Managerial Background
Torquay United will host the Daggers on August 22, 2026, with manager Jimmy Ball looking to keep a seven‑win streak alive. Ball, the son of 1966 World Cup winner Alan Ball, began his coaching career with spells at Christchurch and Winchester City before working with Portsmouth and Irish side Shelbourne. He later coached the Puget Sound Gunners in the United States, then returned to England to work within the academies at Blackburn Rovers and Stoke City.
In April 2021, Ball was handed his first senior managerial role at Forest Green Rovers, taking temporary charge of the first team after Mark Cooper’s departure. He guided the club through the remainder of the 2020/21 campaign before returning to his role with the Under‑18s. He joined Stevenage as first‑team coach in January 2022, then took the managerial reins at AFC Totton two months later. His four‑year spell with the Stags culminated in promotion to the National League South in 2024/25 after a victory over Gloucester City in the play‑off final.
Ball moved to Torquay United in March 2026, replacing Gary Johnson. He has recorded seven wins from his opening 12 games in charge, a record that has kept the Gulls in the top of the National League South.
Summer Signings
The Gulls’ summer transfer window focused on building a side capable of pushing further up the table. Goalkeeper Toby Savin, 25, arrives with 91 appearances for Accrington Stanley and spells at Shrewsbury Town, Barnet, Halifax Town and Wigan Athletic. Standing 6ft 4in, Savin brings a strong presence between the posts.
Defenders added include Kian Jenkins, Dominic Bernard, Jake Wannell, Tyler Hill and Harry Shield. Midfield reinforcement came in the form of Sean Robertson, while the attack now features Issac Westendorf and Callum Morton.
One player to watch is Deon Moore, who joined the Gulls permanently in July after an initial move in March. Moore made eight appearances and scored four goals last season, helping Torquay reach the play‑off final.
Match Preview
The Daggers will travel to Plainmoor for a season opener that could set the tone for the rest of the campaign. With Ball’s recent success and a squad bolstered by experienced signings, Torquay United will look to extend their winning run and secure a strong start to the 26/27 season.
The Daggers, meanwhile, will aim to break their winless streak and prove they can compete at the top of the National League South. The match promises to be a key early test for both sides as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
