It’s been a busy start to the new year for our Junior Premier League sides, as the Torquay United stars of the future continue their excellent progress across the age groups.
Our Under 12s were in league action away to Yeovil Town last weekend but were hampered by a number of players being unavailable for selection. In what was understandably a tough encounter, it was to the their great credit that the game remained scoreless after the first period. In fact, as the second period began, Torquay started to grow into the game and created a few chances, without managing to make the breakthrough. The home side eventually took control of the game, and two quick-fire goals put them in a commanding position. The Young Gulls refused to cave in though, with Toby Stewart coming close and Adam Reda Khalaf striking the crossbar with an excellent free kick. Yeovil took the game away from United in the closing stages with three further goals, but the 5-0 scoreline was scant reward for a committed display from our youngsters in testing circumstances. A special mention must go to forward Will Pendrous, who produced a Man of the Match display as a makeshift centre-back.
Meanwhile, the Under 13s were also away, with RTC North Somerset their opponents. Torquay started well in the first quarter, with Regan Lashenko forcing the goalkeeper into action with a 30-yard free kick. United’s youngsters deservedly took the lead in the second quarter, with Leo Driscoll firing high into the net from the edge of the box. The hosts began to impose themselves in the third quarter, however Torquay’s back four stood up to the task well and nearly extended their lead with Olly Bellotti firing narrowly wide. As the came entered the final quarter, RTC North Somerset began to throw everything at United in a bid to save the game. However with Jack Allen and Archie Garvey working tirelessly in midfield, United continued to hold firm and saw out the game to secure a superb 1-0 win.