Rochdale vs Plymouth Argyle - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle will explore the countryside and travel to Rochdale for the biggest game in recent years for the club.

The Pilgrims will need to be undefeated come 5pm on Saturday to avoid relegation to the Conference Blue Square Premier as they go into the last game of the 2012-13 season. The Greens, placed in 19^th place and on 52 points, will have to win or draw at Spotland Stadium, in front of thousands of members of the Green Army travelling to the game from around the country. The players have even chosen to sponsor one of the coaches travelling from Home Park to the game.

10 years ago this season, now a premiership side, Swansea City avoided relegation to the Conference Premier on the last day of the season at the expense of Devon Rivals Exeter City.  Can Argyle do the same? In 2002, Paul Wotton, and former Argyle players clichéd promotion at Rochdale, winning 3-1 on March 26^th. Now Paul Wotton and current players wearing the green shirt with pride will go to Rochdale on a completely different note.  Saturday they will be aiming for all three points to be a football league club next season rather than aiming for promotion. This season both clubs have already met in the division at Home Park on Saturday 20^th October 2012.  The result that day finished in the Pilgrims favour winning 3-1 with former loanee Guy Madjo getting two and Andres Gurrieri adding the third.  Rochdale’s consolation goal came from Dele Adebola on 76minutes.     

John Sheridan, who will manage Argyle for the last time tomorrow after being offered a contract until the end of the season, by owner James Brent in January, will be without Warren Feeney and Jamie Lowry for the trip to Rochdale.  Warren Feeney has been out of the game since 12^th January 2013; when Argyle played Morecambe at Home Park.  The striker suffered an ankle injury in the first half and is still recovering from that injury.  Midfielder Jamie Lowry, who was reunited with Sheridan at Plymouth, is recovering from an ankle injury that he picked during training.  Whilst defender, Jamie Richards, is unavailable as he is on-loan to Dorset club Weymouth Town.  Joe Bryan, Ronan Murray and Reuben Reid will all play there last game in a green shirt as they all return to their parent clubs after joining on loan from Bristol City, Ipswich Town and Yeovil Town, until the end of the season. Rochdale manager Keith Hill will be without Andrew Tutte and Rhys Bennett as they are struggling with knee injuries.        

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Anthony Charles, Onismor Bhasera, Joe Bryan, Curtis Nelson, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Paris Cowan-Hall, Ronan Murray, Andres Gurrieri, Isaac Vassell, Jared Sims, Reuben Reid, Nick Chadwick, Matt LeCointe, Tyler Harvey.

Unavailable: - Warren Feeney (ankle injury), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury), Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth).

Plymouth ARGYLE vs Rotherham United - Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle will secure their Football League status on Saturday if they can obtain all three points at Home Park to promotion contenders Rotherham United. 

The Greens are heading into their last home game of the 2012-13 season needing only three points to play in the football league next season. If other results go the Pilgrims way it doesn’t matter what result comes from the encounter at Home Park.   If 23^rd place Barnet lose at home to Wycombe Wanders Argyle will only need a point from the game to achieve survival and play in the football league for a following season.     

The Pilgrims are heading into the Npower League Two fixture on Saturday in 17^th place following the crucial victory over John Sheridan’s former club Chesterfield on Tuesday evening.  Argyle took a two goal lead into the second half with both Joe Bryan and Curtis Nelson contributing to the goals, in the first half, since Jason Banton’s departure from the club earlier in the week. However in the second half Chesterfield scored from an own goal from central defender Guy Branston. Whereas for Rotherham, Saturday’s visitors to Home Park, will be eager to achieve the three points as they look to protect their automatic promotion spot, third place, as they head into the last fixture of the Npower League Two season next Saturday. Rotherham have won three consecutive fixtures, including their 2-0 win over Capital One Cup finalist Bradford City.

John Sheridan will be aiming to name an un-changed side following their victory over Chesterfield, at the Proact Stadium, as 399 members of the Green Army were in attendance to witness as the players picked up the three points.  Midfielder Lee Cox will still be missing from the match day squad due to suffering ligament damage in his shoulder in the win over Exeter City at Home Park.   Striker Warren Feeney will still absent from the squad due to an ankle injury.  Also missing the last home day of the season at Home Park will be Jamie Lowry, the midfielder suffered an ankle injury a few games back and will miss next Saturday’s showdown at Rochdale in the last fixture in Npower League Two.  As for Rotherham, Steve Evans, will be hopeful for the return of his two main players, former Exeter City Daniel Nardiello and David Noble are recovering from a thigh injury and a virus and are hopeful to be included in Saturdays match day squad.  Doubtful for the fixture for the visitors is Michael O’Connor; O’Connor suffered a knock in Tuesday’s win over Bradford City.    

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Onismor Bhasera, Joe Bryan, Curtis Nelson, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Paris Cowan-Hall, Ronan Murray, Andres Gurrieri, Isaac Vassell, Jared Sims, Reuben Reid, Nick Chadwick, Matt LeCointe, Tyler Harvey.

Unavailable: - Warren Feeney (ankle injury), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury), Lee Cox (shoulder injury), Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth).

Chesterfield vs Plymouth Argyle-Match Preview

For the second of two consecutive away games, Argyle will travel to Chesterfield, the fixture that was rearranged due to the original match being snowed over.   

John Sheridan’s Pilgrims will make their second trip to the Proact Stadium home to Chesterfield this evening, following the postponement of the original fixture on 23^rd March 2013.  This Npower League Two fixture unfortunately fell foul of the British weather that was to hit most of the Country that week and weekend.         

John Sheridan will revisit Chesterfield where he enjoyed three successful seasons as manager from the years of 2009 to 2012 after being appointed on June 9^th 2009 on a three year contract.  During his spell at the club he won two trophies, with the first one coming in his second season in charge as The Spireites won promotion to Npower League One. The celebrations started after a 3-1 victory over play-off chasing Gillingham in the last fixture of the season.  The following season guaranteed even more festivities when the club reached the Johnstone Paint Trophy Final held at Wembley against Swindon.  After being victorious at Wembley the club were relegated back to Npower League Two after finishing in 22^nd place.  The following season ended with Sheridan leaving the club on 28^th August 2012 after picking up two points from the first three games at the start of the season.

Plymouth Argyle will welcome back captain Conor Hourihane for their trip to Chesterfield on Tuesday evening.  The skipper has sat out the previous two games due to suspension after he picked up his 10^th bookable offence away at York City on Easter Monday.  One player who will be missing the encounter is Jason Banton who was on loan from Championship side Crystal Palace.  The winger was re-called by former Argyle boss Ian Holloway, by immediate effect, following Saturday’s narrow defeat to 3^rd place Burton Albion.  On loan Swindon midfielder Lee Cox is unavailable to manager John Sheridan for the remainder of the season. The midfielder is going to have to have surgery on his shoulder after dislocating it in the Devon Derby at Home Park. For Sheridan’s old club Chesterfield, they will be without experienced striker Jack Lester. Lester misses out through a back injury.  That is the only injury concern which Paul Cook is to worry about.           

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenowweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Guy Branston, Anthony Charles, Curtis Nelson, Onismor Bhasera, Joe Bryan, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Ronan Murray, Andres Gurrieri, Paris Cowan-Hall, Jared Sims, Isaac Vassell, Reuben Reid, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe.

Doubtful: - Paul Wotton (groin injury)

Unavailable: - Jason Banton (re-called by Crystal Palace), Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth), Lee Cox (shoulder injury), Warren Feeney (ankle injury), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury)

Burton Albion vs Plymouth ARGYLE-Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle will travel in high spirits to Staffordshire to face Burton Albion on Saturday, following their victory over promotion chasing Cheltenham Town the previous week.

Following the 2-0 win over the Gloucestershire side, Cheltenham Town, Plymouth Argyle moved up to 18^th place 4 points clear of the relegation zone.  As for Argyle’s opponents Burton Albion, the Brewers sit in the automatic promotion places in third position after a comfortable 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanders on Tuesday Evening.

Plymouth Argyle and Burton Albion have already played each other this season at Home Park on 7^th November.  Burton Albion took all three points on a very chilly Tuesday evening.  In the Argyle starting line-up that evening is present Albion midfielder Alex MacDonald.  Signed from Woking Town in the summer Paris Cowan-Hall gave the home side the lead just at the start of the second half on 49minutes.  Albion had equalised on 74 minutes through Nathan Stanton and Robbie Weir had scored the winning goal 4 minutes after the equaliser had been scored. 

Players from each team will come up against their former clubs if selected on Saturday in the Npower League Two fixture.  Argyle defender Guy Branston and midfielder Andres Gurrieri have both played for Burton Albion; whilst from the Albion Alex MacDonald and Damien McCrory have had spells with the Pilgrims.  Guy Branston enjoyed a season at the Pirelli Stadium making 19 appearances; he was then released at the end of the 2009-10 season and joined Torquay United on a one year contract.  While Argentine Gurrieri played for the Brewers last season, season 2011-12, making 13 appearances. After being released by Albion at the end of last season Gurrieri had a trial with the Pilgrims which was successful and signed a 12-month contract. Burton Albion midfielder Alex MacDonald has been signed by Argyle on two separate occasions on loan from Championship side Burnley. Most recently the fans favourite joined the Pilgrims on loan at the start of this current season.  The attacking midfielder was set to join Plymouth Argyle permanently in the January transfer window, until the deal fell through after former manager Carl Fletcher was sacked at the beginning of January 2013. Another Brewer who has been contracted to the Devon Club is Damien McCrory, the Irish born started his career with Argyle, having signed with the centre of excellence.  He was soon offered a 12 month professional contract in 2008.  In that year he spent time out on loan at Port Vale and Grimsby Town.  In 2010 Damien signed a two year contract for Dagenham & Redbridge.     

Manager of the month for March, John Sheridan will be aiming to name an un-changed side on Saturday when the Pilgrims face third place Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium.  After becoming the second youngest player to be named as Plymouth Argyle captain, Curtis Nelson is look set to keep hold of the armband for the trip up North whilst Conor Hourihane serves his second of a two match suspension. However Paul Wotton is doubtful for this encounter due to a groin injury that he suffered in the win over Cheltenham at Home Park last Saturday. Also very doubtful for the Npower League Two fixture is Lee Cox, who is on loan from Swindon, is still struggling with a shoulder injury that he sustained in the Devon Derby.  As for Burton Albion Calvin Zola is a doubt for the visit of Plymouth through a hamstring and hip injury which has seen him sat out the last four fixtures.  Captain Zander Diamond and goalkeeper Stuart Tomlinson look set to return to the starting line-up after being dropped by manager Rewett for Tuesdays fixture after the 7-1 defeat to Port Vale the previous Saturday. 

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Anthony Charles, Guy Branston, Curtis Nelson, Onsimor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Luke Young, Jared Sims, Isaac Vassell, Paris Cowan-Hall, Joe Bryan, Andres Gurrieri, Ronan Murray, Nick Chadwick, Reuben Reid, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe. 

Doubtful: - Paul Wotton (groin injury),

Unavailable: - Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth), Conor Hourihane (suspended), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury), Lee Cox (shoulder injury), Warren Feeney (ankle injury).

Plymouth ARGYLE vs Cheltenham Town-Match Report

Plymouth Argyle 2

 

Reid 40'

Hector (og) 54'

 

 Cheltenham Town 0

 

Plymouth Argyle moved three points clear of the relegation zone after a 2-0 victory over automatic promotion chasing Cheltenham Town at Home Park. 

John Sheridan had made two chances to the side that had lost to York City on Easter Monday. Captain Conor Hourihane was absent from the squad through suspension, whilst winger Paris Cowan-Hall was dropped to the substitute bench.  The players to come into the side were Curtis Nelson and Andres Gurrieri.  Through Irish midfielder Hourihane being suspended for two games, manager John Sheridan named a new captain.  The choice of captain would’ve surprised a lot of fans when Sheridan named Curtis Nelson as the skipper for the Npower League Two fixture.  From the decision Curtis Nelson became the second youngest Argyle player ever to wear the armband since 1969.  Sheridan also welcomed back defender Anthony Charles to the substitute bench after he had recovered from a recurrence of a groin injury.   Cheltenham manager Mark Yates had made no chances from their Easter Monday 1-0 victory over promotion chasing Northampton Town at the Abbey Business Stadium.

Making his first appearance for Argyle in nearly two months, Curtis Nelson, who has recently recovered from a groin injury, was ready to lead by example and walk out his team onto the Home Park pitch following the referees for the start of the fixture.  Curtis Nelson playing in midfield was to get the game underway alongside central midfield partner Luke Young.  The visitors, Cheltenham Town, were well in control of the tempo of the encounter in the early stages of the match forcing an early save of Jake Cole.  Byron Harrison had their first shot on target; a weakened shot was shot straight at Jake Cole, who saved well.  Argyle gradually got into the game, when leading by example captain Curtis Nelson ran towards the goal, with defenders backing off it enabled him to spread the play out wide to Argentine winger Andres Gurrieri, who pinged it across the penalty area to Rueben Reid.  His first touch wasn’t the best as he scuffed the ball missing the target.  Crystal Palace loanee, Jason Banton was once again a threat on both sides of the midfield.  His first shot towards goal ended up in the stand after he fired the shot high and wide over the crossbar. It wasn’t long after that shot that Cheltenhams boss Mark Yates had to make a substitution.  Swindon loanee Paul Benson went down inside Argyles half un-challenged as he tried to receive a pass from midfielder Marlon Pack. Shaun Harrad was to replace Benson upfront, as he was carried off on a stretcher to receive some treatment. Argyle had another shooting opportunity when Andres Gurrieri slide in Jason Banton, who was searching for his 7^th Argyle goal since joining on loan in January. Jason Banton avoiding the off-side track as he got in between the Cheltenham defenders, shot wide from the far post as Scott Brown spread out wide to deny the forward from scoring from an acute angle.  Left-back Onismor Bhasera had another break to give the Pilgrims the lead.  A busting run from the Zimbabwe international was first and a shot followed, goalkeeper Scott Brown was unable to hold onto it and so it fell to Bhasera again, he passed it to Gurrieri who shot went inches wide of the left goal-post from inside the penalty area.  From a Sido Jombati throwing near the opposition dug-out, Argyle had taken the lead just before the interval.  A Blanchard clearance from the throwing fell to Gurrieri who booted it up field.  The ball kindly fell to Yeovil loanee Reuben Reid who held of defender Michael Hector to pass it to Jason Banton.  He then passed it out wide to Joe Bryan who checked inside on his left and spirited towards goal, Bryan un-leashed a shot which rebounded of the far post.  Following a goalmouth scramble inside the box the ball finally fell to Reuben Reid whose shot ended up in the back of the end passing defenders and a goal keeper.  Cheltenham did have a chance on goal just after Plymouth took the lead with Reuben Reid.  After having no-luck right-wing against Onismor Bhasera, McGlashan switched wings.  A daring run by the pasey winger forced a save off Jake Cole after he had cut inside of Blanchard and curled a shot towards goal.  After three additional minutes were played the referee blew for half time.                                  

 Half Time Argyle 1-0 Cheltenham

Argyle was out for the second half starting of the way they finished the first half.  Jason Banton had picked up the ball inside his own half and picked out Reuben Rid on the left wing with a great pass over the midfielders and defenders, Reid then spread the ball to on rushing Joe Bryan who cut inside on the left and shot, a high dipping shot was saved comfortably by Scott Brown.   Argyle had scored again from an own goal by central defender Michael Hector.  Following Hector intercepting an Bryan shot the ball kindly fell to midfielder Luke Young, he then p[assed it to over lapping Onismor Bhasera on the left wing.  Bhasera powerfully ran down the wing to the bar line, shaking off defenders, he then crossed the ball ready for Reid to knock home, but unfortunately for Cheltenham the ball rebounded of Michael Hector and into the back of the Devonport net. Argyle had nearly got another goal after Joe Bryan had intercepted Sam Deering just inside Cheltenham’s half, Banton of laid the ball to Reid who was once again on the left wing, he once again cut inside on the left and forced a great save of Scott Brown in goal.  Cheltenham Town had two every good chances of scoring a goal, with the first one coming after a high ball from Scott Brown, substitute Kaid Mohammed shot after Paul Wotton was unable to hold off his man, Cole made a fantastic save with his feet to deny the substitute.  Mohammad had another chance but shot straight at goalkeeper Jake Cole from outside the penalty box.  Sheridan was forced into make his first substitution of the fixture after Paul Wotton was forced off through a groin injury, the player to replace and partner Branston in the heart of the defence was Anthony Charles.  Reuben Reid had nearly grabbed his second goal of the afternoon, Banton had done exceptionally well to avoid the defenders and find Reid who was unmarked.  He put it onto his right foot and inside Lowe to shot, the shot rebounded of the goalpost and out for a goal kick. After Easter Monday’s disappointing defeat, this victory was well deserved, as the Pilgrims raised four places to 18^th in Npower League Two.                                                                                                                                                                           Full Time: Argyle 2-0 Cheltenham.                                         

Argyle (4-5-1): 1 Jake Cole; 4 Maxime Blanchard, 15 Paul Wotton (26 Anthony Charles 76), 5 Guy Branston, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 27 Andres Gurrieri, 17 Curtis Nelson (capt), 19 Jason Banton (28 Ronan Murray 90), 8 Luke Young, 18 Joe Bryan, 24 Reuben Reid (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 90). Substitutes (not used): 2 Durrell Berry, 9 Nick Chadwick, 20 Rene Gilmartin (gk), 29 Tyler Harvey.

Cheltenham Town (4-4-2): 1 Scott Brown; 2 Keith Lowe, 27 Michael Hector, 6 Steve Elliott, 22 Sido Jombati; 11 Jermaine McGlashan, 7 Marlon Pack, 4 Darren Carter (16 Russell Penn 60), 8 Sam Deering (23 Kaid Mohamed 55); 19 Paul Benson (14 Shaun Harrad 25), 29 Byron Harrison. Substitutes (not used): 3 Billy Jones, 9 Darryl Duffy, 12 Connor Roberts (gk), 25 Jason Taylor.

Booking: Mohammed 65.

Referee: Carl Berry.

Attendance: 7,941 (316 away).



Plymouth ARGYLE vs Cheltenham Town-Match Preview

Following the disappointment of Easter Monday’s defeat to York City, Argyle return to Home Park to face, automatic promotion chasing, Cheltenham Town.   

As it’s nearing the end of the 2012-13 season, Plymouth Argyle and Cheltenham Town will be desperate for three points for diverse reasons.  The Pilgrims are eager to escape relegation to the Blue Square Conference Premier, whilst the Robins are pushing for automatic promotion to Npower League One.  The Gloucestershire side are currently sitting in fourth position, behind Northampton who have a greater goal difference.  As for Plymouth Argyle they are placed in 22^nd with 46 points, one place above the relegation line.

The last meeting between the two sides this season was at the Abbey Business Stadium on Tuesday 23^rd October 2012 where the Pilgrims lost 2-1 after midfielder Conor Hourihane had given the Pilgrims a 30^th minute led. Since that result players have departed and new ones have come in to wear the green shirt, a manger has also moved on.  The past three results between Cheltenham and Argyle have all ended 2-1, with the Robins taking all three points each time.  The last time Argyle and Cheltenham met at Home Park was the last fixture of the 2011-12 season, the match was played on 5^th May.  In this encounter the players that were signed to Argyle knew the club was to play in the football league for another season, avoiding relegation, and the Robins knew they had a place in the Npower League Two Finals.  They reached the final at Wembley but unfortunately lost out to Crewe Alexandra.  The result at Home Park was a 2-1 victory for Cheltenham.  Former Pilgrim Steve MacLean had given the visitors a first half lead, Juvhel Tsoumou on loan from Preston at the time equalised for the Pilgrims in the second half, before Marlon Pack scored the winning goal straight from the re-start. This fixture also saw goalkeeper Romain Larrieu retire from professional football after serving 12 years with the club, making 292 appearances in a green shirt.          

One player who John Sheridan will be without, for the visit of Cheltenham Town to Home Park, is captain Conor Hourihane, the Irish midfielder was booked for the tenth time in Easter Monday’s fixture against York City. The 22-year old will now serve a two match ban, the fixtures that’ll he’ll miss will be Cheltenham’s visit to Home Park on 6^th April and Argyle’s trip to Burton Albion the following week on 12^th April. Another midfielder who looks very doubtful for this encounter is Swindon loanee Lee Cox.  The central midfielder suffered a shoulder injury in the first half of the Devon Derby last Saturday and had to be replaced at the start of the second half; Cox did not take any part in the Easter Monday’s defeat to York City.  Cheltenham’s Russ Penn is look set to return to the squad, for the trip to Plymouth, after being rested in last week’s fixture against Northampton.  Harry Hooman remains sidelined for the Robins through a long-term injury.    

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Curtis Nelson, Maxime Blanchard, Anthony Charles, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Onismor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Luke Young, Joe Bryan, Paris Cowan-Hall, Andres Gurrieri, Ronan Murray, Isaac Vassell, Jared Sims, Reuben Reid, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe, 

Doubtful: - Lee Cox (shoulder injury), Warren Feeney (ankle ligament injury),

Unavailable: - Conor Hourihane (suspended), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury), Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth Town).

York City vs Plymouth ARGYLE-Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle are once again on the road heading for York City on Easter Monday after a 1-0 victory at Home Park in the Devon Expressway Derby against Exeter City on Easter Saturday.    

A fixture on Bank Holiday Monday is not so important than York City vs Plymouth Argyle.  With both teams fighting against relegation to the Conference Premier, each point that is picked up is so significant for that spot in Npower League Two next season.  After York City’s goalless draw at the Memorial Ground home of Bristol Rovers it moved them up one place to 23^rd place just above the relegation line.  For Plymouth Argyle, the Pilgrims moved to 20^th place following 3 points after the only goal in the game came in the first half from Jason Banton to win the game. 

With Plymouth Argyle winning three consecutive games in a row home to Fleetwood, away at Southend and at home to Exeter City; can they make it four wins in a row away at York since 2008? The four successive victories that season were against Leicester City, Barnsley, Southampton and Burnley.  Plymouth Argyle finished 10^th in the Championship that season under Paul Sturrock. Since the appointment of former Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington as York City manager on the 4^th March 2013, two days after sacking Gary Mills, the club have drawn two and lost three games. So on Easter Monday the players will be looking for their first victory under their current manager.   

The teams have met once already this current season at Home Park on December 8^th 2012.  The result of this fixture was a victory for Argyle winning 2-0.  Since this fixture both clubs have named new managers.  Former York City manager Gary Mills was first appointed the Minstermen’s boss on 13^th October 2010 after leaving fellow conference premier club Tamworth.  York City were promoted back to Npower League Two last season, the 2011-12 season, after reaching the play-off final at Wembley against Luton, winning 2-1. City was back in Npower League Two after an 8 year absence.  Following 11 games without gaining 3 points Gary Mills was sacked on 2^nd March 2013. Two days after his sacking Nigel Worthington was appointed the new manager.  As for Argyle, Carl Fletcher was relieved of the job on New Year’s Day after a 2-1 defeat to Bristol Rovers.  Formally an Argyle midfielder, Fletcher first took the job on 19^th September 2011 after Peter Reid was sacked the previous day.  Fletcher guided the Pilgrims to League safety that season and was awarded with a one year rolling contract.  Following a run of poor results Fletcher was sacking by Chairman James Brent.  John Sheridan was appointed the Pilgrims manager on 6^th January 2013 on a contract until the end of the season.                      

Following Saturday’s deserved result at Home Park against Exeter City, midfielder Lee Cox, who is on loan from Swindon Town, is doubtful for the trip to York as he suffered a shoulder injury in the first half of the Derby. If the midfielder is unavailable for selection Luke Young will be aiming to make his second start under Sheridan after coming on for the injured Cox at the start of the second half.  A player who is also doubtful for the fixture is defender Anthony Charles; the former Aldershot player suffered a reoccurrence of his groin injury in the 2-1 defeat to Gillingham at the MEMS Preistfield Stadium.  On-loan Sunderland midfielder Adam Reed could make his home debut against Argyle after making his first appearance against Bristol Rovers last Saturday.  Worthington could also welcome back striker Michael Coulson after damaging knee ligaments in October.  Midfielder Scott Kerr is doubtful for the fixture through a calf strain.         

Available: -  Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Curtis Nelson, Maxime Blanchard, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Onismor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young, Andres Gurrieri, Ronan Murray, Paris Cowan-Hall, Joe Bryan, Jared Sims, Isaac Vassell, Nick Chadwick, Reuben Reid, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe, 

Doubtful: - Lee Cox (shoulder injury)

Unavailable: - Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth), Warren Feeney (lack of match fitness), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury), Anthony Charles (reoccurrence of groin injury)   

Plymouth ARGYLE vs Exeter City-Match Report

Plymouth Argyle 1

Jason Banton 45

 

Exeter City 0

 

 

Plymouth Argyle move further away from the relegation zone after Crystal Palace loanee scored the winning goal against Exeter City in the Devon Expressway Derby at Home Park.   

In John Sheridan’s first ever Devon Derby, he had made two changes to the side that were victorious at Southend United 11 days previous.  After a recurrence of his groin injury in that fixture Anthony Charles was replaced by Paul Wotton in central defence alongside Guy Branston.  The other change to the squad came in midfield where Paris Cowan-Hall was replaced by Argentine winger Andres Gurrieri. There was also a change on the substitute bench with Sheridan welcoming back Curtis Nelson after two months out with a groin injury. For the visiting team Paul Tisdale made two changes to the side after the 4-1 home win against Capital One Cup Finalists Bradford City, Tommy Doherty came into midfield dropping former Argyle Apprentice Jake Gosling to the substitute bench.  The other change from Exeter City came with Jamie Cureton coming in the side with John O’Flynn also dropping to the bench. Former Pilgrim Mark Molesley was also in the side to face his former team-mates after he signed a contract until the end of the season, after being released by his former employers AFC Bournemouth in January.       

Both teams emerged from the tunnel following referee Darren Drysdale to walk out onto the Home Park pitch surrounded by green and white placards, from blocks 1 to 15 created by fans group Forza Verde.  Argyle was to kick off with Conor Hourihane and Lee Cox in a 1pm kick-off at Home Park. The visitors Exeter City started the brighter side having long stages with the football.  Not long after this Exeter had their first sight on goal with 20 goals this season Jamie Cureton firing high and wide of Jake Coles goal in front of a very packed out Devonport.  Soon after that attack Plymouth Argyle saw their first shot on target saved comfortably by goalkeeper Artur Krysiak, Jason Banton had intercepted a loose ball by Exeter and fired it straight into the hands of the goalkeeper.  Argyle were soon getting into the game competing against City with both team eager to add to their points to guide themselves further away from relegation and closer to the Npower League Two automatic promotion places.  The main threats for the Pilgrims were Bristol City loanee, Joe Bryan, Crystal Palace loanee Jason Banton and Andres Gurrieri all attacking players who have all played a huge part in recent games under Sheridan. Andres Gurrieri had nearly given the Pilgrims the lead on the 20minute mark after he powerfully drove a shot millimetres wide of the near post from outside the penalty area on the right.  Ten minutes later the Pilgrims were creating more and more opportunities to open the scoring.  After being awarded one corner Argyle were awarded three more in quick succession with wingers Bryan and Gurrieri causing chaos in the penalty area.  From this little spell the scores were still level. Following his goal at Roots Hall Reuben Reid was full of spirit holding the ball up under huge amounts of pressure from the defenders.  Jason Banton had many chances to create an opening to score by cutting in from right wing position, but the City players knew what he was capable off and defended solidly as a unit.  With three minutes additional time added onto the 45, Jason Banton had given Argyle the lead; he controlled a pass from Captain Conor Hourihane and skipped around the defender with his trickery.  From around 25 yards out he unleashed a magnificent shot to the far right hand post past Artur Kryisak and into the back of the net sending the Home Park faithful totally wide.  Soon after that goal the referee blew for half time.         

Half Time Argyle 1-0 Exeter

Both managers had made changes at the start of the second half.   Midfielder Lee Cox had to be replaced by Plymouth born Luke Young after he landed on his shoulder awkwardly in the first half.  As for Exeter City, Jake Gosling, who knocked Argyle out of the FA Cup by his goal for Dorchester, was recalled to the squad to replace Tommy Doherty in midfield for the start of the second half.  Not long after the re-start Argyle’s current top scorer Jason Banton had nearly added to his goal tally.  From a defensive mistake by Danny Coles inside the penalty area Banton quickly made sure the ball was his and shot straight at the goalkeeper. From conceding a very late goal in added time of the first half, Exeter City were enthusiastic for an equaliser and so they decided on the long ball.  The central defenders Paul Wotton and Guy Branston defended solidly to deny City’s top scorer Jamie Cureton from scoring.  Exeter’s second substitution of the afternoon came with John O’Flynn replacing Lawson D’Ath to booster there attacking threat.  Minutes after a cross was whipped with pase across the penalty area the ball finally fell to Cureton, free inside the box, side footed it wide of the post flat footing goalkeeper Jake Cole. From being awarded a few kick outside the penalty area Gurrieri curled a shot wide of the near post.  Half way through the second half John Sheridan made his final two substitutions bringing on Paris Cowan-Hall and Ronan Murray replacing goal scorer Jason Banton and Andres Gurrieri.  The last 15 minutes was very nervy for the fans as Exeter pushed for a very last equaliser.  In this Argyle were forced deeper and deeper inside their own half to defend Exeter’s long ball tactics.  Whenever Argyle had cleared there lines the ball would come straight back at them and so they had to defend extremely well.  It seemed as if the forth official was taken ages to hold up the board to indicate how many minutes were added on, three minutes it was.  In this time Exeter was forcing everyone forward to attack, but once the Pilgrims got hold of the ball they slowed the game down.  The Greens was awarded a throwing in the ding minutes of additional time, Ronan Murray didn’t have time to take it as the referee blew for full time.  Home Park went wild after winning their third consecutive game.

Full Time Argyle 1-0 Exeter City                                                                                                                                        

Plymouth Argyle has taken 4 points out of a possible 6 from their nearest rivals Exeter City.

 

 

Argyle (4-5-1): 1 Jake Cole; 4 Maxime Blanchard, 15 Paul Wotton, 5 Guy Branston, 14 Onismor Bhasera; 27 Andres Gurrieri (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 76), 6 Conor Hourihane (capt), 19 Jason Banton (28 Ronan Murray 72), 10 Lee Cox (8 Luke Young h-t), 18 Joe Bryan; 24 Reuben Reid. Substitutes (not used): 9 Nick Chadwick, 17 Curtis Nelson, 20 Rene Gilmartin, 29 Tyler Harvey.

Exeter City (4-5-1): 1 Artur Krysiak; 16 Kevin Amankwaah, 6 Danny Coles, 5 Pat Baldwin, 3 Craig Woodman; 14 Tommy Doherty (32 Jake Gosling h-t), 28 Mark Molesley (22 Jimmy Keohane 71), 4 Scot Bennett, 25 Lawson D'Ath (19 John O'Flynn 59), 11 Arron Davies; 12 Jamie Cureton. Substitutes (not used): 2 Steve Tully, 21 Guillem Bauza, 24 Rhys Evans (gk), 37 Jordan Moore-Taylor.

Booked: Bennett 90, Coles 90.

Attendance: 13,251 (1,635 away)

Referee: Darren Drysdale.



Plymouth ARGYLE vs Exeter City-Match Preview

Following the postponement of last Saturday’s fixture, away at Chesterfield, Plymouth Argyle return to Home Park to face Devon Rivals Exeter City in a 1pm kick-off.   

For the 96^th meeting between the two clubs John Sheridan will exploit in his first ever involvement in a Devon Derby, after being appointed the successor of former Argyle manager and player Carl Fletcher on 6^th January 2013 after his sacking of January 1^st. John Sheridan is not the only one that will experiment the Devon Derby in full flow, Jason Banton, Joe Bryan, Lee Cox, Ronan Murray and Rueben Reid are all players who have been brought into the club on loan from Championship and League One clubs by Sheridan, and will playing a huge part in the fixture that will promise to attract a huge crowd to Home Park.

The Devon clubs have met once already this present season at St James Park, home of Exeter City in the 1-1 draw on Saturday 15^th December 2012.  Bristol-born Joe Lennox equalised for the Pilgrims with a spectacular shot into the top left hand corner on 72 minutes after Liam Sercombe had given the home side the lead in the first half. Since this fixture there have been changes to the Pilgrims squad and management staff.  Darren Purse, Mark Molesley, Joe Lennox, Rhys Griffiths and Robbie Williams have all departed the club to start a new chapter in there footballing careers.  However one ex- Pilgrim will return to the club, Mark Molesley signed for the Pilgrims on loan from AFC Bournemouth earlier this season and participated in the Devon Derby at St James Park in December.  Following 4-years in Dorset with AFC Bournemouth Molesley was released by the club in January after spending time out on loan to Aldershot and Plymouth Argyle.  On January 18^th 2013 Exeter City signed the attacking midfielder on a contract until the end of the 2012-13 season.  There has also been a change of manager since the last meeting.  John Sheridan is now in charge of the Pilgrims after Carl Fletcher was relieved of the job earlier this year after a run of poor results.   

John Sheridan will still be without defender Anthony Charles on Saturday after he was substituted against Argyle’s 2-0 victory over Southend after he suffered a recurrence of his groin injury.  The manager will also be without Jamie Richards after the defender signed on-loan to Weymouth until the end of the season on Thursday.  Defender Curtis Nelson will be aiming to make it back into the match-day squad after recovering from a groin injury, which has kept him out of the squad for two months. Midfielder Jamie Lowry will be out until next season after suffering an ankle injury that has kept him out for the past few games.  Striker Reuben Reid will be available for selection for John Sheridan after he had his loan deal extended until the end of the season. For Exeter City, Paul Tisdale will be without Liam Sercombe and formally of Argyle Alan Gow for Saturday’s game at Home Park after they both have ankle injuries. Both Matt Oakley and Tommy Doherty will also be missing through shoulder and back injuries.  Anton Rodgers son of Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be looking to make his first start in an Exeter Jersey after he signed on loan from Brighton.                 

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Curtis Nelson, Onismor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Luke Young, Conor Hourihane, Lee Cox, Ronan Murray, Joe Bryan, Paris Cowan-Hall, Andres Gurrieri, Jared Sims, Isaac Vassell, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe, Reuben Reid.      

Unavailable: - Jamie Richards (on loan to Weymouth), Anthony Charles (groin injury), Warren Feeney (short of match fitness), Jamie Lowry (out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury)

Chesterfield vs Plymouth ARGYLE-Match Preview

Plymouth Argyle manager John Sheridan will return to familiar surroundings when the Pilgrims visit Chesterfield on Saturday for their second of two consecutive away games.

Sheridan will revisit Chesterfield where he enjoyed three successful seasons as manager from the years of 2009 to 2012 after being appointed on June 9^th 2009 on a three year contract.  During his spell at the club he won two trophies, with the first one coming in his second season in charge as The Spireites won promotion to Npower League One. The celebrations started after a 3-1 victory over play-off chasing Gillingham in the last fixture of the season.  The following season guaranteed even more festivities when the club reached the Johnstone Paint Trophy Final held at Wembley against Swindon.  After being victorious at Wembley the club were relegated back to Npower League Two after finishing in 22^nd place.  The following season ended with Sheridan leaving the club on 28^th August 2012 after a result of two points from three games at the start of the season.

Following Tuesday’s Npower League Two results the Pilgrims will go into the fixture full of confidence after a 2-0 victory over Southend United at Roots Hall with goals from Paul Wotton and Reuben Reid.  However for Chesterfield they will be aiming to re-group after a 2-1 defeat at Plainmoor against Torquay, who were winning their first fixture under interim manager Alan Knill.  As the League Two table stands Chesterfield sit in 12^th position on 53 points while the Pilgrims are placed in 20^th place on 43 points.  Plymouth Argyle is one of four teams placed on 43 points with only goal difference separating the teams.

John Sheridan will be without Anthony Charles when Argyle take on Chesterfield on Saturday.  After recovering from a groin injury he returned to the squad to play Southend United on Tuesday. From suffering a recurrence of his groin injury on Tuesday he will miss Saturday’s encounter. Scorer from Tuesday’s game replaced Charles and is set to start the fixture alongside Guy Branston in central defence.  Captain Conor Hourihane will have to be extremely carefully not to earn himself one more yellow card if he wants to participate in next Saturday’s Devon Derby at Home Park.  The Irish midfield is one yellow card away from 10 bookings and an automatic two match suspension. As for Chesterfield they will be without defender Nathan Smith who will miss the rest of the current season with a foot injury.   He suffered the injury in the first half of their away win at Oxford United last Saturday. Scans had revealed that Smith had broken a bone in the top of his foot.                               

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Jamie Richards, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Onismor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Lee Cox, Luke Young, Conor Hourihane, Andres Gurrieri, Ronan Murray, Isaac Vassell, Joe Bryan, Jared Sims, Paris Cowan-Hall, Matt LeCointe, Tyler Harvey, Nick Chadwick, Reuben Reid.  

Doubtful: - Curtis Nelson (groin injury), Warren Feeney (ankle ligament injury).

Unavailable: - Anthony Charles (groin injury), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury)

Southend United vs Plymouth ARGYLE-Match Preview

Following Saturday’s victory over Fleetwood Town at Home Park, Plymouth Argyle visit Roots Hall on Tuesday evening for the first of two consecutive games away from home.

Goals from Paul Wotton and Crystal Palace loanee Jason Banton ensured Argyle all three points on Saturday against play-off chasing Fleetwood Town, as the Pilgrims rose out of the relegation zone on goal difference.  The players now travel to Johnstone Paint Trophy finalists Southend United on Tuesday evening, a rearranged game from Saturday 19^th January where this fixture was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. 

Earlier in the season Argyle welcomed Paul Sturrock’s Southend United to Home Park, a fixture which finished in a draw after then on loan from Burnley Alex MacDonald, had given the Pilgrims a 50minute lead.  Paul Sturrock returned to a familiar hotspot in the South West after he had enjoyed two spells as Plymouth Argyle manager in the years of 2000-2004 and 2007-2009.  In this fixture the Aberdeenshire born former player and current manager faced one player who he signed himself whilst he was the Argyle manager in 2009.  This player was fans-favourite Carl Fletcher, after he was appointed player-manager in September 2011; the day after Peter Reid was sacked by then acting-chairman Peter Ridsdale after defeat at Roots Hall against Argyle opponents this evening.

Whilst visiting Roots Hall, Plymouth Argyle will face some very memorable faces that have all played for the Devon club.  Although he is ruled out of this fixture due to an Achilles injury former Argyle defender and current United captain Chris Barker represented the Greens from 2008-2010 making 54 appearances for the club. Barker moved to Southend on August 5^th 2010 to join up with Sturrock who had brought him down to Plymouth in 2008 signing on a 3-year contract from Queens Park Rangers.   Another former player who is on the books at Southend is Plympton-born midfielder Ryan Leonard.  During his time at Argyle he made one appearance for his home-town club, during this time he also spent time on-loan at Western-Super-Mare and Tiverton Town.  After being released at the end of the 2010-11 season by Argyle he went on trial at Southend.  During his time on trial he had impressed Paul Sturrock enough to offer him a one-year contact with an option for a further year.  So far Leonard has made 35 appearances scoring two goals. One noticeable face that has also played a huge part in Argyle's most successful seasons is current Southend player-coach Graham Coughlan. The 38 year old enjoyed 4 triumphant seasons as a Pilgrim making 177 appearances scoring 25 goals.  During his time in Devon he was the Division Three top goal scorer, he then followed that by being named Division Two player of the year in the clubs most successful years.  In the 2001-2002 season he had seen his named featured in PFA Division Three team of the year.  These players have all played under Paul Sturrock twice formerly at Plymouth Argyle and now currently at Southend United.

John Sheridan will look to name a un-change side when his squad of players walk out onto the Roots Hall pitch this evening. Anthony Charles is doubtful for the fixture through a slight groin injury that he picked up during the 2-1 defeat to Gillingham.  Implicating on this it will look set that Guy Branston and Paul Wotton will continue to partner each other at the heart of the Pilgrims defence if Charles is still struggling with injury.  Southend however have players facing late fitness tests ahead of the game, Defender Ryan Creswell missed the match against Torquay at the weekend due to a calf injury and will under-go a late fitness examination. Luke Prosser will serve the second of a two match suspension after he collected his 10^th yellow card.  Both Chris Barker and Mark Phillips will miss the Npower League Two encounter through an Achilles injury and a broken toe.  Striker Barry Corr is looking to make a return after missing the Torquay contest at Roots Hall through illness.            

Available: - Jake Cole, Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Durrell Berry, Maxime Blanchard, Jamie Richards, Guy Branston, Paul Wotton, Onismor Bhasera, Jason Banton, Lee Cox, Conor Hourihane, Luke Young Andres Gurrieri, Paris Cowan-Hall, Joe Bryan, Ronan Murray, Jared Sims, Isaac Vassell, Reuben Reid, Nick Chadwick, Tyler Harvey, Matt LeCointe.   

Doubtful: - Anthony Charles (slight groin inury)

Unavailable: - Curtis Nelson (groin injury), Warren Feeney (ankle ligament injury), Jamie Lowry (ankle injury)

 

Plymouth ARGYLE vs Fleetwood Town-Match Report

Plymouth Argyle move out of the relegation zone on goal difference after a 2-1 victory over Fleetwood Town in a ‘must-win’ fixture in Npower League Two.  

Manager John Sheridan had named an unchanged side that was included in the goalless draw against Bradford on Tuesday evening.  Veteran Plymouthian Paul Wotton was to partner Guy Branston in central defense for the second consecutive game after Anthony Charles failed to make the squad of 18 through injury.  However there was a change on the substitute bench, Sheridan welcomed back Irish born goalkeeper Rene Gilmartin after he recovered from an hamstring injury which he sustained in the Accrington Stanley fixture which was played at Home Park on Saturday January 26^th 2013.  The visitors to Plymouth Fleetwood Town had made two changes to their side which was victorious at Accrington Stanley winning 3-0 on Tuesday evening.  Both of the changes from Fleetwood’s manager Graham Alexander came in midfield.  The first of the changes to the side was in central midfield with Ryan Crowther coming into the starting 11 with Anthony Barry dropping to the substitute bench.  The second of the changes came in the left midfield position with Paul McKenna replacing Gareth Evens. 

On the afternoon of Armed Forces Day at Home Park both team emerged from the tunnel following the referees for the afternoon, who have all served in the Armed Forces. After the match-day ball was delivered by a current service member, Fleetwood, who were making their first ever visit to Home Park, were ready to kick off and attack the Devonport End.  The fixture started very slowly with neither team getting into the rhythm of the ‘must-win’ fixture for Argyle.  It was the visitors who were finding their feet in the game at Home Park with the first shot on target.  Jon Parkin known as ‘The Beast’ shot from long range from outside the penalty area, to force goalkeeper Jake Cole into a low save down to his right, in front of the home supporters. This came after Argyle’s Andres Gurrieri had fired a shot from long distance, it did not trouble the goalkeeper as the shot had taken a deflection and gone out for the Pilgrims first corner of the afternoon.  On the 25minute just over the half way mark in the first half Paul Wotton had given the Green Army something to cheer about after slotting away a penalty straight down the middle of the goal-mouth in front of the Barn Park Stand.  The penalty was awarded to Plymouth after a corner had been delivered on the right side.  The referee for the afternoon Trevor Kettle had pointed to the spot after ‘The Beast’ Jon Parkin had fouled Captain Conor Hourihane, who ended up on the floor from the resulting corner.  After much discussion Paul Wotton was given the go ahead from manager John Sheridan to take the penalty, and so he did, powerfully slotting the ball straight down the middle with the opposing goalkeeper Scott Davies not having a chance to save as he dived down to his right.  Argyle 1-0 Fleetwood Town.  After Wotton had given his beloved hometown team the lead against the Lancashire side, Argyle were very slopping in possession of the football surrendering possession to Fleetwood under no pressure under the opposition players.  On loan Crystal Palace winger was Argyle only threat in that time but soon after he had doubled the lead for Argyle 6minutes before half time.  After nicking the ball of off Fleetwood’s midfielder Paul McKenna down the right wing, he used all of his experience from his previous clubs to cut inside and set free a magnificent shot that hit the back of the net side the top left hand corner from outside the penalty area.  Argyle 2-0 Fleetwood.  Minutes before the half time whistle was blown goalkeeper Jake Cole had made a fantastic save to deny Junior Brown from a consolation goal from           close range after Ryan Crowther had crossed the ball in. Jake Cole saved extremely well after the players were caught out of position as Cole saved down to his left to put it out for a corner so that the players could re-group. After 1 minute of additional time had been played the referee signaled for half time.  

Half Time Argyle 2-0 Fleetwood.  

During the half time break the Armed Forces band HMS Drake were out to entertain and so were the team that faced Santos at Home Park in a friendly 40years ago winning 3-2. After the lap of honor it was time to welcome back both team, Argyle and Fleetwood onto the Home Park pitch.  The teams were un-changed for the start of the second half with Argyle re-starting the fixture with Captain Conor Hourihane and his midfield partner Lee Cox.  Fleetwood Town had emerged after half time as a much better team attacking at every opportunity they could.  Fleetwood were shooting from every ankle as well to score a consolation goal.  This goal nearly came from a long range effort from Ryan Crowther, Jake Cole saved comfortably in goal.  The Argyle defense was forced to defending on numerous occasions forcing Guy Branston and Paul Wotton to intercept many crosses that were crossed into the penalty area.  Half way through the second half Fleetwood had a glorious opportunity to score.  From a Alan Goodall’s cross on the right Jamie McGuire headed wide a header as he was unmarked by the Argyle players. When Plymouth were to attack Banton was the only real threat down on the wing with Reuben Reid on loan from League One Yeovil Town, central in the attack to hold the ball up.  With every ball that was to come from the defense straight through to the attacks Reid was caught off-side on some occasions as he was on the shoulder of the last man in Fleetwood’s defense.  John Sheridan made his first two substitutions of the afternoon by bringing on both Paris Cowan-Hall and Nick Chadwick in place of Andres Gurrieri and Reuben Reid with 20minutes remaining in the encounter.  With minutes of these substitutions Fleetwood had capitalized on a misplaced header by Guy Branston.  David Ball had got round the back of defender Maxime Blanchard to shot from a very acute angle from a cross to the near post.  In intense pressure by the visitors Argyle stood tall and defended extremely.  With under 5minutes remaining referee Trevor Kettle produced a red card for Paul McKenna the Fleetwood midfielder after he had fouled Paris Cowan-Hall on the right wing.  From picking up an earlier yellow card in the game the referee had no chose to issue another yellow card to the player who walked of and went for an early bath.  From the red card that he had picked up, he will now miss there next fixture which is against Barnet at Underhill on Tuesday evening.  With four additional minutes added onto the 90 Fleetwood were putting Argyle under huge amounts of pressure to earn a draw.  In this added time Jon Parkin was fortunate not to see red after he had pushed Banton to the floor with Banton just being fouled; Parkin moments earlier had just been shown a yellow card. Argyle was able to see the game out with composure and belief to lift themselves out of the relegation zone on goal difference.

Full Time Argyle 2-1 Fleetwood Town.       

 

Argyle (4-5-1): 1 Jake Cole; 4 Maxime Blanchard, 15 Paul Wotton, 5 Guy Branston, 14 Onsimor Bhasera; 27 Andres Gurrieri (7 Paris Cowan-Hall 72), 10 Lee Cox, 19 Jason Banton, 6 Conor Hourihane (capt), 18 Joe Bryan; 24 Reuben Reid (9 Nick Chadwick 72). Substitutes (not used): 2 Durrell Berry, 8 Luke Young, 20 Rene Gilmartin, 28 Ronan Murray, 29 Tyler Harvey.

Booked: Wotton 46

Fleetwood Town (4-4-2): 1 Scott Davies; 2 Shaun Beeley, 6 Nathan Pond, 25 Robert Atkinson, 13 Alan Goodall (5 Jean-Michel Fontaine 89); 12 Junior Brown, 18 Jamie McGuire (11 Barry Nicholson 70), 24 Ryan Crowther (32 Gareth Evans 68), 37 Paul McKenna; 26 David Ball, 9 Jon Parkin. Substitutes (not used): 4 Anthony Barry, 10 Jamille Matt, 15 Conor McLaughlin, 33 David Lucas (gk).

Booked: McKenna 45, Parkin 88

Sent-off: McKenna 85

Referee: Trevor Kettle

Attendance: 6,776 (62 away)