In Support

ARGYLE boss John Sheridan admits that he and the players feel sorry for the Green Army in the wake of a second straight Sky Bet League 2 defeat.

The Pilgrims lost 2-1 at home to Oxford United on Sunday, two days after a 2-0 reverse at Newport County, on Boxing Day.

The latest loss, which came after a 1-0 half-time lead was surrendered, with the Greens down to ten men following Aaron Bentley's sending off, was in front of Home Park's second largest gate of the season.

The crowd of 11,020 was only 400 short of the attendance when Exeter City - who brought 500 more supporters than Oxford - visited for the opening home game of the season.
 
"The lads are down, and we are all down, because of the importance of the game and again a big crowd," said Sheridan.

"I knew it would be a decent crowd, and I just wanted to try and get them a result, after getting soaked at Newport.

"I totally understand. I do not think the crowd can complain with how we played and tried to get something out of the game. I hope they appreciate what the lads did."

The manager is not one to typically single out players for their performances on a whim - and therefore it is testament to excellent performances by midfielders Ollie Norburn and Lee Cox than John Sheridan had some words for them, post-match.

Regarding Ollie, John said: "I thought he was magnificent today. I know he can pass it, and I know he is good on the ball. He played well.

"You do not always have to look good on the eye, and their second goal is a prime example of that. It is not always about looking good.

"But I thought he played well today and worked his socks off and was part of a really good performance. It is difficult in midfield when you are playing a three.

"And Coxy - I thought Coxy was different gravy. We just didn't get the breaks. It's a shame."