ARGYLE Ladies thumped their local rivals Plainmoor Ladies 18-0 in the Devon Cup Quarter Final.
Argyle began the match on the front foot, and in the very first attack Sophie Drake sped down the right, cut inside to shoot, but saw the home keeper foil her effort at the near post. The Pilgrims asserted themselves over the opposition as attack followed attack. They passed the ball around with ease, though not always to the best effect.
The home goal was under constant threat, but a combination of fine saves and indifferent finishing kept the score at 0 - 0 until the 21st minute. Efforts from Leah Brooks, Laura Perrett, Becky Rose, Tash Knapman and Aoife Aherne were all saved or went close.
Plainmoor were finding it difficult to make any impression , as most of the play was condensed into their own half of the pitch.
The goals began flowing from the moment Knapman headed home via a defenders shoulder. She herself netted five times before the break, showing she has the knack of being in the right place at the right time.
The Pilgrims were using the flanks to good effect with Laura Perrett and Sophie Drake supplying the ammunition. The midfield were in total control as Brooks, Rose, Aherne and Parsons dominated. Becky Rose and an unfortunate own goal completed the first half scoring with the Pilgrims in total command.
Three substitutions were made within six minutes of the restart. Impressive defender Leanne Griffiths made way for youngster Charlie Carter, and a couple of minutes later Becky Rose and Tash Knapman were replaced by Jamie Schofield and Rachel Javan.
The onslaught continued throughout the second period as Argyle pushed home their superiority. If they showed signs of slacking, the voices of manager Rhys Sullivan and coach Andy Hughes could be heard from the touchline urging them on again.
Goals came thick and fast despite a sterling effort from the home keeper who pulled off many good saves throughout the match. Hat tricks from Rhianne Parsons and Rachel Javan, a double strike from Sophie Drake, and one each for Jamie Schofield ( a neat back header), Aoife Aherne and tireless Captain Kate Hine, who also hit the bar with a header sealed the win.
The home team were thankful for the final whistle. They left the field in good spirits with heads held high, knowing they had given their all, and played the game fairly.
After the match manager Rhys Sullivan said "I am happy that the players got some much needed match practice today. On a difficult pitch we mostly tried to play a passing game, and that will stand us in good stead for the tough matches ahead. "
Sullivan also gave player of the match to Leah Brooks, who put in a sterling performance in midfield.
