United will once again be under the spotlight tomorrow, as Gary Johnson’s men take on Boreham Wood in front of the watching BT Sport cameras.
With results in midweek seeing Torquay’s near-five month reign as league leaders brought to a halt, Saturday’s trip to Hertfordshire provides an ideal opportunity for Johnson’s men to get back on track against a side they have already faced twice this season.
Who’s The Boss?
Having been in charge of Hertfordshire-based outfit since October 2015, Luke Garrard has overseen a remarkable rise during his time with the club, who have since established themselves at non-league’s top table.
As a player, Garrard represented a number of clubs including the likes of Swindon Town and AFC Wimbledon before arriving at Meadow Park eleven years ago, and after steadying the ship following the departure of previous boss Ian Allison, The Wood went all the way to Wembley to contest an EFL place with Tranmere in 2018, before repeating the play-off feat last time out.
Although Harrogate ultimately ended Football League aspirations at the semi-final stage last July, a strong first half showing in 2020/21 leaves the Boreham boss hoping it will be third time lucky come this season’s finale.
How Have They Been Doing?
Boreham are currently in 10th place, with their tally of 37 points from their 27 games leaving them just one point off the National League play-off positions.
Having drawn 1-1 at Plainmoor earlier in the season, prior to The Gulls’ emphatic 4-0 away at Meadow Park just two months ago, The Wood will be relishing the opportunity to perform in front of a live televised audience tomorrow evening.
Player To Watch
No stranger to Plainmoor, Tyrone Marsh is enjoying his second spell at Boreham, following his move from League Two side Stevenage last month.
Marsh began his senior career at Oxford United, before proving his worth at non-League level, as he became a regular scorer at the likes of Staines, Welling, Torquay, and Macclesfield. Having registered 15 goals in 40 games during his last spell at the club, Wood fans will be hoping for more of the same from the Bedford-born hitman.
Played For Both
Another player who is no stranger to Torquay United is Krystian Pearce, with the defender standing out during a largely forgettable 2013/14 season, as the Yellow Army voted him their Player of the Season.
After beginning his career at Birmingham City, Barbadian international Pearce went on to represent Scunthorpe, Notts County and Mansfield Town amongst others, prior to joining Garrard’s men earlier this year following a brief spell at Solihull Moors.
Previous Encounter
The Gulls looked all but doomed as they headed for Hertfordshire in February 2016, with Kevin Nicholson’s team languishing well adrift at the foot of the National League.
Whilst Nathan Blissett’s second-half winner – his first goal in United’s colours – may have made only a small dent into Torquay’s points deficit following the 1-0 win, that result proved to be the catalyst for a remarkable turnaround in form, with the side eventually securing safety with two games to spare.
In association with LV BET
In addition to this match being shown live on BT Sport, Torquay United AFC will also be providing live commentary of the encounter via Official TUFC Radio.
National League | Boreham Wood Vs Torquay United | BT Sport | 13/03/21 | 5:20pm KO/