United’s rearranged Buildbase FA Trophy 4th Round tie tomorrow sees The Gulls renew cup rivalry against familiar opponents.
Having bowed out away to Boreham Wood 3-1 after extra-time in 2018/19, Gary Johnson’s side exacted revenge on their Hertfordshire based opponents last season, with Torquay triumphing 3-2 at Plainmoor in their FA Cup 4th Qualifying Round match. Tuesday evening sees the FA Trophy take centre stage once again.
How Have They Been Doing?
The Wood are currently in 11th place, with 22 points from their 14 games. With only a third of the season gone, and games in hand over several of the sides above them, Luke Garrard’s men are well placed to mount another promotion challenge, following their play-off final defeat against Tranmere in 2017/18.
Having drawn 1-1 at Plainmoor against Johnson’s men in the league this season, The Gulls are sure to be in for another testing encounter tomorrow.
Who’s The Boss?
Having been in charge of The Wood since October 2015, Luke Garrard has overseen a remarkable rise by 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. 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 in July, a strong start to the current campaign leaves the Boreham boss hoping it will be third time lucky come this season’s finale.
Player To Watch
36-year old Matt Rhead has earned a reputation of being one of the most formidable centre forwards in the lower leagues, following spells at Eastwood, Mansfield and Lincoln amongst others.
Fiercely competitive and strong on the ball, Rhead has already established himself as a focal point in attack for The Wood so far this campaign, and has netted two goals in seventeen appearances.
Livestream access for this fixture can be purchased for £9.99 via Boreham Wood’s website here.
Torquay United will also be providing commentary of the encounter via Official TUFC Radio.
Buildbase FA Trophy | Boreham Wood v Torquay United | Behind Closed Doors | 19/01/21 7pm KO