Match Reaction: Missed chances hurt ten-man Torquay United

Three great chances spurned in the final 30 minutes of a 1-1 draw at Chippenham Town will be the storyline that frustrates Torquay United manager Gary Johnson for the next few days.

Played in horrendous conditions, a howling wind and sweeping rain, both teams and all supporters deserve credit for putting on a show, and the Gulls were in moderate control when Will Jenkins Davies gave them an early lead.

Unfortunately, the game turned around the same man, as Jenkins Davies was dismissed for a second bookable offence midway through the second period and Chippenham promptly levelled through their captain Matt McClure.

Despite that double setback, United had three big chances to win the game but could not find another way past home custodian Will Henry.

“We’re disappointed that we didn’t see the game out and unfortunate that we had to play the last half-hour with ten men,” said Johnson. “We didn’t feel Will’s first booking should have been a booking.

“The lads worked hard, especially when we had ten men, as the 100mph wind came in. We got the goal early and thought we would let them have the ball because they’re a passing team. We could then break on them, which we did, even with ten men.

“During that half-hour with ten men, we created three great opportunities and I can’t get that out of my head because one of those has got to go in. There were great saves by the goalie but they were 100% good chances.

“In one way, I’m pleased with the boys because both teams did well in this weather but I’m disappointed to miss those chances. If we’re going to get our promotion, we need to win games that are tight.”

The point at Chippenham leaves United seventh in the National League South, occupying the final play-off position, but they do have two games in hand on three of the teams above them, including second-placed Worthing, who host the Gulls in a massive game on Saturday.