Torquay United end away-day blues with superb successive wins

Torquay United headed into a difficult week knowing that a change in the away-day script was crucial.

Despite playing well at home to leaders Hornchurch, a first home defeat of the campaign provided a difficult pretext for the trips to Farnborough and Maidenhead, but the Gulls have responded in style.

Farnborough were outclassed in a 3-1 win on Wednesday and Maidenhead felt the same attacking force, as Callum Dolan and an own goal put United in control, with a late consolation somewhat flattering on the hosts.

Dolan was in the thick of the action from the opening whistle, picking up an early caution before having two attempts narrowly off target. United boss Paul Wotton then had to make an unexpected change, captain Matt Worthington replaced by Dan Hayfield in midfield.

Despite that disruption, United took control of the game, as Dolan and Jordan Young both had shots saved by goalkeeper Jordi Van Stappershoef. The travelling Yellow Army was in full voice, enjoying their side playing with obvious belief and confidence.

Louis Dennis, who scored twice at Farnborough, tested Van Stappershoef again but the home custodian had no chance when Dolan let fly from distance for a deserved opening goal five minutes before half-time.

Dennis fizzed a shot over to complete an excellent first period and the momentum continued after the break. Sonny Fish replaced Dennis for some fresh legs in the vanguard and Dylan Morgan came on for the impressive Dolan.

Young attempted a trademark curler after cutting inside from the right, saved by Van Stappershoef. His next block was even better, again thwarting Young, this time from a free-kick.

The second United thoroughly deserved finally arrived on 72 minutes and it came from another dangerous ball into the penalty area. Fish was poised to score his first in yellow but a Maidenhead defender did the job for him.

United continued ploughing forward in search of a third and it was only in the dying minutes that Maidenhead began to threaten. Liam Duslon did reduce the arrears in stoppage time but the Gulls ran out winners to complete an excellent few days on the road.

Next up is Maidstone United in the FA Trophy at Plainmoor.