Plymouth ARGYLE vs Chesterfield - Match Report

In a game which saw Argyle dominating for large parts of the encounter, Carl Fletchers men dropped to 20^th place in Npower League 2 after Chesterfields Marc Richards scored the only goal at Home Park in the 66^th minute.   

Argyle manager had made one change to the side that had lost 1-0 at Bradford on the Tuesday.  Mark Molesley signed on loan from AFC Bournemouth on Thursday evening, as an emergency loan signing, made his Argyle debut in central midfield alongside Captain Conor Hourihane.  The player to make way was former Chesterfield midfielder Jamie Lowry.  The Cornish born player spent nine seasons at the Proact Stadium in Derbyshire.  However for Chesterfield, they were unchanged from their 4-1 win against Cheltenham.  There was also one well known player on the Chesterfields substitute bench.  This player is Portuguese international midfielder Luis Boa Morte.  A premier league winner, a championships winner and a 2006 world cup player signed for the Derbyshire club initially until the end of January.    

Argyle emerged from the tunnel with a new look captain leading the team out onto the Home Park pitch.  Midfielder Conor Hourihane was awarded the captains armband for the second game running. The first time the Irish born player was captain was during the 5day tour of Yorkshire in the second game against Bradford.  The first half was underway with the Pilgrims shooting towards the Devonport End.  It didn’t take long before Argyle were passing the football around keeping the possession extremely well.  Not long after first half had got underway Argyle had their first shot of many goal attempts.  Paris Cowan-Hall and Andres Gurrieri had very good games playing left and right wing prompted Tommy Lee into two fine saves.  Alex MacDonald played his heart out again in an Argyle shirt.  The on loan Burnley forward was exceptionally close to putting a smile back on faces around Home Park after a low cross from Cowan-Hall, the ball eventually went out for Argyles 1^st corner of many to come in the first half, after some desperate defending from Chesterfield.  With chesterfield in fine form in recent weeks, Argyle were expecting a tough encounter at Home Park.  Brennan Dickenson was very close to giving the visiting team the lead when he turned his man Curtis Nelson, in the penalty box, he lost part of his balance and shot wide in front of their fans situated high up in the Barn Park End sheltering from the horrendous weather.  The men in green were forceful when passing comfortably around the penalty box.  From this pressure Argyle were presented with corner after corner.  Many of the corners taken from Alex MacDonald were vastly high and over kicked for his teammates to touch home the opening goal of the game in torrential rain in Devon.  Mark Molesley was an outstanding talent in the first half as his forceful runs through the Chesterfields midfielders.  The debutant nearly assisted a goal when he supplied a perfect ball into the box.  Winger Paris Cowan-Hall nodded it towards Nick Chadwick. It was a free header for Chadwick as the fans waited patiently to watch as the ball drifted wide of the near post.   The referee blew for half time after an additional 1minute of added time.  The scores stand at 0-0, but Argyle should be ahead after some great chances. 

During the first half Chesterfield were struggling to get into the game.  Their manager Paul Cook made a reinforced change that would change the whole aspect of the next 45minutes to come. Former premier league player Louis Boa Morte was a half time substitute for Brennan Dickenson.  From this substitution Chesterfield were a different team, Argyle were struggling to start the way they were playing in the first half.  Soon after Argyle found there feet again with both Paris Cowan-Hall and Andres Gurrieri delivering extraordinary crosses into the penalty box.  Alex MacDonald was again running at the defenders, after good work from Durrell Berry, he then unleashed a shoot that went over the bar.  Berry the deliver for Macca’s shot was then beaten by Boa Morte who shot goal bounds; Gilmartin was at full length to stop the shot.  Chesterfield were going for all three point when they made their second substitution of the afternoon. Their longest serving player since 2007, striker Jack Chester was about to come on for Danny Whitaker. Minutes after his introduction to the game he was involved in the only goal of the game.  Boa Morte was the provided for the goal with a cross, Jack Lester knocked it down towards Richards’s who’s shot powered into the back of the net in the 66^th minute. Plymouth Argyle had an instant response with MacDonald shooting from long range.  His effort was narrowly passed the post.  Captain Conor Hourihane then headed over the cross bar.  Manager Carl Fletcher went for a triple substitution bringing on Rhys Griffiths, who returned from injury, Guy Madjo and former Bristol City winger Joe Lennox.  The substitutes replaced Paris Cowan-Hall. Nick Chadwick and Andres Gurrieri.  Argyle were eager for an equalizer and so they attacked repeatedly with Rhys Griffiths receiving the ball to hold it up.  Joe Lennox asked all sorts of problems down the wings, and when his cross was blocked inside the penalty box by the outstretched arms of Smith, penalty appeals were asked by the players, but the referee, linesman and forth official weren’t having any of it. So it finished 1-0 to Chesterfield. 

 

A brilliant performance from Plymouth Argyle who deserved much more than what they got.                  

                  

Argyle (4-5-1): 20 Rene Gilmartin; 2 Durrell Berry, 17 Curtis Nelson, 4 Maxime Blanchard, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 7 Paris Cowan-Hall (18 Guy Madjo 75), 30 Mark Molesley, 32 Alex MacDonald, 6 Conor Hourihane (capt), 27 Andres Gurrierri (19 Joe Lennox 75); 9 Nick Chadwick (10 Rhys Griffiths 73). Substitutes (not used): 1 Jake Cole (gk), 16 Jamie Lowry, 23 Jamie Richards, 29 Tyler Harvey.

Booked: Molesley 61.

Chesterfield (4-4-2): 1 Tommy Lee; 25 Drew Talbot, 6 Sam Hird (capt), 31 Liam Cooper, 3 Nathan Smith; 17 Chris Atkinson, 8 Sam Togwell, 12 Tendayi Darikwa, 10 Danny Whitaker (14 Jack Lester 61); 38 Brennan Dickenson (37 Luis Boa Morte h-t), 9 Marc Richards (15 Craig Clay 82). Substitutes (not used): 4 Terrell Forbes, 13 Richard O'Donnell (gk), 33 Conor Townsend, 34 Jay O'Shea.

Booked: Whitaker 52, Hird 71, Lester 90.

Referee: Phil Gibbs.

Attendance: 5,711 (261 away).

Plymouth Argyle vs Chesterfield - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle’s Jamie Lowry will come up against his former teammates on Saturday, when Argyle face table topping Chesterfield at Home Park.

After returning back to Plymouth in the early hours of Wednesday morning the Pilgrims find themselves in a relegation battle sitting in 19^th position in league two.  Carl Fletchers team are without a win in seven league and cup games, the last victory coming on the 20^th October against Rochdale.  In this situation Argyle have only picked up 1point out of a possible 18.  The point came against league leaders Gillingham at Home Park, in there 2 all draw.   As for Saturdays oppositions team, Chesterfield they are unbeaten in two league games with victories over Oxford and Cheltenham.

The visitors to Home Park on Saturday Chesterfield will not hesitate to look back at their last result at Home Park in January 2004, a 7-0 defeat for the Spireites.  The Johnstone Paint Trophy Wembley winners were relegated to Npower league 2 after finishing in 22^nd place in League 1.  On the 28^th April 2012 it was confirmed that Chesterfield had been transferred to league two after a 3-2 defeat to Yeovil Town, there first season in league one came to an end.  During the first few weeks of the new 2012-13 season the club had confirmed that John Sheridan had been sacked after picking up only 2points in the opening three games.  On the 25^th October former Wigan, Norwich and Burnley midfielder Paul Cook was appointed the Spireites manager, signing a two-and-a-half year deal with the Derbyshire based club.  

Many Argyle fans were surely very surprised to hear who had been given the captains armband as Darren Purse was unavailable through him being suspended as he was sent off for violent conduct in the 3-0 loss at Fleetwood on Saturday.  Most fans would have expected French defender Maxime Blanchard to take the captains armband, but Fletcher had other ideas.  He had given Conor Hourihane the opportunity to lead the team out on his 54^th appearance for the Pilgrims. Who will it be on Saturday?   

Plymouth Argyle will be without Scott Griffiths for the visit of Chesterfield on Saturday. The Peterborough loanee has returned to his parent club after the former Dagenham & Redbridge players loan expired after Tuesdays defeat to Bradford.  Fletcher brought the left sided defender to Devon on loan after the former Argyle midfielder learnt the full extent of Yorkshire born Robbie Williams stomach muscle injury.  Ever present central midfielder Luke Young will be doubtful for Saturday’s game due to the player missing Tuesday game in Yorkshire due to injury.  Another player that will face a race against time to be fit is Rhys Griffiths.  The former Welsh footballer had missed the 5day tour of the north of the country due to a hamstring strain that he picked up in the Gillingham encounter. Maxime Blanchard will be determined to keep hold of his place in the starting 11.  He had been kept out of the side after Nelson fine former, but returned to the side replacing Purse due to him being suspended for three games.  Manager Carl Fletcher will also have a selection headache while choosing his strikers.  Tyler Harvey a second year apprentice at Argyle made his league debut at Bradford on Tuesday evening made a very good account of himself after coming on as a second half substitution.  The deadline to make any emergency loan signings was on Thursday at 5pm. Carl Fletcher was able to sign Mark Molesley from Bournemouth on a 28day loan deal. The 31year old will be eligible to participate in next month’s Johnstones Paint Trophy tie against Oxford.  The player that wear the number 30 shirt will remain at Argyle up to and will include the trip to Arrington Stanley on December 22^nd.  The loanee will be eger to make his Argyle debut at Home Park this afternoon when the Pilgrims take on Chesterfield a 3pm kick-off. 

Available:- Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Durrell Berry, Curtis Nelson, Jamie Richards, Maxime Blanchard, Onismor Bhasera, Alex MacDonald, Paris Cowan-Hall, Andres Gurrieri, Joe Lennox, Conor Hourihane, Jamie Lowry, Mark Molesley, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt Lecointe, Guy Madjo. 

Unavailable: - Darren Purse (suspended), Rhys Griffiths (hamstring injury), Paul Wotton (back injury), Robbie Williams (stomach muscle injury), Ollie Chenoweth (on loan to Frome Town), Jed Harper Penman and Isaac Vassell (both players on loan to Bideford Town), Luke Young (shoulder injury), Scott Griffiths (loan expired). 

Bradford City vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle will face a tough test on Tuesday Evening when they will challenge promotion contenders Bradford City at Valley Parade.  From Saturdays disappointing 3-nil defeat at Highbury to the most experience team in League Two Fleetwood Town, the Plymouth Argyle players and management staff are staying in the north of the country to reduce the amount of travelling.  If Carl Fletcher had opted for the team to travel to the games individually the squad would have covered 1500 miles whilst spending 28hours on the road exploiting the countryside. 

With the players situated in West Yorkshire for a couple of days, Carl Fletcher has organised for his squad of players to train at Football Conference North club Guiseley on Monday, for their preparation to Valley Parade on a winters Tuesday Evening.

In comparison with Saturdays results in Npower League Two, Plymouth Argyle and Tuesdays opponents Bradford City were both on the losing side.  Bradford City went down 1-nil to Devon Rivals Exeter City, at Valley Parade, with the only goal coming from Jamie Cureton, whilst the Pilgrims had a very baffled afternoon losing 3-nill at the Highbury Stadium.  The disappointing afternoon didn’t stop there.  Captain Darren Purse the former Millwall defender was sent off with a straight red card for violent conduct. The central defender had only been booked minutes earlier for an elbow.  The red card that Purse has received will mean that he will miss the next three games with suspension.  The games that he will miss will be Bradford City and Chesterfield in the league and Oxford in the Johnstone Paint Trophy in the Area Quarter Final taking place at Home Park.

Carl Fletcher will be forced into making one reinforced change to the squad with Darren Purse absent through suspension.  Maxime Blanchard will be the favourite to partner Curtis Nelson in defence with the French man also the preferred player to captain the side.  Rene Gilmartin will also be competing with Argyles number 1 Jake Cole.  The Irish man has played the last two league games for Argyle with him only making he’s Npower League Two debut at home to Gillingham.  Rhys Griffiths will have no part to play in the Bradford encounter due to the Welshman being injured.  He has stayed in Devon whilst the rest of his teammates are travelling around the North West. 

Argyle will also come up against one former Pilgrim and teammate in Will Atkinson on Tuesday Evening at Valley Parade.  The former Argyle player was on loan to the Devon Club from his then parent club Hull City.  The Yorkshire born midfielder made 25 appearances in all competitions scoring 4 goals, for the Pilgrims, with the first one coming on his Argyle debut in September, in the 4-1 defeat to Rotherham at Home Park.  Atkinson signed for Bradford City at the beginning of the 2012-13 season after he spent the last part of last season on loan to the Bantams.      

Available:- Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Durrell Berry, Curtis Nelson, Jamie Richards, Maxime Blanchard, Onismor Bhasera, Scott Griffiths, Alex MacDonald, Paris Cowan-Hall, Andres Gurrieri, Joe Lennox, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Jamie Lowry, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt Lecointe, Guy Madjo. 

Unavailable: - Darren Purse (suspended), Rhys Griffiths (injured), Paul Wotton (back injury), Robbie Williams (stomach muscle injury), Ollie Chenoweth (on loan to Frome Town), Jed Harper Penman and Isaac Vassell (both players on loan to Bideford Town).    

Fleetwood Town vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle will make their first trip to Highbury Stadium this afternoon when they take on 2011/12 Conference National Champions Fleetwood Town.   This encounter will be the first competitive meeting between the two clubs.  This game will also be the first of two away games for Argyle as they will travel to Bradford on Tuesday Evening. 

Manager Carl Fletcher will come across his former central midfield partner Damien Johnson this afternoon when Argyle line up against the most experienced team in League Two, Fleetwood Town.  With the team already in fifth place, Fleetwood are already one of the favourites to cliché promotion in as many years. Damien Johnson the former Argyle player signed for the Lancashire club as a free agent after the player’s contract ended in the summer of 2012.  After joining the Devon club in January 2010 the former Northern Ireland International went onto make 20 starts for Argyle partnering Fletcher in the heart of midfield.  The season Plymouth Argyle was relegated to League One Johnson wages was too expensive, so the former Birmingham City player spent the next two seasons on loan to Huddersfield Town.  Another experienced player Fleetwood have signed is former Rangers player Barry Ferguson.  Ferguson is on-loan to Fleetwood from neighbours Blackpool until January 2013. 

Rene Gilmartin is certain to retain his place in goal after the Irish born player made his debut against Argyles two all draw against Gillingham last Saturday at Home Park.  Curtis Nelson is another player set to keep he’s place in central defence alongside Darren Purse.  Carl Fletcher will also be looking to recall on loan midfielder Alex MacDonald.  The 22 year old missed last weekend’s game due to personal reasons. 

Safe Travels.  Enjoy the game

Available: Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Maxime Blanchard, Darren Purse, Curtis Nelson, Jamie Richards, Durrell Berry, Onismor Bhasera, Scott Griffiths, Paris Cowan-Hall, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Jamie Lowry, Joe Lennox, Jerad Sims, Jordan Copp, Alex MacDonald, Andres Gurrieri, Matt Lecointe, Guy Madjo, Warren Feeney, Rhys Griffiths, Nick Chadwick,

Doubtful: Robbie Williams (Stomach muscle injury)

Unavailable: Paul Wotton (Back injury), Ollie Chenoweth (on loan to Frome Town), Jed Harper-Penman, Isaac Vassell (both players on-loan to Bideford Town).

Plymouth Argyle vs Gillingham - Match Report

 Plymouth Argyle 2 

Curtis Nelson 33

Luke Young 79

 

Gillingham 2

Ben Strevens 38

Adam Barrett 89

 

Plymouth Argyle were on their way to all three points until former Pilgrim Adam Barrett headed in an 89^th minute equalizer for Gillingham, after Luke Young had given Argyle the lead for their 2^nd goal in the 79^th minute.     

Carl Fletcher had opted for five changes to his squad from there midweek game at home to Burton Albion.  Fletcher had selected Rene Gilmartin in front of ever present Jake Cole, to make his league debut for Argyle, Darren Purse made his way back in to the squad to captain the side, with Maxime Blanchard still struggling with injury, he was dropped to the bench.  Other players who made their way back into the side were Conor Hourihane, who missed the last game due to suspension, Paris Cowan-Hall and Rhys Griffiths.  The players to make way were Joe Lennox, Alex MacDonald and Andres Gurrieri.  Nick Chadwick was also on the bench this afternoon after Carl Fletcher had not selected the player in the strong eighteen man squad in previous games. There was also one well known player returning to Home Park this afternoon when Gillingham were in town.  Former Pilgrim Adam Barrett who spent 18months in Plymouth from 1999-2000 is the current captain of the Gills.

Both teams emerged from the entrance led by their captains to respect the minute’s silence for Remembrance Sunday which takes place tomorrow.  Argyle started the first half very well, passing the football around the field of play full of confidence, with the team attacking towards the Devonport End.  It was the visitors to make the first opportunity of the match when Chris Whelpdale’s headed Tom Flanagan’s free kick goal bounds.  Rene Gilmartin had his goal well covered to palm way the shot for the corner.  It wasn’t long after that opportunity from Gillingham that Argyle had created their own chance to score.  Jamie Lowry thundered a 30yarder goal bound for only Stuart Nelson to parry it back into the six yard box.  Strikers Warren Feeney and Rhys Griffiths were both alert but it was former firefighter Griffiths to shoot goal bounds.  Nelson made a terrific diving save to deny the Welsh man.  Most of the Devonport were on their feet only to be seated again.  It was again Plymouth Argyle to threaten at goal when Durrell Berry dripped and released a 35yarder, Griffiths again the target man headed the ball towards the back of the net, goalkeeper Stuart Nelson was equal to it to hold the swirling ball in his arms.  Argyle who were vitally the better team in the first half finally went ahead in the 33^rd minutes from a goal from Curtis Nelson.  Jamie Lowry had delivered in a stunner of a corner which deflected of Warren Feeney, for only Curtis Nelson to strike home at the near post for his second goal of the season.  Sadly for the Pilgrims the goal lead only lasted 5minutes after Ben Strevens had reacted first to Chris Whelpdales miss hit shot.  Gillingham were back in the game.  From that Gills goal Argyle were very nervy with the ball especially in defence and in possession.  Now that’s what a top team does to you.    

Second half was upon us with Gillingham making a second half substitution.  Charlie Lee was replaced by Myles Western a pacey winger.  Carl Fletcher had decided in not making any half time substitutions to his squad.  Plymouth Argyle had started this half extremely well closing down Gillingham who had reverted to the long ball.  From the experience of our captain Purse the defenders defended solidly throughout the pressure that was to come from the opposition team.  With just 15minutes gone in the second half Fletcher and his management staff had decided in changing the game when Warren Feeney was replaced by Argentine winger Andres Gurrieri.  That change meant Cowan-Hall was to move up front playing alongside Griffiths, Luke Young was to play on the right, with Gurrieri moving into the left wing position.  Andres made an instant influence to the game with the winger creating many chances for his team mates to score the second goal.  Many crosses, passing, and blocked shots were to come with Argyle in total control of the game.  Andres Gurrieri who was coming in from the left wing, invited Onismor Bhasera to move forward in any attack.  It wasn’t long at all when Argyle had taken the lead once again from a goal from Luke Young his second of the season.  The goal comes from good work from substitute Nick Chadwick who flicked on the ball to the Plymouth born player. The young midfielder did well to keep his call and shot into an empty net.  Off went youngy to go and celebrate the goal with his fellow team mates.  Was that going to be the winning goal?  Argyle were after another and Onismor Bhasera was nearly to it.  Countless work with one to one passing from Onismor Bhasera and Andres Gurrieri on the left wing presented Baz with the option to shoot and so he did.  But from a deflection the shot was glanced out for a goal kick.  A disappointing decision from the officials to award Gillingham the goal-kick. Argyle had finally conceded an equalizer in the last few minutes of the game.  A Jack Payne cross which was headed across goal from Myler Western fell to former Pilgrim Adam Barrett to head home from close range.  Argyle hearts were broken.  It could have even got worse for Argyle in additional time when Gillingham had a shot cleared of the line. 

The referee had blown the full time whistle; Argyle had drawn to league 2 leaders Gillingham at Home Park.  The fans should be every proud of that display from Argyle who were much the better side.  What a great result for everyone involved in Plymouth Argyle. 

GREEN ARMY!!        

Argyle (4-4-2): 20 Rene Gilmartin; 2 Durrell Berry, 5 Darren Purse (capt), 17 Curtis Nelson, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 7 Paris Cowan-Hall, 16 Jamie Lowry, 6 Conor Hourihane, 8 Luke Young; 11 Warren Feeney (27 Andres Gurrieri 60), 10 Rhys Griffiths (9 Nick Chadwick 68). Substitutes (not used): 1 Jake Cole (gk), 4 Maxime Blanchard, 18 Guy Madjo, 19 Joe Lennox, 33 Scott Griffiths.

Booked: Feeney 31

Gillingham (4-4-2): 1 Stuart Nelson; 2 Matt Fish, 6 Tom Flanagan, 26 Adam Barrett (capt), 11 Danny Jackman; 7 Chris Whelpdale (9 Danny Kedwell 69), 4 Jack Payne, 30 Romain Vincelot, 8 Charlie Lee (24 Myles Weston h-t); 20 Deon Burton (17 Adam Birchall 86), 10 Ben Strevens. Substitutes (not used): 12 Andrew Frampton, 15 Callum Davies, 16 Lewis Montrose, 21 Tommy Forecast (gk).

Referee: Andy D'Urso.

Attendance: 6,396 (377 away)

Plymouth Argyle vs Gillingham - Match Preview

Carl Fletchers Plymouth Argyle will entertain high flying Gillingham at Home Park this afternoon.  After Wednesdays disappointing result which saw the Pilgrims dominate the game, this fixture will be crucial for the three vital points at Home Park. 

Gillingham who are five points clear at the top of League two will be full of confidence coming to Home Park with the best away record in the diversion.  Since Martin Allen’s appointment in the summer of 2012 he has brought in some fantastic players including his son Charlie Allen.  With this, the results have gone there way and are proudly sitting on the throne with credit. 

With Remembrance Sunday only around the corner, players, staff and fans from both teams will be asked to respect the fallen with a minute’s silence.  During the warm-up and up to kick off members from the Devonport Royal Navel Volunteers Band will be playing.  The band will also welcome both teams onto the field of play with their version of Semper Fidelis. With this tribute taking place members of the green army situated in Block 3 will be taking part, in holding up a display, which will picture a giant poppy to remember the loved ones that have fallen representing their Country. 

Darren Purse will be in contention for this fixture after the captain has missed the last three games due to an on-going toe injury. Whilst his centre back partner Maxime Blanchard will have to undergo a late fitness test after the defender was involved in a heavy tackle on Wednesday evening against Burton Albion.  Argyle will also welcome back Irish born midfielder Conor Hourihane after he was sent off at Dorchester for picking up two yellow cards. Carl Fletcher may also look, to change the formation of the team.  The manager may decide to bring back on-loan defender Scott Griffiths after he missed Wednesday’s fixture.  The reason for that change was to give Griffiths a rest.  Since arriving from Peterborough the defender had started all six games.  If this was to happen that would enable Onismor Bhasera to play freely in midfield.   

Enjoy the game!! GREEN ARMY

 

Available: Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Durrell Berry, Curtis Nelson, Jamie Richards, Darren Purse (capt), Scott Griffiths, Onismor Bhasera, Jamie Lowry, Luke Young, Conor Hourihane, Andres Gurrieri, Paris Cowan-Hall, Joe Lennox, Alex MacDonald, Guy Madjo, Warren Feeney, Rhys Griffiths, Nick Chadwick, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Matt Lecointe, Tyler Harvey.

Doubtful: Maxime Blanchard (knee injury)

Unavailable: Robbie Williams (stomach muscle injury), Ollie Chenoweth (on-loan to Frome Town), Paul Wotton (back injury), Jed Harper-Penman and Isaac Vassell (both players on loan to Bideford Town). 

Plymouth Argyle vs Burton Albion - Match Report

Argyle 1

 

Paris Cowan-Hall 49

 

Burton Albion 2

 

Nathan Stanton 74

Robbie Weir 79

 

Plymouth Argyle’s winless run continued as the Brewers recorded a 2-1 victory over the Pilgrims as they came from behind to win the game after Paris Cowan-Hall opened the scoring.  

Carl Fletcher had made five changes from Sunday’s unacceptable result in the FA Cup away to Conference South side, Dorchester Town. The young manager also chose to go back to the 4-4-2 formation.  The manager recalled Jake Cole, Luke Young, Alex MacDonald, Warren Feeney and Guy Madjo.  Whilst Rene Gilmartin, Joe Lennox, Scott Griffiths and Rhys Griffiths dropped to the bench.  One noticeable player absent from the squad was midfielder Conor Hourihane.  The Irish born player  was serving a one match suspension after he was sent off after picking up two yellow cards inside 10minutes in Dorchester.  Whilst for Burton Albion they had made two changes to their squad after securing an injury time equalizer in there FA Cup tie against Altrincham.  Forward Billy Kee was dropped to the bench in favor of Cleveland Taylor, whilst Jack Dyer replaced on-loan midfielder Jordan Chappell.  The manager had gone for a 4-5-1 looking formation.  There was also one familiar face returning to Home Park when Burton Albion travelled to Plymouth.  Left Back Damien McCrory grew up as a boy in Plymouth after progressing through the youth team back in 2008.  The Irish player then spent most of his Argyle career on loan to various clubs including Port Vale.  The Brewers left back then decided to move to London club Dagenham & Redbridge.

The game started very quietly, with both team trying to earn the right to play.  On a winters Wednesday evening the Argyle players were looking to keep warm with their executed passing.  Central midfielder Luke Young proved to be a threat skipping past challenges and into the penalty area.  The only thing preventing him from pulling of a shot was a superb tackle. Right back Durrell Berry was causing all sorts of problems to the Burton defence with the player making many runs into his own half.  After Alex MacDonald was fouled by an un timing tackle he was always struggling with injury.  Carl Fletcher did the right thing and brought the young on-loan Burnley winger off, with Paris Cowan-Hall replacing him.  After the game, fans learnt the real reason for Fletchers tactical substitution.  Alex MacDonald had lost a family member on the morning of the game.  Cowan-Hall was brought on as MacDonald wasn’t in the right frame of mind to continue playing.  An understandable change from the manager.   It wasn’t until the half hour mark when Argyle had their first shot at goal. The Pilgrims had their first corner of the game with Jamie Lowry delivering a beauty of an in swinging cross, as it was cleared to the edge of the box Onismor Bhasera playing at left back struck the ball ever so sweetly with his right foot.   The goalkeeper Mark Oxley was nowhere to be seen but unluckily the football just went inches wide of the left hand post stopping the versatile player from celebrating his first goal of the season.  The second chance on goal was in Argyle favor as they were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty box.  Jamie Lowry the Newquay born delivered his inch prefect free kick once again with Centre back Curtis Nelson rising the highest out of the players.  He was to see his effort palmed away by Mark Oxley.  Most of the ground rose in delight to celebrate the opening goal but were left stranded in the air when they realized the Burton Albion goalkeeper was stepping up to take a goal kick. 

It didn’t take Argyle long at all to get the lead in the game from a superbly taken goal from Paris Cowan-Hall in the 49minute.  Hard worker Warren Feeney controlled the ball beautifully midway inside the Burton half.  He then used all of his experience to pick out substituted Cowan Hall with the outside of his foot.  The tricky winger then moved into the penalty area to slide the ball home into the goalkeeper near post.  That sent the green army wild.  We had something to shout about.  From that Cowan-Hall goal Argyle were in total control of the game, keeping possession and playing some pretty football to go with it.  Minutes later Captain Maxime Blanchard had nearly doubled the score line.  Jamie Lowry delivered another outstanding corner with Blanchard rising the highest to only see his header cleared of the goal-line by a defender.  Both players Cowan-Hall and Durrell Berry were causing all sorts of problems down the right wing with Paris inviting them to foul him.  That resulted in players being booked.  Former Pilgrim Damien McCrory was the first of the two players to go into the referee’s notebook.  The second was Nathan Stanton who was booked for a challenge on Cowan-Hall.  The Pilgrims continued to pressure the Burton defence with former Brewer Andres Gurrieri unlashing a 25yarder.  Mark Oxley was equal to the swirly ball to palm it away from the goal. With 74minutes on the clock Argyle were still looking every comfortable but were sadly undone by a quick corner from the run of play.  This goal came from Nathan Stanton who was first to the loose ball after Jake Cole had failed to keep hold of Zander Diamonds header. In quick concession Burton had taken the lead and was looking to go back to Staffordshire with all three points.  Chris Palmer had delivered an inviting cross into the penalty box, Jake Cole could not hold onto the cross, he punched the ball away for only Robbie Weir to head home the winner in Wednesdays night fixture.  The players were fighting and pushing for another goal to equalize. 

It wasn’t to be Argyle had fallen to their forth defeat in a row. 

Burton were going home with all the three points from a game that Argyle dominated.     

Argyle (4-4-2): 1 Jake Cole; 2 Durrell Berry, 17 Curtis Nelson, 4 Maxime Blanchard (capt), 14 Onismor Bhasera; 32 Alex MacDonald (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 28), 8 Luke Young, 16 Jamie Lowry (19 Joe Lennox 87), 27 Andres Gurrieri; 18 Guy Madjo (10 Rhys Griffiths 82), 11 Warren Feeney. Substitutes (not used): 20 Rene Gilmartin (gk), 23 Jamie Richards, 29 Tyler Harvey, 33 Scott Griffiths.

Burton Albion (4-5-1): 30 Mark Oxley; 20 Anthony O’Connor, 5 Zander Diamond (capt), 4 Nathan Stanton, 14 Damien McCrory; 7 Cleveland Taylor (29 Billy Kee 56), 8 Robbie Weir, 22 Jack Dyer, 23 Lee Bell, 19 Jacques Maghoma (11 Chris Palmer 61); 10 Calvin Zola. Substitutes (not used): 9 Justin Richards, 15 Matt Palmer, 16 Dean Lyness (gk), 18 Matt Paterson, 21 Marcus Holness.

Booked: Taylor 31, McCrory 53, Stanton 59

Attendance: 5,219 (33 away)

Referee: Mick Russell

Plymouth Argyle vs Burton Albion - Match Preview

From Sundays shock defeat to Dorchester Town in the FA Cup first round encounter, Plymouth Argyle welcome table topping Burton Albion to Home Park for Wednesday evening’s fixture. The Npower league two game has been put back 24hours, as both teams were competing on Sunday to earn the right to progress into the second round of the FA Cup.   

From last season’s fantastic 2-1 victory over Burton Albion a lot of changes have been made to the team.  Captain at the time and goal scorer for that afternoon Simon Walton has moved on, to start a new career with Hartlepool.   A move he took to be closer to his family in Leeds, Yorkshire.  Andres Gurrieri is another, the Argentinian moved to Plymouth Argyle as a free agent after he was released by the Brewers at the end of the last season.  The player who had a trial with the Pilgrims at the start of last season was unable to agree a deal to join the club, due to the financial trouble that surrounded Home Park at the time.  He then signed a short term contact at Burton Albion.  There has also been a change of manager for the Staffordshire club after Paul Peschisolido was sacked in March 2012. The current manager of Burton Albion is former Birmingham, Leicester and Charlton defender Gary Rowett. 

After Conor Hourihane was sent off during the early stages of the FA Cup game against Dorchester, he will unavailable for the game. Unfortunately manager Carl Fletcher was unable to appeal against the red card as the midfielder had picked up two yellow cards instead of a straight red.  Midfielder Jamie Lowry will be raring for tomorrow’s game after Carl Fletcher has announced that his starting place is safe in the team.  Curtis Nelson will be looking to keep his spot in central defence after Darren Purse is very doubtful for the game due to an on-going toe problem.  If this is the case Maxime Blanchard will be leading the team out as step in captain. Another change to the side might include Alex MacDonald.  The loanee was absent on Sunday for the FA Cup due to him being cup-tied. 

Enjoy the game!!! GREEN ARMY!!!

Available: Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Durrell Berry, Jamie Richards, Maxime Blanchard, Curtis Nelson, Scott Griffiths, Onismor Bhasera, Luke Young, Jamie Lowry, Joe Lennox, Alex MacDonald, Jared Sims, Jordan Copp, Rhys Griffiths, Nick Chadwick, Andres Gurrieri, Paris Cowan-Hall, Warren Feeney, Guy Madjo, Matt Lecointe, Tyler Harvey.

Doubtful: Darren Purse (toe injury)

Unavailable: Ollie Chenoweth (on loan to Frome Town), Robbie Williams (stomach muscle injury), Paul Wotton (back injury), Conor Hourihane (suspended), Isaac Vassell, Jed Harper-Penman (both players on loan to Bideford Town).

Dorchester Town vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Report

 

Dorchester Town 1

Jake Gosling 48

Plymouth Argyle 0

 

 

 

History had repeated itself once again in front of the ESPN cameras.  Argyle had fallen to a shock, embarrassing defeat in the first round of the FA Cup away to Dorchester Town, who play their football in the Blue Square Conference South league. Even before the teams had played each other both sets of players, management staff and fans knew the second round draw.  The winners of this encounter were away to Luton Town or Nuneaton Town.  These two teams have to play a replay.  

Carl Fletcher had enforced five changes to the squad that lost away at Rotherham in the league eight days previously. The players that came into the squad were Rene Gilmartin, Onimsor Bhasera, Conor Hourihane, Curtis Nelson and Rhys Griffiths.  The players to make way were Jake Cole, Darren Purse, Paris Cowan-Hall, Guy Madjo and Luke Young.  There was one noticeable change in the Pilgrims squad with loanee Alex MacDonald not able to play due to him being cup-tied.  The fans favorite had played for Burnley, this season, in the Capital One Cup when the Clarets took on Argyle at Turf Moor. He was replaced by pacey winger and former Bristol City player Joe Lennox. 

With the game live on ESPN, that meant the kick-off time was much later than usual.  With summer time over Argyle were starting the first half in the dark and finishing the second half in absolute darkness with only the floodlights around the ground preventing the players from not seeing a thing.  Through Captain Darren Purse’s injury it was up to Purses Centre back partner Maxime Blanchard to take over the duty of being the skipper for the evening. The Pilgrims were making an encouraging start to the game in horrible conditions of hail and rain.  With Conor Hourihane already booked inside 4minutes for a challenge on Jon Choprena-Garcia it was about to get even worse for the Irish born youngster.  It was an unfamiliar second booking when Hourihane was sent to have an early bath by the referee Lee Collins after the player had taken a free kick early.  Argyle were awarded the free kick just outside the penalty box after Joe Lennox was brought down. Unfortunately it came to nothing for the greens.  After missing last weekend’s game due to suspension after picking up 5 yellow cards, Conor Hourihane will have to miss Wednesday’s game home to Burton Albion, with manager Carl Fletcher not allowed to appeal against it, as it was not issued as a straight red card. As you would expect the game was totally changed inside a couple of minutes.  Dorchester were looking the better team with the squad passing and controlling the possession of the ball extremely well, the defenders stood tall and denied the chance of Dorchester creating changes to score the opening goal.  Eventually Argyle had their first shot on target just before the 30minute mark.  Against the run of play the ball fell to Zimbabwe international Onismor Bhasera after he was played in by Rhys Griffiths, he held his man off well and fired the shot into the side netting. Minutes later it was Dorchester’s Charlie Clough to threaten, he saw his header rebound of the post.  A lucky escape for the Pilgrims.  From 30yards from goal Jamie Lowry was to fire a vicious shot goal bound. Jason Matthews was to make his first save of the evening.   Half Time was calling after the forth official had supplied two minutes extra to be played at the end of the first half.

Both teams emerged from two separate entrances ready for the second half.  There were no reinforced changes to the teams.  After Argyle had dominated the last few minutes of the first half with standout players Joe Lennox and Durrell Berry making steamy runs into the opposing half it was a big blow when Dorchester had gone ahead. Jake Gosling on loan from Exeter City had fired the ball into the back of the net from Mark Jerymn cut back. 1-0 to Dorchester.  A well-deserved goal from the Dorchester players with the Pilgrims lacking concentration for the first few minutes of the second half.  From that early second half goal, it inspired the conference south players to get more players onto the score sheet.  Both Garcia and Nicholls had the opportunity to get the goals, but the footballs ended up in the crowd or even in the Tesco car-park right outside of the stadium.    With just over 20minutes left of the first round to go Carl Fletcher chose to change the formation of his side.  Bringing on Warren Feeney he had gone with a 4-3-2 formation.  The player to make way was Newquay born Jamie Lowry. Carl Fletcher was almost awarded with his substitution when substitute Luke Young was fouled by Charlie Clough.  Rhys Griffiths was very unlucky not to connect with the ball sweeter as he headed the ball just wide of the right hand post.  Carl Fletcher then made another tactical substitution with Paris Cowan-Hall coming on for former firefighter Rhys Griffiths.  From this change Argyle were progressing and starting to force saves from the goalkeeper.  With Argyle intent to grab a late equalizer Carl Fletcher had thrown Centre back Curtis Nelson upfront. The forth official had put up the board; four minutes added time was awarded.  Argyle were throwing everything at it.

 It wasn’t to be Dorchester are progressing to the second round of the FA Cup with an away trip to Luton or Nuneaton to look forward to. 

A day to remember for the town of Dorset.

All the best in the next round Dorchester.       

Dorchester Town (4-5-1): 1 Jason Matthews; 2 Mark Jerymn (capt), 5 Nathan Walker, 4 Charlie Clough, 3 Jake Smeeton; 10 Jon Choprena-Garcia, 8 Ashley Nicholls, 7 Jake Gosling, 6 Jamie Gleeson (15 Jamie Symes 86), 11 Neil Martin; 9 Ben Watson. Substitutes (not used): 12 Arran Pugh, 14 Nick Crittenden, 16 Sam Malsom, 17 Jamie Reid, 18 Jordan Chiedozie, GK Alan Walker-Harris.

Booked: Smeeton 28, Nicholls 34, Clough 67.

Argyle (4-5-1): 20 Rene Gilmartin; 2 Durrell Berry, 17 Curtis Nelson, 4 Maxime Blanchard (capt), 33 Scott Griffiths; 19 Joe Lennox (8 Luke Young 58), 6 Conor Hourihane, 27 Andres Gurrieri, 16 Jamie Lowry (11 Warren Feeney 67), 14 Onismor Bhasera; 10 Rhys Griffiths (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 74). Substitutes (not used): 1 Jake Cole (gk), 18 Guy Madjo, 23 Jamie Richards, 29 Tyler Harvey.

Booked: Hourihane 4, Lennox 14, Lowry 63, Blanchard 69

Sent-off: Hourihane 9.

Referee: Lee Collins.

Attendance: 3196 (1200 est. away)

Dorchester Town vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Preview

The FA Cup may only be a day old but it has already promised the fans with goals, goals, goals.  Plymouth Argyle will make the short trip to the Avenue Stadium home of Dorchester Town on Sunday for the first round of the FA Cup.  The reason being Argyle are playing on a Sunday at a later kick-off time of 16:30 is because it is being televised on ESPN.  ESPN is an American global cable television network focusing on sports related programs. 

After last season’s cup defeat to Stourbridge Argyle will be looking to comfortably secure there spot in the second round. Last season’s first round promised an entertaining game in which Bhasera saved the Pilgrims from an embarrassing exit at Home Park.  The replay was held at the War Memorial Athletic Ground live on ESPN in the West Midlands.  On that night Argyle were deservedly knocked out of the cup from the Conference South Club.  This encounter will consist of two star studded names in both teams.  Plymouth Argyles left back Robbie Williams and Dorchester Towns Jamie Gleeson; he is a David Beckham impersonator. 

Can they turn around there fortune this time?

Argyle will be familiar with the Avenue Stadium from this season Pre-season game against Yeovil.  The reason the players didn’t play at Husish Park was because the pitch home of Yeovil was not available to play on due to the bad weather the South West had in the summer of 2012.  The players of Argyle would like to forget the game after conceding 5 very poor goals. 

The Pilgrims will have to be on their toes come 16:30 as Dorchester have an excellent home record, winning 5of their last 6 games at the Avenue Stadium.  If at the end of the 90minutes the teams are drawing there will be a replay at Home Park home of Plymouth Argyle. 

Loanees Scott Griffiths and Guy Madjo are able to play in this fixture after their parent clubs, Peterborough and Aldershot gave manager Carl Fletcher permission to play the players.  Whilst fans favourite Alex MacDonald will not be available due to the player being cup-tied.   MacDonald is cup-tied due to him featuring in the Capital One Cup for Burnley when they played Argyle at Turf Moor in Lancashire.  Centre back and Captain Darren Purse is very doubtful for the game after an on-going toe injury. Purse who missed the defeat to Rotherham at the New York Stadium had an injection in his toe on Monday to release the pain for a couple of months.  Robbie Williams and Paul Wotton will still be side-lined for this first round due to injuries.  Conor Hourihane will also return to the side after being suspended last Saturday, due to him picking up 5 yellow cards.  This is an automatic one game ban. 

The draw for the second round will take place even before Argyle have even kicked a ball against Dorchester Town.  The ball number the fans will be looking out for is number 16. 

Available: Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Durrell Berry, Jamie Richards, Curtis Nelson, Maxime Blanchard, Scott Griffiths, Onismor Bhasera, Joe Lennox, Paris Cowan-Hall, Luke Young, Conor Hourihane,  Jamie Lowry, Andres Gurrieri, Warren Feeney, Nick Chadwick, Jared Sims Jordan Copp, Matt Lecointe, Rhys Griffiths, Guy Madjo, Tyler Harvey.

Doubtful: Darren Purse (toe injury).

Unavailable: Robbie Williams (stomach muscle injury), Paul Wotton (back injury), Alex MacDonald (cup-tied), Ollie Chenoweth (on loan to Frome Town), Isaac Vassell, Jed Harper-Penman (both players on loan to Bideford Town).