Torquay United fight back to secure dramatic and deserved win over Chesham

Torquay United produced a determined comeback to claim all three points against Chesham United at Plainmoor, in a dramatic contest that saw both teams reduced to ten men.

The visitors struck first through Karl Oliyide, but the Gulls responded before half-time thanks to Sonny Fish’s maiden goal for the club. Dan Hayfield then emerged as the match-winner after the interval, scoring his first goal of the season to secure a hard-earned victory.

United made one change to the side that defeated Salisbury in midweek, with Jordan Dyer returning to the starting line-up in place of Munashe Sundire.

Chesham made a bright start and took the lead after just three minutes. A corner was delivered to the back post and, with Torquay unable to clear their lines, Oliyide was on hand to tap home from close range.

Despite the early setback, the home side gradually began to assert control. Sonny Blu Lo-Everton came close to equalising in the 34th minute, forcing a fine save from goalkeeper Ben Goode.

Torquay’s pressure paid off two minutes later. Played into the box, Fish took a touch before calmly slotting into the net, sparking celebrations among the Plainmoor faithful and ensuring the teams went into the break level.

The second half continued at a lively pace, with chances at both ends before Chesham were reduced to ten men. Alfie Young was shown a red card by the referee following an off-the-ball incident.

Ed Palmer appeared to have doubled his tally in the 65th minute, only for the effort to be ruled out for a push, cutting celebrations short.

United’s decisive moment arrived in the 74th minute. Dylan Morgan surged down the left and delivered a low cross into the six-yard box, where Hayfield flicked the ball into the near post to give the Gulls the lead.

The match still had further twists. Torquay were also reduced to ten men when Will Tizzard received two bookings in quick succession, leaving the hosts to defend their advantage for the final 13 minutes.

Chesham piled pressure on the Torquay defence in the closing stages, sending a series of balls into the box. However, the Gulls stood firm, with Hayfield capping a memorable performance by bravely heading the ball off the line in the 98th minute to deny the visitors a dramatic equaliser.

The victory marks back-to-back wins for Torquay United, lifting spirits around Plainmoor ahead of next Saturday’s trip to Dagenham.