Torquay United relish Chelmsford challenge

Essex side are the visitors to Plainmoor on Saturday afternoon

Torquay United are looking to build on Tuesday’s impressive 3-0 defeat of Farnborough when Chelmsford City come to Plainmoor on Saturday afternoon.

The Gulls dominated Tuesday’s encounter and could have won by more, but they are taking nothing for granted for the Chelmsford game.

The Essex side are one place and one point behind fourth-placed Torquay in the National League South table, and have not lost on the road yet this season.

Torquay assistant manager Aaron Downes said the management and squad at Plainmoor were under no illusions that Saturday’s match will be a genuine test.

“Chelmsford are a good side,” he said. “They were in the play-off picture last year and they’ll be in or around there this year as well.

“They have recruited well and there are some good players in their squad.

“It will be a tough game for us, but it is down to us to make sure we are prepared and ready.”

There is good news for Gulls fans from the treatment room, where injured players are making their way back to fitness rapidly.

Lewis Collins, Dan Martin and Finley Craske are on the mend from minor injuries, while long-term casualties Asa Hall and Kevin Dawson continue to make progress in training.

Another plus point for Gulls fans from the Farnborough victory was a confident and assured performance in midfield from Brett McGavin, who appears to be re-discovering the qualities that led to him being signed by Torquay in the first place.

There were also encouraging cameos from the bench for Ryan Hanson and Southampton loanee Luke Pearce, giving United fans plenty to look forward to ahead of Saturday’s game at Plainmoor.