Plymouth Argyle vs Southend - Match Report

Plymouth Argyle 1

Alex MacDonald 50’

Southend United 1

Britt Assombalonga 55’

Carl Fletcher made two changes from last Saturdays 3-2 thrilling win over Morecambe for this afternoon’s game against Southend United at Home Park.  Midfielders Luke Young and Onismor Bhasera were both recalled with Ross Jenkins on loan from Watford ruled out after suffering a groin injury late on in Thursday’s training session.  Whilst Andres Gurrieri was made a substitute for this particular game.  Fletcher welcomed back two striker Nick Chadwick and Rhys Griffiths from injury, they both made the bench.     

Southend got the game underway with their players struggling to even get a couple of passes together.  Argyle on the other hand were straight out of the traps, winning every second ball and passing the ball with confidence to the wide men to run at the oppositions defence.  A Man-of-the-match display from midfielder Onismor Bhasera, had plenty of chances to put Argyle ahead but was unable to find the back of the net in front of the travelling fans situated in the Barn Park End.   It wasn’t until third way through the first half in which the travelling side began to feel at home and find there feet. End to end stuff from both teams.  Guy Madjo on loan from Aldershot has slotted straight into the team from day one since his arrival to Plymouth.  Himself and Feeney both strikers worked well for each other, linking up well to get some good shots on target.   With Madjo’s strength he was able to hold the ball up so his team-mates could come and join him.  His strength and presence up-front has really helped Argyle to look forward and start pushing for the top half of the table.  Onismor Bhasera then had a clear cut opportunity to put the Pilgrims in the lead after Alex MacDonald (Macca) cut in from the left wing and skipped passed former green and current Southend Captain Chris Barker, with Baz not connecting fully with the ball.  Argyle were still in total control of the game with the players playing and passing the ball with freedom, the players took their time to get through the Shrimps back four, once they did their goalkeeper Daniel Bently made some fine saves from Guy Madjo, Conor Hourihane, Onismor Bhasera and penalty hero from 7-days ago Warren Feeney.  It wasn’t until the 40minute mark when Southend had their first shot on target coming from young Britt Assombalonga who is on-loan from Championship side Watford. The forward clinched onto a header from an in swinging cross from Sean Clohessy, Jake Cole had it well covered and caught the swirling ball in both hands.  Jake Cole kicked it far and high to Guy Madjo to control it and find Conor Hourihane who shot towards goal, a very weak shot from the midfielder with the ball going inches wide of the near post. Referee Steve Rushton blew for half time.  All square at the interval.

Argyle were out onto the field of play first with first-team coach Kevin Nancekivell keeping the players well occupied whilst waiting for the visiting team.  There was one chance for Southend with former Argyle youth and apprentice player Ryan Leonard replacing David Martin. Argyle kicked off the second half in fine form with the Pilgrims now shooting towards the Devonport End.  It took around 5 minutes for the men wearing the green to take the lead.  The goal came straight after a Southend corner, a long ball to Guy Madjo who held the ball up well.  He decided to pass the ball to Alex MacDonald instead of firing it straight across the goal.  It turned out to be the correct decision by the forward, with Alex MacDonald placing the ball underneath the oncoming goalie Daniel Blently.  The Devonport went wild. Argyle lead 1-0.  As you may be aware Macca scored his first goal for Argyle last season against Southend at Home Park in last year’s game on loan from Burnley, a Lancashire Club.  For his second loan spell at Argyle his first goal came today against the same opposition, Southend United. Last season the goal came in-front of the Barn Park End whilst todays goal came in-front of the Devonport Enders.  From this moment on Argyle were cruising and looking to go on and win the game with a few more goals.  But that wasn’t going to be after Britt Assombalonga turned his man in experienced defender Darren Purse with some class skill to fire home an equalizer passed Jake Cole at his near post.  From that goal Southend United were the better side from back to front, left, right and Centre.  The Pilgrims defended well to prevent the Shrimps from scoring again.  Fletcher made some changes with chants ringing round Home Park ‘Bring on the Fireman’.  Rhys Griffiths took the place of Guy Madjo whilst young gun Paris Cowan-Hall replaced Northern Ireland international Warren Feeney. From Fletcher tactics former Argyle Manger now the Shrimps manager did that exact same, bringing on two strikers Freddie Eastwood and Barry Corr.  It was nearly a super sub after Barry Corr came very close from giving the visitors the lead.  Fortunately for Argyle Corr was unable to make any connection with the ball as Britt Assombalonga slide it across the goal and out for a throwing to the Pilgrims.  Later on in the match Barry Corr who had come on as a substitute earlier on in the second half was red carded after an off the ball incident with Darren Purse.  Referee Steven Rushton issued his seventh red card to Barry Corr.  With the man advantage Argyle did everything to grab a late winner. Fletcher brought on Nick Chadwick for the remainder of the 4minutes injury time with him replacing goal hero Alex MacDonald.  It wasn’t to be, the Pilgrims draw one a piece with the Shrimps after a very positive first half.

Argyle (4-4-2): 1 Jake Cole; 2 Durrell Berry, 5 Darren Purse (capt), 4 Maxime Blanchard, 3 Robbie Williams; 32 Alex MacDonald (9 Nick Chadwick 90), 8 Luke Young, 6 Conor Hourihane, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 18 Guy Madjo (10 Rhys Griffiths 65), 11 Warren Feeney (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 65). Substitutes (not used): 13 Ollie Chenoweth (gk), 17 Curtis Nelson, 21 Matt Lecointe, 27 Andres Gurrieri.

Booked: Berry 59.

Southend United (4-4-2): 17 Daniel Bentley; 2 Sean Clohessy, 6 Ryan Cresswell, 16 Luke Prosser, 23 Chris Barker; 14 Kevan Hurst, 19 John Spicer (10 Barry Corr 68), 8 Michael Timlin, 11 David Martin (18 Ryan Leonard half-time); 24 Eliot Benyon (7 Freddy Eastwood 63), 20 Britt Assombalonga. Substitutes (not used): 3 Anthony Straker, 5 Graham Coughlan, 30 Alex Woodyard, 31 Ted Smith (gk).

Sent off: Corr 82.

Booked: Leonard 90.

Referee: Steven Rushton.

Attendance: 6,269 (237 away).

Plymouth Argyle vs Southend - Match Preview

Paul Sturrock returns to one of his former clubs today as he takes charge of his Southend squad, who have made a great start of the Npower league 2 campaign.  Paul Sturrock known as ‘Luggy’ has managed the Pilgrims twice in his career the first stint in Plymouth coming in 2000 to 2004 and the second running from 2007 to 2009.  Wherever Sturrock has travelled former Pilgrims follow, two former Argyle players are sent to make a return to Home Park come this afternoon when they line-up against the greens; they are Chris Barker and Plymouth born midfielder Ryan Leonard.  Present Argyle Manager Carl Fletcher was signed by ‘Luggy’ around four years ago when he moved from the Croydon area to the South-West where he was playing his football for Crystal Palace. 

Fletcher has declared players Rhys Griffiths, Rene Gilmartin, Nick Chadwick and Onismor Bhasera fit as they all trained during the week. These players all sat out of the win against Morecambe at the Globe Arena, whilst Onismor Bhasera travelled with the squad but did not take any part in the game.  Paul Wotton and Jamie Lowry still remain unavailable for the game against Southend due to groin and ankle ligament injuries.

 Ross Jenkins will be looking to make his home debut after putting in an impressive away display last week with a goal coming from 25yards.

Get behind the Greens and enjoy the game.  GREEN ARMY. 

Morecambe vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Preview

After two very disappointing results at home to Port Vale and Bristol Rovers, Argyle make the long trip to Morecambe a round trip of more than 600miles.  In both of these matches that took place at Home Park Argyle would take a first half lead, but would let it slip away in the second half. With an injury hit squad at Argyle, manager Carl Fletcher has brought in midfielder Ross Jenkins 21 on loan from Watford for cover for Paul Wotton who has injured his groin. Even though Jenkins is 21 he has played nearly 100 games for his parent club Watford after making his debut aged 17.  He has struggled to get into the team after the new owners appointed Gianfranco Zola as manager, the former boss of West Ham United and the Italy U16s. 

The Pilgrims have many players doubtful for this afternoons 3pm kick-off against Morecambe at the Globe Arena Stadium.  The players include: Nick Chadwick, Paul Wotton, Rene Gilmartin and Rhys Griffiths.  One player who will not play this afternoon is Jamie Lowry.  He is still recovering from Ankle Ligament damage that he sustained in the pre-season visit to Truro City.  Whilst new loan signing Ross Jenkins could make his debut, after Carl Fletcher signed him in time for today’s visit to Morecambe.    

Safe trip to all the Argyle fans travelling toMorecambe.  GREEN ARMY

Plymouth Argyle vs Bristol Rovers - Match Report

On a winter Tuesday evening at Home Park, the theatre of greens was filling up quickly as they prepared for their game against derby contenders Bristol Rovers.  There were two changes from Saturday’s game with Paul Wotton out with a groin injury and Warren Feeney dropping to the bench.  The two players that were called upon were Guy Madjo and also Matt Lecointe.  Fletcher had gone for a 4-4-2 formation.  Jim Paterson a former Pilgrim was among the substitutes sat on the bench.    Another change from Rovers squad at Gillingham was Matt Harrold being replaced by Fabian Broghammer after he damaged his cruciate ligaments in the 4-0 defeat to Gillingham.

Argyle were straight under pressure from kick-off with Rovers coming to Home Park to grind out a result.  Jake Cole was forced into an early save after Dave Clarke stepped up and took a shot on.  It was comfortable for Cole in the goal.  With less than 5minutes gone on the clock Luke Young had his second bookable offence in two games after fouling an opposition player.   The greens had started very slowly in this game after their blistering display against Port Vale on Saturday.  For most of the first half Bristol rovers looked the better side with Argyle very hesitated towards the ball whilst they passed it on the ground.  Argyles first clear cut on goal came from Guy Madjo, who was clear of any defenders stringing off a shot which beat young goalkeeper Sam Walker and onto the crossbar with then went out for a goal kick.  From the point on Argyle were to make some more chances, with both sides going for the points.  It wasn’t until the 35^th minute when Home Park was rocking, a superb goal from young midfielder Conor Hourihane who gave the Pilgrims an unexpected lead with Rovers dominating the game. The move came about when Argyle put together some decent passing when Central midfielder slides it through to Hourihane who fired the ball into the back of the net from around 35yards out in front of the Barn Park End where the away fans were situated.  It was good to see the young midfielder score on the Home Park turf as he has been getting into good areas around the 6yard box.   Argyle defended solidly until the half time whistle to prevent the Gas from scoring and getting an equalize going into the break.   

Second half was underway with the Gas coming out and determined to get an equalizer.  In terms of being an Argyle supporter the players started slightly better than in the first half.  In the second Argyle stood a high line with the players noticing they would have to get another goal to go on and win the West Country derby between both sides. Bristol Rovers were making their first sub of the evening with Matt Lund coming of for Eliot Richards. From the high line that the Argyle players were using, they would fine that they would get caught on the break more than often.  A second substitution came from Rovers with Wayne Brown making way for Joe Anyinsah.  Carl Fletcher was to make a substitution with Paris Cowan-Hall coming on for Matt Lecointe.  In no time at all Rovers had equalized in the 70^th minute.   The goal came about with Rovers forcing aload of corners when Tom Parks found space to slot home the equalizer which gave Jake Cole no chance.     From that goal it gave the Gas a huge lift.  They were stiffing a winner.  A great block from top scorer Robbie Williams prevented Clarkson’s dangerous shot by taking the power out of the shot so the ball could roll though to number 1 goalkeeper Jake Cole. In the last 10minutes Carl Fletcher had made another subsitition with Alex MacDonald coming off for versatile player Warren Feeney.  It was a straight swap for everyone concerned with Argyle.  The swap was made for more attacking options in the last third for Argyle to try and snatch a last minute winner.  The result stayed that way until the 4minutes of added time was up.  A dissappointing night for Argyle and the green army whilst Bristol travel up the M5 with a point in the bag.   

 Argyle (4-4-2): 1 Jake Cole; 2 Durrell Berry, 5 Darren Purse (capt), 4 Maxime Blanchard, 3 Robbie Williams; 32 Alex MacDonald (11 Warren Feeney 85), 6 Conor Hourihane, 8 Luke Young, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 18 Guy Madjo, 21 Matt Lecointe (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 66). Substitutes (not used): 13 Ollie Chenoweth (gk), 17 Curtis Nelson, 19 Joe Lennox, 27 Andres Gurrieri, 28 Johnny Gorman.

Booked: Young 2, Purse 29, Madjo 88.

Bristol Rovers (4-5-1): 28 Sam Walker; 19 Adam Virgo (2 Michael Smith 60), 5 Gary Kenneth, 6 Tom Parkes, 14 Lee Brown; 26 Matt Lund (10 Eliot Richards 55), 21 Wayne Brown (16 Joe Anyinsah 68), 8 Matt Gill, 15 Ollie Norburn, 11 Fabian Broghammer; 7 David Clarkson. Substitutes (not used): 3 Jim Paterson, 20 Conor Gough (gk), 24 Ollie Clarke, 25 Seanan Clucas.
Booked: W Brown 55, Parkes 71, Norburn 84.

Referee: Darren Deadman.

Attendance: 6,303 (361 away).

Plymouth Argyle vs Bristol Rovers - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle entertain Bristol Rovers a local West Country derby on Tuesday night, where both teams will be trying to grab all three points after Saturdays results. The game tomorrow night will be the second league game held at Home Park in as many days for the Pilgrims.  Rovers will be out to impress the manager, with the Gas in 23^rd position, picking up 2points out of a possible 18points from 6 league games.  In terms of Argyle they will be looking to overcome the disappointment from Saturday, and play the attractive football that they played in the first half of their 3-1 defeat to Port Vale.         

Plymouth Argyle have many injury concerns ahead of their clash against Bristol Rovers tomorrow evening a 7:45pm kick-off.  The players doubtful for the game are: Nick Chadwick, Paris Cowan-Hall, Rhys Griffiths, and Paul Wotton, who damaged his Groin in the early stages of Saturday’s game.  In comparison with The Gas they have one manor injury concern with Matt Harrold to left the pitch on crutches after their 4-0 loss at Gillingham.   Rene Gilmartin and Jamie Lowry are major concerns through ankle ligament and knee injuries.   Whilst for the team selection from Argyles point of view Fletcher will be looking to keep the same 11 from Saturday. 

 

Enjoy the game Green Army

Plymouth Argyle vs Port Vale - Match Report

It was a game of two half for everyone concerned with Argyle with Left back Robbie Williams giving the Pilgrims a deservedly  one goal lead going into half time. There was one change from the squad after the goal-less draw away at Torquay, last Saturday, with Onismor Bhasera coming back into the squad after international duty to take the place of Joe Lennox, who dropped down to the bench.  From Port Vales point of view they were unchanged for the 7^th game in a row.   Both teams were looking to continue on their unbeaten runs.  But its wasn’t to be for the men in green.  Argyle were continuing to play Carl Fletchers favoured formation in the first half’s of the games  with the pilgrims going into the game against Port Vale  in a 4-5-1 formation.

The first half was approaching when both sets of players arrived from the tunnel with the Valiants appearing in an unusual pink away kit.  It was them to get the game underway when Argyle pressed the players down extremely well and began to take total control of the first half.  Carl Fletcher has got the players to play the ball on the turf.  It wasn’t until the 20minutes when Argyle took the lead through top scorer Robbie Williams.  The dominance play was awarded with the goal after a Conor Hourihane corner that was cleared it only meant one thing when Williams was on the ball from 25yards out. It was to kick it goal wards.  It went in and up jumped the 6thousand plus fans to celebrate.  Minutes later Port Vale nearly had an equaliser when Jennison Myrie-Williams went inchs close after coming in from the left wing and curling it into the far left hand corner.  Argyle were still in the lead thanks to a Jake Coles superb save from that shot.  Alex MacDonald was causing all sorts of problems for Port Vale when he came inches close to extending Argyles lead. He crossed an inflowing ball into the penalty box when it swerved into the direction of the goal.  Chris Neal made the save and it was another corner for the pilgrims.  It wasn’t that long after until Argyle had another chance for a player to get on the score sheet.  This time near half time one of Paul Wotton’s free kicks was fired into the penalty box, captain Darren Purse came so close to getting on that in swinging ball and finding the back of the green and white nets.  In added time to the first half Argyle saw their first yellow card when midfielder Luke Young went into the tackle a bit dangerously causing him to take out Port Vales Clayton MacDonald just below the Home Wooden dugout.  Argyle went into the break with a greatly deserved 1 goal lead.  A comical point from the first half was Plymouth-born Paul Wotton.  He tried finding Alex MacDonald but instead he found the away dugout, all the subs, staff and medical staff all ducked with the ball smashing against the inside of the  wooden dugout,  with the number 15 turning away smirking.  Nicky Adams wasn’t that too impressed!!!

The players emerged from their half time break with both teams keeping the same 11 that started the first.  It was Argyles turn to get the game underway with the Pilgrims starting very slowly whilst Port Vale must have had a telling off the way they played through the Pilgrims with confidence with free flowing football. It didn’t take that long at all until the Valiants tested goalkeeper Jake Cole who was in-between the posts in front of the Barn Park End where the away fans were kept.  He made a superb save from Tom Pope.  From that moment on they were pushing the pilgrims back where they were holding a high line.  The Pilgrims soon made a substitution with Matt Lecointe replacing Paul Wotton in the 54^th minute who had pick up an injury.    Argyle were passing the ball around comfortably when Port Vale hit the Pilgrims on the break.  Unfortunately from the home teams view Luke Young conceded a penalty by fouling Ashley Vincent.  Jennison Myrie-Williams stepped up and side footed the ball straight through the middle.  Port Vale had equalized.  From that point on the Valiants were in total control off the game.  The equalizer was a real downer for Argyle who had played some of the best football in ages.  The pilgrims went straight up the Devonport End and tried to respond through loan signing Alex MacDonald.  Chris Neal had the shot well covered.  Not long after the visitors taken the lead to make it 2-1.  The move came about after Myrie-Williams slide it back for Ashley Vincent to slide it into the back of the net.  That goal made Fletcher into replacing Luke Young with Guy Madjo who is on loan from Aldershot.  In no time at all Port Vale’s Williamson had made it 3-1.  The pilgrims were still pressing for that goal.  It nearly did come after the Valiants cleared the ball of the line in the closing stages of the goal.  The Visitors had won the game.  That’s what a goal can do, change games.

What a real blow for Argyle who were in total control of game before the Staffordshire based club turned it around from coming behind to win the game 3-1

Argyle (4-5-1): 1 Jake Cole; 2 Durrell Berry, 5 Darren Purse (capt), 4 Maxime Blanchard, 3 Robbie Williams; 32 Alex MacDonald, 6 Conor Hourihane, 15 Paul Wotton (Matt Lecointe 54), 8 Luke Young (18 Guy Madjo 76), 14 Onismor Bhasera; 11 Warren Feeney. Substitutes (not used): 13 Ollie Chenoweth (gk), 17 Curtis Nelson, 19 Joe Lennox, 21, 27 Andres Gurrieri, 28 Johnny Gorman.

Booked: Young 45, Bhasera 64, Berry 77.

Port Vale (4-4-2): 1 Chris Neal, 24 Richard Duffy, 5 John McCombe, 14 Clayton MacDonald, 7 Doug Loft (capt); 9 Jennison Myrie-Williams, 18 Sam Morsy, 15 Chris Shuker (23 Ryan Burge 62), 10 Ashley Vincent (3 Robert Taylor xx); 8 Louis Dodds (19 Ben Williamson 62), 11 Tom Pope. Substitutes (not used): 2 Adam Yates, 6 Gareth Owen, 12 Sam Johnson (gk), 22 Ryan Lloyd.

Booked: Dodds 4, Vincent 73, Loft 87.

Referee: Darren Sheldrake

Attendance: 6,080 (203 away)

Plymouth Argyle vs Port Vale - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle take on Port Vale at Home Park where they will be looking to go four games unbeaten come 3 O’clock this afternoon. The teams that Argyle are unbeaten from are Dagenham & Redbridge, Northampton Town and Devon rivals Torquay United.  This game will be the first of two consecutive games for the Pilgrims at Home Park in front of the green army.  

Port Vale who sit third in the table after pulling of one of the shocks from the early stages of the season, after they thrashed promotion favourites Rotherham United 6-2.  You may not know it but the Staffordshire based club were placed into administration in March 2012 after being hit by a winding up position and still remain in administration come this day.  All the best Port Vale!! 

Onismor Bhasera is back in contention after arriving back in Plymouth on Wednesday after he played for a Zimbabwe squad looking to qualify for the African Cup of Nations 2013 that take place from January 19^th to February 10^th 2013.  If Zimbabwe and Onismor Bhasera qualify for this tournament the versatile player will be sourly missed for his pace and strength to get passed the opposing players and creates chances. 

Nick Chadwick, Paris Cowan-Hall and Rhys Griffiths all remain doubtful through injuries.  While Rene Gilmartin and Jamie Lowry are unavailable for the visit of Port Vale through ankle ligament and knee injuries.  New loan signing Guy Madjo will be looking to be in the starting 11 against the Valiants.  He has said that if he scores he will not celebrate as the big man had a loan spell in Staffordshire last season whilst he was signed to Stevenage Town. 

 Green Army       

Torquay United vs Argyle - Match Preview

The first of many Devon Derby’s are upon us as the Pilgrims take on Torquay United at Plainmoor, with the Green Army making sure the away end is a sell-out with over 1500 tickets sold.  Argyle will be looking to snap up another 3points after their astonishing 3-2 win over Northampton Town at Home Park, which lifted the greens into 15^th position.  The Gulls will be looking to keep their unbeaten run going winning one and drawing three.  There are only two teams at present in League 2 that remain unbeaten in the league.  The teams are Argyles opposition today Torquay United and Gillingham.

Alex MacDonald and Rhys Griffiths will be looking for their first starts of the nPower league 2 campaigns after both players came off the substitute’s bench last Saturday, with the win over Northampton.  After Griffiths was taken of, just after 20minutes of coming on and making his debut in professional football, Fletcher would be looking to select him in the squad that travel to Plainmoor this afternoon after having their pre-match at Home Park. The player that is doubtful for today’s game is summer signing from Woking Paris Cowan-Hall.  He was subbed late on in the first half last Saturday after some tightness in his Hamstring.  Nick Chadwick will also be looking to get his position back in the Argyle squad after being left out of the squad because of a calf injury.    As Onismor Bhasera is away on international duty Fletcher has a couple of players to choose from, in them they are Johnny Gorman, Joe Lennox and Andres Gurrieri that can fill the left midfielders position. The players that Argyle will have to be aware of in the Torquay’s squad are their captain Lee Mansell, midfielder Billy Bodin and striker Rene Rowe. These players are all goal threats.   

GREEN ARMY

Enjoy the game you pilgrims.  Keep on cheering the greens onto the 3points. 

Argyle vs Northampton - Match Report

Argyle won their first game of the season after coming from behind to win 3-2 against a strong Northampton Town side who were unbeaten until yesterday’s game at Home Park.   

There were four changes from the starting 11 that started at Burnley on Tuesday Evening at Turf Moor. Curtis Nelson, Nick Chadwick, Johnny Gorman and Jared Sims all made way for Darren Purse, Warren Feeney, Onismor Bhasera and Paul Wotton.  Nick Chadwick was left out of the squad all together because of a calf injury.  Meanwhile Rhys Griffiths, who has put his career as a fireman on hold to become a professional footballer, was on the bench for the first time this season after recovering from a calf injury.  Whilst in the Northampton squad Adebayo Akinfenwa started his first game after being left on the bench for their last three games.

Northampton who had played on Thursday Evening in the Capital One Cup against Wolverhampton Wanders where the outcome of the game was in Wolves favour as they won the game 3-1.  The Town squad spent Friday morning recovering ready for the game.  Both teams emerged from the tunnel with Northampton wearing a Florissant green kit.  Were they trying to mix in with Argyle?? Darren Purse who was back in the squad after missing Tuesday night because of injury won the toss and decided to kick off the first half.  Paul Wotton and Conor Hourihane got the game underway with the Pilgrims starting very brightly and confidently with the midfield players keeping and passing the ball between themselves.  When Northampton had the possession of the football they passed it to target man Adebayo Akinfenwa, no one could get near him with the captain and experienced defender Darren Purse left to handle the ‘Big Man’ and to prevent him from scoring.  At the other end Paris Cowan-Hall, Paul Wotton and Conor Hourihane had plenty of chances to get on the score sheet, but it wasn’t to be.  Northampton travelled up the other end and scored.  The move came about with a pass to Akinfenwa who held the ball up well so his team mates could join in, he passed it to Plymouth Born Ben Tozer who placed it perfectly into the penalty box with Alex Nichollas turning his man to slot the ball home into the corner of the net right in front of the Devonport.  After Northampton had scored the goal Argyle were slowly but surely progressing as the game went on. An early substitution was in order as Paris Cowan-Hall had to be subbed through a tight hamstring.  It was an early introduction and welcome back to Alex MacDonald.  The fans gave him a very warm welcome for his second debut.  It was half time as both team walked down the tunnel.

Rhys Griffiths was a second half substitution for Argyle as he replaced midfielder Paul Wotton.  Argyle was changing their formation in the second half as they went 4-4-2 rather than 4-1-4-1.  The tactically substitution worked wonders in the second as the Pilgrims equalised in the first two minutes of the second half.  Man-of-the-match Onismor Bhasera was causing all sorts of problems down the left wing when he whipped it into the box when Warren Feeney got in front of his man to head it home.  The fans erupted it was game on.  From that moment Argyle were in the mood.   After Argyle had scored the goal Northampton’s manager Aidy Boothroyd was quick in make a substitution.  The substitution consisted of Adebayo Akinfenwa being replaced by Clive Platt. A straight swap for Northampton.  Minutes later Rhys Griffiths had given Argyle the lead from Bhasera once again when he passed it to the number 10 who then flicked it onto Alex MacDonald who crossed it low into the penalty box with Griffiths slide footing it into the back of the net.  2-1 to the greens.  Sadly for the green army and the fans, Griffiths had to depart the field of play after 20minutes of him making his debut, cautiously as he didn’t want a reoccurrence of his calf problem. He was replaced by defender Curtis Nelson.  No he wasn’t going to play in defence but he was going upfront with Feeney.  Fletcher made this substitution as he didn’t want to leave the defence open.  Within minutes of Nelse coming on he had turned the game around, 3-1 to the greens.  It was great work from Onismor Bhasera once again with the pass to Williams who then whipped a great cross in for Curtis Nelson to head home in the 74^th minute of the game.  After Argyles third goal had gone in Northampton had a series of corners but the defenders stood tall and dealt with then in a professional manor.   Aidy Boothroyd made another tactical substitution with Henoc Mukendi replacing Chris Hackett in the 79^th minute. The Pilgrims were comfortable and passing the ball freely.  The forth official announced there was four minutes added time.  Northampton did get a goal back from summer signing David Artell with a header.  Thankfully Argyle held on for 3 massive points by winning the game 3-2.  Goals from Feeney, Griffiths and Nelson.  Argyle move upto 15^th in the table.  Green Army.

Argyle vs Northampton - Match Preview

Friday 31^st August was Transfer Deadline Day for all clubs present in the Premier League, Championship, League 1 and League 2.  It was a good day in terms of being an Argyle fan with two players moving on, and with Fletcher bringing one familiar face back from last season.  Isaac Vassell joined team-mate Jed Harper-Penman at Bideford on loan.  Whilst midfielder Ladjie Soukouna was released after being told by manager Carl Fletcher that he doesn’t have a future at Home Park.  The news that the fans were waiting for was a signing.  Carl Fletcher had delivered, bringing back fans favourite Alex MacDonald on emergency loan from Burnley until October 6^th. 

An encouraging display at Championship side Burnley at Turf Moor on Tuesday Evening in the Capital One Cup would have given the squad a huge lift in terms of passing the ball around and creating opportunities.  With the game going into extra time and penalties, the outcome of the games was in Burnley’s favour as they won 3-2 on penalties.  They now have a third round tie at Swindon at the County Ground.  In the Burnley squad on that evening was new loan signing Alex MacDonald. 

The Pilgrims team Coach did not return back to Home Park until 6:30AM Wednesday morning.  Whilst the Northampton squad played their Capital One Cup fixture on Thursday evening at Sixfields against championship side Wolverhampton Wanders.  Wolves won the game 3-1 in normal time.

Darren Purse and Rhys Griffiths are doubtful of the visit of Northampton to Home Park with slight injuries.  Jamie Lowry who is still out injured with an ankle injury that happened in Pre-Season will still be side-lined.  Whilst veteran midfield Paul Wotton will be looking to come straight back into the squad after being left in Plymouth to rest whilst the rest of the squad travelled to Lancashire on Monday lunchtime.  Alex MacDonald will be looking to make his second debut in Argyle colours come this afternoon.  After a week of travelling to Dagenham, Oxford and Burnley miles of up to 1500 the players will be looking to get back playing on the Home Park pitch. A lot has happened to Northampton since their last visit to Plymouth last season where Argyle one 4-1. They have a new manager in Aidy Boothroyd and he has brought in some experienced players.  The one to watch in Northampton’s squad is Adebayo Akinfenwa. 

Let’s all see you cheering on and getting behind the greens at Home Park today. Kick-off 3pm      

Oxford vs Argyle - Preview

The last time Argyle and Oxford met at the Kaasam Stadium was last season in which the Pilgrims lost 5-1. This was there heaviest defeat.  Most of the squad on that Tuesday evening last season were aging between 17 and 19. The greens were still in administration at that time with James Brent trying to finalise a deal to buy the club from being liquidated. Thanks to James Brent Plymouth still has a club. 

Durrell Berry and three of Carl Fletchers summer signings Jamie Lowry, Rhys Griffiths and Rene Gilmartin are all still side-lined through injuries whilst the rest of the squad are all fit for selection for tomorrow games against Oxford United at the Kassam Stadium.  The one to watch out for in the Oxford’s squad is Jake Forster-Caskey the stepson of Nicky Forster currently manager of Dover Athletic.  Forster-Caskey is on loan from championship side Brighton & Hove Albion. 

Meanwhile Carl Fletchers first signing of the season from Woking, Paris Cowan-Hall will be looking for a starting 11 place after his impressive displays on the pitch after coming on during the second half of the games. Also looking to break into the starting 11 is Northern Ireland Striker Warren Feeney. 

Fletcher’s team will also be looking to improve on the pitch after a very poor performance on Tuesday Evening. The players were lucky to come away from Dagenham & Redbridge with a point.    

Manager Carl Fletcher and captain Darren Purse will be looking to lead the team onto a valuable 3points.

I’m sure there will be a few hundred more among the green army, cheering on the lads from the North stand in Oxfordshire as Argyle have sold out there limit of 500 tickets.  Green Army!  

 

Argyle vs Aldershot - Match Report

 

With Argyle kicking off the Npower league 2 season at home to Aldershot Town it was a chance for the greens to get some points onto the board.  But unfortunately the Pilgrims suffered a 2-0 defeat to the Shots with the goals coming from Troy Brown and a penalty from Josh Payne. Regardless of Argyle having most of the possession they were unable to break the Aldershot defence.

Carl Fletcher decided to stick with the exact starting 11 that played in the 3-0 win over Portsmouth to start the league 2 fixture  Vs  Aldershot Town.  On the other hand Aldershot were forced to make many changes to their starting 11 due to injury’s to their players   A huge crowd turned up at Home Park expecting big things from the players.  The players emerged from the tunnel in the new look Home Kit sponsored by Bond Timber.  An unusual territory came when the Pilgrims were handed the chance to face the Devonport Enders in the first half rather than in the second half.  That meant the Shots were shooting towards the Barn Park End in front of their own fans. 

Argyle players Paul Wotton and Conor Hourihane kicked the ball for this first league game of the season.  In fairness to Aldershot their players were raring to go closing down the Pilgrims very quickly.  With not the greatest of starts from the Pilgrims they found themselves 1-0 down inside the first five minutes.  Onismor Bhasera   fouled his man just outside the penalty box and the Shots were awarded a free kick.  Anthony Tonkin placing the free kick perfecting onto Defender Troy Brown who guided the ball passed Jake Cole Argyle number 1 goalkeeper.  Like many times last season after the Pilgrims had conceded a goal they just dropped their heads but all fairness to the players they tried to get an equaliser down at the other end.  After the goal had gone in it took the Pilgrims a couple to minute to get back into the swing of the game and keeping the possession of the ball very well.  That nearly paid off when both Nick Chadwick and Andres Gurrieri coming close to finding the back of the net, but two good saves from their goalkeeper declined the Pilgrims from getting on the score sheet.  The next opportunity came from free kick specialist Paul Wotton.  Only the post denied the Paul Wotton from equalising after he celebrated his 35^TH Birthday on Friday. With Argyle having most of the possession it was time for Johnny Gorman, the scorer of the first goal against Portsmouth, to make a goal scoring opportunity for Nick Chadwick only for the defender to nick it off his foot.  Half time was some approaching with Argyle still in total control of the match.

Second half came round very quickly with the Shots  first out after the first half with the Pilgrims making them wait a few more minutes until they reappeared from the tunnel.  Aldershot kicked of the second half with the Pilgrims shooting towards the Barn Park End.  I expect most fans were still thinking it was the first half as the Pilgrims don’t usually shoot towards the Devonport until the second half.  Soon after the restart Argyle created there next shot on goal.  Conor Hourihane volleyed the ball only for a Shots defender to deflect it to safety.  Minutes after the Away team were awarded a penalty after Bhasera and Blanchard had fouled Michael Rankine.  It was Josh Payne to step up to take the penalty.  He had scored with Jake Cole going the wrong way.  Off he trotted to celebrate with his teammates. 2-0 to the Aldershot. Luke Young was introduced into the game just after the 60^th minute marking replacing Johnny Gorman.  The greens started to play some very neat football passing between each other and creating some chances but Aldershot stood tall and defended well.  The next two substitutions that Carl Fletcher would make would be to replace Andres Gurrieri with new recruit Paris Cowan-Hall with 20minutes still to play in the game.  A straight change for the Pilgrims with Cowan-Hall playing right midfield.  Also Warren Feeney replaced Matty LeCointe who had put in a very promising display with Nick Chadwick.  It was nearly a super sub for Argyle as they nearly pulled a goal back from Feeno who headed Curtis Nelson cross. Warren Feeney was involved in the play once again to set up Chaddy but his shot was well saved by the goalkeeper.

 Aldershot had won 2-0 at Home Park. They travel back up the M4 with all three points in the bag.  Keep the faith the results will come.  GREEN ARMY.

Next Home Game: Northampton Saturday 1^st September 3pm kick-off

Next Away Game: Dagenham & Redbridge Tuesday 21^st August 7:45pm kick-off

Argyle vs Aldershot - Match Preview

Weeks and months have passed by since Argyles last competitive game against Cheltenham Town. Argyle now welcomes Aldershot Town to Home Park for the first game of the 2012-13 season.  A lot of changes have been made to Home Park including the season tickets, dugouts and goal-nets, the family area, The Argyle Arms, and of course a splash of paint around the changing rooms. Not forgetting the new additions to the squad made by gaffer Carl Fletcher.  With 10 spaces separating Argyle and Aldershot last season with the greens fighting for relegations in 21^st place and with the Shots playing for a promotion spot in 10^th place.

The start of last season the greens headed north to Shrewsbury still fighting off liquidation.  The Pilgrims travelled back south with a draw thanks to now manager Carl Fletcher scoring a stunner in added time of the 90.  From that day on the squad faced 10 consecutive defeats. The squad travelled up on Friday 16^th September for their league encounter against Southend at Roots Hall on Saturday 17^th 2011.  The pilgrims lost 2-0 on that day. The Sunday after that defeat former Director Peter Ridsdale acted quickly to sack Peter Reid.  He took no time to appoint current manager Carl Fletcher.  The first win of the season came at Home to Macclesfield which was also a fans reunited day.  I expect most Pilgrims would never look back at those days before that match.  We now look forward to what’s coming up in the next few hours, days and weeks.  

Durrell Berry and new signings Rhys Griffiths and Jamie Lowry will all have to sit out this match against the Shots due to knee, calf and ankle ligament damage. Paris Cowan Hall will be looking to break into the starting 11 after his goal against former club Portsmouth, who we beat 3-0 with Johnny Gorman and Nick Chadwick also scoring goals to help us reach the second round of the Capital One Cup.  New loan signing Johnny Gorman will be looking to keep his space in the squad after impressing on his debut against Portsmouth in which he scored a cracking goal.  New Captain Darren Purse will be looking to use all of his experience to help the greens be right up the league table pushing for promotion rather than relegation.  Also with experience players in Paul Wotton and Nick Chadwick, they are vastly experienced players who can help the young players progress, and fight for a place in the starting 11 come 3pm every Saturday and 7:45pm on Tuesday.   

We are Plymouth Argyle and in Carl Fletcher we trust.  Come along to Home Park and sing your hearts  out to cheer on the lads to 3 valuable points.  Let’s get off to a fantastic start. Green Army

Argyle vs Portsmouth - Match Report

Tuesday 14^th August had finally arrived when the Pilgrims stepped onto the field for their first competitive game of the new season.  Rain poured onto the Home Park playing field, seemingly not the weather that was hoped in the middle of August.  More like the beginning of the winter season!!!  The team sheets were in with the starting line-up  for the Pilgrims  as followed: Goalkeeper- Jake Cole, Defenders, Curtis Nelson, Darren Purse, Maxime Blanchard, Onismor Bhasera, the midfield players - Johnny Gorman, Conor Hourihane, Paul Wooton and Andres Gurrieri with Nick Chadwick and Matty LeCoite playing upfront.  Portsmouth themselves fielding a youth squad with only two recognised players, that have played league football before. I expect most of the green army were expecting summer signing Rhys Griffiths from Port Talbot to make his debut.  But unfortunately he was kept out of the starting 11 because of a thigh injury picked up in Monday’s training session. 

Both teams emerged from the tunnel with Argyle strolling out with a new look captain.  In this Darren Purse had been given the captain armband with former skipper Simon Walton moving up north because of family issues to persue his career in professional football.  Argyle started the first half very quickly and professionally after kicking off the first half.  Inside the first two minutes the greens were awarded a free kick just outside the penalty box.  Both Paul Wotton and new boy Johnny Gorman were over the ball, but it was Gorman to fire in the free kick.  Non-league goalkeeper and Pompey’s captain for the evening Simon Eastwood failed to catch the greasy ball which resulted in Pompey conceding the first of many corners of the game.  Soon after Matty LeCointe nearly made it 1-0, from good build up play by the midfield players the ball made its way through to LeCointe who turned and fired towards the goal.  A great save by Simon Eastwood to keep the score 0-0 and to turn it away from a corner.   The young men from Portsmouth had their first shot on target just inside the half hour mark.  This came from Harris who left Bhasera struggling to fire the shot across Jake Cole’s goal. Argyle had another corner when Blanchard nicked it off Purses head  who had the potential  of powering it into the back of the net.  The greens were pushing to break the Portsmouth defence.  The breakthrough came on the 45^th minutes from a stunning pass from veteran midfield Paul Wotton to Johnny Gorman, who was free to run at the defenders, and fire the ball pass the goalkeeper to make it 1-0 to the greens. Was it a pass or a strike on the goal??  Moments after that stunning goal the forth official held up for the board to announce there was two minutes added time.  All Argyle didn’t want was to concede straight after scoring the first.  So they kept it solid until the half time whistle was blown.  The Pilgrims went into the break 1 nil to the good.

Portsmouth were the first ones to appear after half time whilst the Pilgrims were making the opposites wait a bit longer. There was a second half substitution for Argyle with Andres Gurrieri coming off for Joe Lennox a straight swap.  Portsmouth re-started the second half with them shooting towards the Barn Park End in front of their fans.  The Pilgrims started the opposite of the first half.  It took a long time for the Pilgrims to get back into the game. Whilst Pompey came out of the blocks very quickly passing the ball comfortably between themselves.   In no time at all Argyle were slowly but surely passing the ball quickly and smoothly.  Striker Nick Chadwick missed a complete sitter when Midfielder Conor Hourihane passed the ball through to perfection, all Chadders had to do was chip it over the goalkeeper.  Somehow Chadwick chipped the ball marginally wide of the right hand post in front of the Devonport Enders. With chants ringing around Home Park ‘Chadders for England’. I think every single fan thought it had made its way into the back of the green and white net. Soon after that Fletcher made another substitution with goal scorer Johnny Gorman making way for Luke Young.  Portsmouth were still pressuring the greens defence forcing Jake Cole to make some saves.  Portsmouth had a great chance of equalising through Webster but the ball went narrowly wide of the post. Final sub for Argyle came when Paris Cowan Hall replaced Matty Lecointe.  Minutes later he had made it 2-0 in the 85^th minute.  Maxime Blachard had headed the ball onto Paris who then placed it passed the goalkeeper.  Exactly two minutes later Chadwick had made up for his earlier mistake by getting onto Lennox cross to put it into the back of the net.  Off he went to celebrate with the fans and his team mates. 

All credit has to go to Portsmouth and their 750 travelling fans.  All the best!!  We know what it feels like.

FANS RE-UNITED WILL NEVER BE DEFEATED!! GREEN ARMY

See you all on Saturday for the game against Aldershot at Home Park, kick-off 3pm.

Argyle vs Pompey - Preview

I hope you greens have all had a great summer and looking forward to getting back into the football season, after the pilgrims secured their football league status last season.  This season Argyle will begin the campaign with a Capital One Cup game against Dockyard rivals Portsmouth.  The reason for starting a new a season with a cup game was so the games wouldn’t clash with the Olympics that were held in London.  This fixture will be a fans re-united game in which fans from different clubs from across the country come down in support of Pompey, who are in administration for the second time in as many years.  Pompey who will make the trip down to Plymouth without any professional players would have to fulfil a starting 11 of youth, a non-league goalkeeper and their first team coach, who will come out of retirement to participate in the evening fixture being played at Home Park.

The pilgrims come into the game with five new recruits added to the squad.  They include goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin, strikers Rhys Griffiths and Johnny Gorman and midfield pairing Paris Cowan-Hall and Andres Gurreri.  All of these players will be looking to impress the gaffer Carl Fletcher to be on the team sheet against Portsmouth.

With former skipper Simon Walton moving to Hartlepool for family reasons, Fletcher to no time to appoint vastly experienced centre back Darren Purse to lead the team on the second round of the Capital One Cup.

Fans re-united will never die!!! GREEN ARMY. 

Argyle vs Cheltenham Town - Match Report

I expect most of the players, staff and fans of Plymouth Argyle are glad the 2011-12 season is all over.  The season in which saw Argyle enter in administration with former Argyle manager Peter Reid struggling to bring in fresh players, due to the transfer embargo meaning that he was forced into using part of the 2011-12 youth team champions.  From September 19^th when experienced manager Peter Reid was sacked.  Former chairman Peter Ridsdale then appointed captain of the time Carl Fletcher as player-manager.  From, that day on the club wouldn’t look back as the first game Fletcher was involved in the team won 2-0 against Macclesfield, in which this game was a Fans-reunited game where fans from different clubs came down to Devon to support the greens.  Some as far as Scotland.   Argyle played Oxford on Saturday 21^st April with the final score at 1-1.  The pilgrims are safe with two games to go until the end of the season.  This season has been very emotional indeed. 

With Simon Walton, Darren Purse, Paul Wotton and Nick Chadwick all watching on from the Mayflower in came Curtis Nelson to partner the Skipper for the afternoon.  There were also recalls for Ladjie Soukouna, Conor Hourihane and also Alex MacDonald.  Centre-back Maxime Blanchard was awarded the captains armband after signing a new 2year deal with the greens.  The Robins also made a couple of changes most noticeable former pilgrim Steve MacLean playing upfront for the Town.  He did get a bit of stick from the green army especially from the Devonport Enders. 

Cheltenham kicked off the first half quickly getting into the game and passing the ball around neatly forcing some early saved from the pilgrims keeper Jake Cole.   Cheltenham won a free kick just outside the penalty box when Steve MacLean deflecting the shot that passed Jake Cole in goal.  Off MacLean trotted to celebrate right in front of the Devonport.  They didn’t like that. Argyle 0-1 Town in the 21^st minute.  After that goal against us the greens started but slowly to get into the rhythm of the game and started to pass the ball within the defence, midfield and forwards.  With the pace of Cheltenham’s number 20 Jermaine McGlashan it was giving the home side problems especially down the left with Robbie Williams struggling every time. McGlashan was making every single chance for robins to score in the first half.   With the robins pressing the pilgrims defence all the players except Warren Feeney were pushed into their own half defending for their lives.  Phil Gibbs had blown the whistle for half time as the players walked down the tunnel and into the dressing room.

At the start of the second half Carl Fletcher had decided to make two changes to the team that started the first half.  The manager took of both defender Robbie Williams and striker Alex MacDonald bringing on Juvhel Tsoumou and Joe Lennox.  This meant a formation change with Onismor Bhasera dropping back into left back giving the chance for Joe Lennox to run down the left wing. What a good tactical substitution that turned out to be great one.  Within 10minutes of Juvhel Tsoumou being on the pitch he had equalised for the pilgrims.  He had done so after powerfully heading in Onismor Bhasera’s cross from the left.  Argyle 1-1 Town.  Not even 60seconds had gone when Cheltenham went up the other end and had went 2-1 up with ex pilgrim MacLean heading the ball across the goal line when step in captain Marlon Park had put a foot to the ball and it went over the lone according to the linesmen.  But every single green army fan and even the players different think it crossed the goal line.  Another case for the introduction of goal-line technology for the next season or years to come.  I hope your reading Mr.S.Blatter.  With 80minutes gone on the clock the fans gave a standing ovation when former pilgrim Luke Summerfield was striped and ready to make a return to the theatre of greens.   With long serving goalkeeper of nearly 12 years Romain Larrieu in which he was to announce his retirement from the game.  What a legend he has been for the greens.  In the 85^th minute it was time for another change from player manager Carl Fletcher.  This substitution was a well-deserved change as Jake Cole made way for Larrieu his last appearance in a green shirt.  There was a round of applause even before he had got onto the pitch when he was warming up and fell over.  Former pilgrim Luke Summerfield nearly made it 3-1 to the visitors but it was just wide of the right hand post.  The referee had blown for full time with the pilgrims going down 2-1 to Cheltenham Town who go back up the M5 happy knowing they will have to play Torquay in the first round of the play-offs.  Have a great summer you pilgrims.  See you all next season!! GREEN ARMY.  Happy retirement Larrieu.