Western Morning News (Saturday)
Johnson expecting a tough game as resurgent Torquay welcome Billericay
Torquay United have matched or beaten a whole series of dangerous opponents during Gary Johnson’s unbeaten first eight games in charge, but not even the Gulls’ ever-cheerful manager underestimates the task which almost certainly awaits them against National League South leaders Billericay Town at Plainmoor today.
The Gulls under Johnson are trying to get back to where they believe they belong, while just-promoted Billericay have their sights set on hitherto uncharted territory.
“We are going into a very big game now with a club that’s put a lot of money and experience into their team. I am sure they will be there or thereabouts,” said Johnson, whose side are seven points behind their opponents.
“I am expecting a tough game, that’s for sure. They have a very experienced squad, and I know four or five of their players very well, including some I have managed.
“We are trying to claw them back to us, and they will see it as a big result if they get a result here.
“It would be great if we get the same supporters and the same noise we had at Weston – if we get that first 3,000 crowd, I am sure that will give us a bit of an advantage.”
Johnson was referring to the 1,000-plus fans who travelled to Tuesday night’s 2-2 draw at bottom-of-the-table Westonsuper-Mare and, of course, United have to pick themselves up from the disappointment of not holding on to a lead in the closing stages at the Woodspring Stadium.
Johnson confirmed that United are appealing against the straight red card, and with it a one-match suspension, for Samir Nabi’s “handball” at Weston. Replays appear to back Nabi’s insistence that the ball hit the point of his shoulder, not his arm, and flew over the bar.
The Gulls have also lost defender George Essuman to an ankle injury sustained in midweek, so no wonder Johnson is keeping everything crossed that Bristol City pass on-loan midfielder Jake Andrews fit to return after a knee problem.
None of United’s other injured players, including Asa Hall who is out for at least a fortnight with a knee injury, are back yet.
Torquay United could soon have Plainmoor all to themselves once again, after Truro City chairman Peter Masters indicated the current groundshare deal is poised to end.
With Truro’s old Treyew Road ground still available – the redevelopment plans which prompted City to move 90 miles up to South Devon have been delayed again until next year – the White Tigers have been given permission by the National League to return after a ground re-inspection.
Masters has said he hopes City will be back home by December 1.