Torquay United manager Paul Cox was not happy with what he saw from his players, even though their preparations for the new season continued with a 1-0 win at National League South side Truro City.

A crowd of 497 turned out in support of the White Tigers’ long-serving defender Jake Ash, but while it was very much a Truro first team that started the game, the second half saw their FA Vase winning team of 2007 converge and play the second 45 minutes at Treyew Road.

Cox felt that, while he was delighted with the level of support shown for Ash and applauded those in attendance, he did not get what he wanted from the game in terms of preparation for the new campaign.

“We didn’t turn up until late because of the horrendous traffic and I think that showed with how we went about things in the first half,” Cox said.

“We could have done a hell of a lot better in the first half, the kick-off was delayed by half an hour and I think it showed in some of our play. We looked like we were still warming up out there.

“Truro then switched to the 2007 FA Vase side at half-time and it was a game where we huffed and puffed for a lot of it, but we didn’t get much out of the game if I am being totally honest with you.

“In these type of Testimonial games, you don’t get the fitness or the mental fitness that I want for my players, which is why I want another game before August 8.

“At this stage of pre-season, I want players playing a full 90 minutes and we could have done with playing 11 v 11. But I don’t want to downplay the game because it was great for Jake Ash and there was a great turnout for him.”

Torquay started the game with Fabien Speiss in goal once again as he looks to earn a permanent deal at the Launa Windows Stadium, while fellow trialists Sam Topliss, Jide Maoke and Jamie Richards were also in the starting XI.

Former Bristol City and Bristol Rovers youngster Pierce Mitchell was named on the bench, but a sluggish first half from the Gulls meant the opening 45 minutes were even.

The only goal of an entertaining game came midway through the second period when Torquay substitute Sam Chaney found the far corner of Tom McHale’s net with a delightful curling shot from the left.

City skipper Ash, who has had ten great years with the club, had a golden chance to level the scores 15 minutes from time when Barry Hayles was brought down by goalkeeper Dan Lavercombe.

But the youngster redeemed himself by diving to his left to keep out Ash’s spot kick, much to the disappointment of the lion’s share of the crowd.

Ash though was delighted and also emotional with how the day had gone as he was replaced on 89 minutes to a standing ovation.

He said: “It was more than I ever imagined to be,” he said. “It was amazing.

“Thanks to everyone who has helped and the supporters who have always been fantastic for me.

“It was great to see so many of the players who had come down and I am very grateful.”