Young Gulls make impressive start to National League Youth Alliance League campaign
Torquay United U19s made an excellent start to their National League Youth Alliance League campaign with an impressive 6–0 victory over Havant & Waterlooville.
From the opening whistle, Torquay showed excellent energy, quality and intent, producing some outstanding passages of play throughout the game. The team moved the ball with confidence and created numerous opportunities, with the attacking players particularly impressive in front of goal.
Harry Trustcott led the way with a superb hat-trick, demonstrating excellent composure and movement in and around the penalty area. Albie Baker, George Powell and Ethan Ratcliffe were also on target as Torquay completed a convincing six-goal victory.
The result was made even more pleasing by the number of new players. Will Leigh, Harry Asante, Ashton Harvey, Noah Bevan, Jake Thomas and Hoyt Spencer all stepped onto the pitch for their first appearances and produced encouraging performances. Goal scorers George Powell and Harry Trustcott also made their first appearances for the side, marking their debuts in memorable fashion.
At the other end of the pitch, Mackenzie Nettleton- Stokes played an important role in securing the clean sheet. He made several excellent saves, particularly early and late in the game, when Havant & Waterlooville threatened to find a way back into the contest. His contribution ensured Torquay maintained a deserved clean sheet to complement the impressive attacking display.
There were plenty of positives for the coaching staff to take from the performance. The quality of the passing, movement and combination play produced some excellent passages of football, while the attitude and application of the players remained strong throughout.
A 6–0 win in the opening game of the National League Youth Alliance League provides an excellent platform for the season ahead, with the performances of the first-year players and the attacking quality offering plenty of encouragement for the matches to come.
MOM – Ashton Harvey