17/5/09

Torquay United ended their two year exile in the Blue Square Premier this afternoon with a Play Off Final win over Cambridge United.

Cambridge faced play-off final heartache last season following a defeat by Exeter, and Gary Brabin's side looked to have learnt their lesson as they started the game in fine form.

This season's Conference runners-up were well-supported by their travelling fans who far outnumbered their Devon counterparts and a goal seemed imminent as they dominated much of the first half.

However somewhat against the run of play, Torquay took the lead in the 35th minute when captain Chris Robertson burst through and scored with a shot from the edge of the area.

Cambridge started the second half well but Torquay worked hard to stifle the U's attack and Cambridge's afternoon took a turn for the worst when Phillip Bolland was sent off for a second yellow card.

Torquay soon took advantage and Tim Sills's powerful header with 15 minutes left ensured that the Gulls will be flying into the Football League once again.

photos by James Boyes