A Sprinkle of Opinion

NORTHERN-based Argyle fan Peter Cropper gives us an insight into his trip to Spotland...

The trip to sunny East Lancashire was disappointing.

Although Argyle have been on a good run, this was a tough assignment – Rochdale’s home record is impressive and they recently knocked Leeds out of the cup. Being reduced to ten men early in the second half made a tough assignment very much more difficult.

The Green Army assembled in optimistic mood as usual but not with the same numbers as at Spotland last April. Pre match and half time entertainment included sprinklers – in Lancashire in winter? (In Lancashire at any time of year?). Which part of the pitch was dry after six weeks’ almost non stop rain? The PA announcer might have explained but even I, fluent in Lancastrian, couldn’t tell what he was saying. Perhaps Santa had brought the sprinklers – or are ‘Dale sponsored by United Utilities?

Memo to Santa for eleven months’ time – new loudspeakers are required.

The way in which Rochdale easily cut through Argyle’s defence for the first goal rather set the tone. They were slick, quick and skilful throughout – a good side who, I believe, will be promoted.

There was nothing wrong with Argyle’s spirit and work ethic, but sometimes you just have to hold your hands up and conceded that the better team won. Certainly the second and third goals were worthy of winning any game.

As I write this, with two of the next three games at home, we hope Argyle’s ascent of the table can be maintained.