Gulls made to regret missed chances

Torquay United 0-1 Coventry City

In the world’s oldest cup competition, it was the old adage of taking your chances that cost Torquay United, as they were left to rue their profligacy in front of goal on exiting the FA Cup.

A late Elliott Ward header sent Coventry through to the fifth round, though the Sky Blues can count themselves lucky to be in the last 16 at all after a spirited display from the home side in what was a pulsating cup tie.

For the first 20 minutes, it was Torquay on the back foot and under pressure as the Gulls started the match tentatively, giving Coventry too much time and space on the ball.

Freddy Eastwood spurned an early chance for the Sky Blues, heading over from Clinton Morrison’s cross with three minutes gone.

And after 11 minutes, it was Kevin Nicholson coming to Torquay’s rescue, showing great anticipation to clear Dan Fox’s effort off the line after some great work from the Coventry defender.

It looked like it could be a long afternoon for Torquay, but things started to settle down as the first half drew to a close, and it was The Gulls who came out brighter in the second half.

Matt Green was a thorn in Coventry’s side all afternoon, and the former Cardiff starlet burst clear after 54 minutes, forcing Kieran Westwood into a smart save.

And just minutes later, a Nicholson long throw caused chaos in the Coventry penalty area. With perhaps more time than he realised, Roscoe Dsane snatched at his chance and blazed his shot over.

By now it was Torquay in the ascendancy, with a sold out Plainmoor cheering them on, sensing a famous cup upset could be on the cards.

Coventry could sense it too, and when the usually reliable Westwood’s clearance fell invitingly to Wayne Carlisle with the goal at his mercy on the hour mark, Plainmoor held its breath. But again, Torquay couldn’t capitalize, and Carlisle’s chip sailed harmlessly wide.

There were yet more chances for Torquay. Steve Woods and Tim Sills both missed free headers, and you began to feel a lack of composure in front of goal when it really mattered would be costly.

And so it proved. An inviting Fox corner was met by the towering figure of Elliot Ward, and the centre-back made no mistake from close range. Ecstasy for Coventry, heartbreak for Torquay. One moment of madness had cost them dear.

With much still to play for, Torquay will hope that the players are able to use yesterday’s level of performance as an inspiration for the rest of the season. Based on this performance, a return to the Football League can’t be too far away.