United head into Saturday’s game against Barrow hoping that they can spark belief in the Yellow Army that they can avert relegation this season. With fifteen games left, United still have time to mount a serious challenge for survival. TUFC head coach Gary Owers is well aware of the importance of Saturday’s match against the Bluebirds.
“It’s a big game, a very important game considering the context of the season,” said TUFC head coach Gary Owers during his weekly press call.
“The only thing we’re trying to do is to do our best to get three points on Saturday. Everyone knows the position that we’re in. Barrow is a team that we are trying to close the gap on and we’re playing them on Saturday, so everyone knows the consequences of the result.
“We’ve got to close the gap and be in it when the games come at the end of the season. We’re at the bottom of the league and we’ve got it all to do.”
The Gaffer also spoke about the influence that new loan signing Connor Lemonheigh-Evans might have on the game.
“He can do that attacking midfield role, he can do a number 10. I’ve also seen him play as a holding midfield player. He’s versatile.
“I took Connor because I’ve worked with him and I know he can improve the quality in the squad. As far as I am concerned I just want the best amount of quality players that I can get. And if he’s better than George [Dowling[ or he’s better than Tommy [O’Sullivan] then so be it – I want competition.”
United’s need for points may force the Gaffer’s hand and determine what sort of team he puts onto the pitch. Also, United now have six loan players which means one of them will have to miss out on inclusion in the match day squad.
“I have to try and put offensive players into the team, and the problem I have got, and again it has taken that extra loan player where one is omitted. I have rotated, Aaron missed out, then young Alex [Fletcher] missed out. Someone else will have to miss out and that’s part of the situation.”
Aaron Barnes is available to play after moving permanently to Colchester United, and then back to Torquay United on loan until the end of the season. Yan Klukowski has missed a few days of training as he recovers from a knock. Goalkeeper Ryan Clarke is out of contention after picking up an ankle injury against Macclesfield Town. Myles Anderson is due to return to the Club after finishing his loan spell with Chester and Ryan Higgins is still absent on personal grounds.
For a closer look at our opponents click here.
Torquay United Vs Barrow AFC | 03/02/18 | 3pm Kick-Off
Torquay United Football Club
Plainmoor
Torquay
TQ1 3PS
For match day information head here.
For ticket information head here.
Gulls Nest
You can join us in the Gulls Nest bar from midday for a pre-match drink. We’ll be showing the 12:30pm kick-off between Burnley and Manchester City.
Access to the Gulls Nest is possible through a Family Stand/Bristows Bench turnstile.