under-18s on their main pitch with a small stand, and with all their facilities, gave them a feel for one of the best Premiership or Academy sides in the country.
“A lot of times, teams would play younger kids or triallists, but it was a privilege that they honoured it, and gave us that respect to play their strongest 18s, which was great for the lads. The result was heavy (6-0) which isn’t ideal, but it’s minutes and an experience to play for Torquay’s Under-18s.
“Yesterday we played Argyle, and again it was a mixed bag as we played everybody. We went 2-0 down, 3-2 up and then conceded late on to lose 4-3. It’s not all about the result, it’s about fitness, but there is work to be done to get the lads to the level that’s needed for this age group.
“Potentially we have some good talent coming through.”