Reuben's Rebound

REUBEN Reid bounced back from a self-confessed “shocking” performance to spearhead Argyle’s 3-2 Boxing Day victory at Sky Bet League 2 leaders Oxford United...

...and then paid tribute to new strike partner Caolan Lavery.

Reuben scored twice to take his tally for the season to 11 after on-loan Sheffield Wednesday forward Caolan had opened the scoring for the second game in succession.

The pair have now netted all five Argyle goals in the two Christmas-week games, with Reuben’s three heading Caolan’s pair.

“Obviously it’s nice to be scoring and setting up goals when you play,” said Reuben.

“I was absolutely shocking against Bury, and I know, in my mind, the reasons for it, but that’s how football works sometimes.

“Thankfully, today, the performance for me, personally, was more for the team, putting in the hard work. It paid off, with two goals the reward.

“I had a really nice feeling after Christmas Day, which I had with my family, coming up against a decent side that is doing well in the league to get three points and push us up the table.”

Reuben, who is in his third spell at Home Park on a season-long loan from Yeovil, is clearly enjoying playing alongside Caolan.

He said: “In my mind, since I came back, Argyle have needed a striker who stretches the play, a willing runner to go in behind. Sometimes you need that player to affect the back four; no matter what, he is looking to stretch the play and get in behind.

“I think Caolan is that man. He also has proved in training, he’s really good in front of goal, as well. It was another great finish from him.

“It gives defenders something to think about – he might not get the ball or be put in on goal, but, when you are stretching the play, the game opens up and other players can get involved. It’s a selfless role but, if he can time his run and get in, he can get goals as well.”