Fans succumb to heat as Torquay United tackle Plymouth Argyle

Torquay United 0 Plymouth Argyle 2

Scorching summer temperatures left their mark on Torquay United’s friendly match at home to Plymouth Argyle.

The Championship team beat their National League South hosts 2-0, but the match will be remembered more for the repeated stoppages as first-aiders and stewards dealt with people overcome by the heat in a sell-out Plainmoor crowd.

Four times the game was halted while spectators were helped from the close-packed Popular Side terraces, two on stretchers.

United released a statement later which confirmed that none of the four people needed hospital treatment.

It read: “We are pleased to have received the news that all four supporters who experienced medical episodes within the stadium during the course of the game have now recovered, and did not require hospital treatment. We would like to take this opportunity to praise the medical staff who attended to them so swiftly.

“In addition to thanking our fans for their assistance and patience whilst their fellow supporters received treatment, we would like to remind all visitors of the importance of remaining hydrated, particularly during the hot weather.”

The official attendance has not yet been announced, but at least 6,000 people packed into the ground, Gulls fans for the first chance to see their team in action at home since being saved from the brink of administration.

For Argyle fans it was an opportunity to see their new signings and welcome their new manager, former Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney.

The two sides tested each other out in the first half, with Torquay going close through Brad Ash before Dan Hayfield just failed to connect with a cross from the right.

At the other end home defender Sam Dreyer did well to block an effort by Ryan Hardie.

The goals came after the break, with Hardie scoring from the penalty spot after Ash had fouled Will Jenkins Davies.

Argyle’s second came from Bali Mumba, who curled in the rebound after Torquay keeper James Hamon had saved well from Callum Wright.

Torquay created chances for a goal of their own, but could not find a way through. New signing Cody Cooke led the line after the break, and looked the Gulls’ most likely source of a goal. For the visitors Morgan Whittaker headed just wide, and showed some classy touches with the ball at his feet.

Torquay’s friendlies continue on Tuesday night when they entertain Exeter City.