Match Reaction: A demonstration of love for Torquay United

Aaron Downes has paid tribute to the Yellow Army and the football community for an incredible demonstration of support for Torquay United in the 2-2 draw with Aveley at Plainmoor.

Over 3,600 crammed into TQ1 for a fantastic atmosphere, with fans from Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City also in attendance, as the football family came together in the wake of a distressing few days for the Gulls following news of the club’s intention to enter administration.

Interim boss Downes has praised the amazing response from all around the globe, as Torquay United step tentatively into a phase of worrying uncertainty.

“The support shown to this football club over the last 48 hours has been phenomenal,” said Downes. “They have shown their support by coming in numbers and we’ve had tickets bought from all over the world, knowing they can’t be here.

“We’ve had fans from other clubs supporting us, donations flooding in and it is so humbling and heartening to know this football club is held so highly around the country and the world

“I’m so proud to play my little part in it and so proud of the supporters. When the chips are down and tough times are upon us, we can get together and we have shown this club is unified.

“I thank every single supporter for playing their part.”  

On the pitch, United enjoyed an excellent first-half display, surging in front with a header Aaron Jarvis and the lively Brad Ash rifling home after a goalmouth scramble.

Aveley, however, notched a penalty with the last kick of the first period after a foul by Austen Booth and the visitors got their point with a sensational long-range volley early in the second period.

“Overall, the supporters wanted to see commitment and passion, and they got that,” said Downes.

“In general, we played well and we were really happy with the first half. We started a little slow but then took over the game and took control.

“The penalty was a sucker-punch because it could have been dealt with two or three times, which was disappointing but the players knew that. In the second half, we’ve been done by a fantastic strike from their lad.

“The penalty was disappointing because we didn’t stay high enough and I think Austen might have got a touch on it, I’m not 100% certain it was penalty, but we should be dealing with it before that.  

“Aveley are a tough team to play against, they work hard and they’re dogged, but I thought we were unlucky not to win the game. We had enough chances to win and I was really proud of the players and how they performed.

“Overall, it was a positive performance and we feel a little aggrieved not to get three points. A point for Aveley is a good result for them and you could see we were trying to go for a winner. There were a couple of really good chances, we were unlucky, but I was really pleased with the application to try and win it.

“We want to give the supporters a team that is positive and looking to score goals.”