Following Tuesday night’s last-gasp win away to East Thurrock, United return to Plainmoor face another side fighting for survival.
Who’s the boss?
Marc McGregor was appointed as the Seagulls’ manager in the summer of 2017, having previously served the club as both assistant manager and player. After his professional career with Oxford Utd, Notts County and QPR was curtailed due to injury, Marc moved into non-league football, before taking up coaching spells with Worcester City and Swindon Town. An impressive first season culminated in a 12th place National League South finish and silverware in the form of the Somerset Cup.
How are they doing?
The Seagulls are currently rooted to the bottom of the division, with 20 points from 30 games. Although they are currently ten points adrift of safety, they do have games in hand over all of their rivals. Weston’s problems this season have been compounded by a defence that has seen them ship 60 goals – only two sides in NLS have conceded more. Their 2-2 draw against ourselves back in October though, is ample proof of their ability to match any side at this level on their day.
Players to watch
Ex-Cardiff youngster Jarrad Welch is arguably the most promising prospect in the Weston squad. Following his release by the Bluebirds, it took some time for the midfielder to settle into senior football, however this season has seen him develop into a first-team regular, with many predicting a possible future in the Football league for the 20 year-old Welshman.
Familiar faces
Two players with a very recent history with United have represented the Seagulls this season. 30 year-old winger Jennison Myrie-Williams made 10 league appearances last season following a career that has taken in spells with Cheltenham, Tranmere and Port Vale amongst others. George Dowling’s loan spell at the Woodspring Stadium followed a similar spell with the Gulls last season, which yielded 21 appearances and 2 goals for the Bristol City starlet.
Previous encounters
Our only previous league clash saw the Gulls and Seagulls fight out a 2-2 draw in October in front of a 1,730 supporters. Matt Bower gave the home side the lead, before strikes from Saikou Janneh and Opi Edwards put United in pole position. The drama was not over though, with Samir Nabi being sent-off for handball in the closing stages. Although Shaun MacDonald saved the resulting spot-kick, Brad Ash equalised moments later to ensure the points were shared.
National League South | Torquay United Vs Weston-super-Mare | 02/03/19 | Plainmoor | To order in advance click here. If this is your first visit to Plainmoor click here.