Lauding Lewi

LEWIS Alessandra turned in a man of the match performance in Argyle's comprehensive victory over one of his former clubs.

The ex-Morecambe attacker scored twice for the Greens in 5-0 thrashing at Home Park, meaning the Pilgrims have scored eleven goals in three games, by eight different goalscorers.

Durrell Berry opened the scoring after just five minutes, and set the tone for a free-flowing display, epitomised by Lewis' outstanding showing.

His brace in the 40th and 90th minutes, came either side of goals from Curtis Nelson (77) and substitute Andres Gurrieri finishing a gorgeous counter-attack three minutes from time.

Alessandra popped up in dangerous positions for the entire game, connecting superbly with front-man Reuben Reid on countless occasions. The away defence simply couldn't handle him, and his performance certainly caught the eye of his manager.

"I don't normally pick out individuals, but I thought Lewis was terrific today," said John Sheridan.

"It's difficult sometimes to play against lads you know from an old club, but I just think his work ethic and his work in and around the box was brilliant."

The 25 year-old caused problems for his former team-mates all afternoon, using his exceptional pace and durability to carve open the Shrimps' defences.

"He does things that you normally see foreign players do - like his body movement. I knew he had this when I had him as a youngster at Oldham Athletic," John continued. "He's probably one of our most consistent players. His work ethic for the team is different-class, and I think the other lads appreciate that.

"He gave me a 9/10 and everyone else gave me 7.5/10. When you've got players giving you that, you've always got a chance of winning."

Lewis has never scored more than ten goals in a season, but the clinical finishing shown in both his goals smacked of a player oozing confidence. 

"Finishing hasn't always been his strong point, but I think you saw with his two goals today that he can do it," said the gaffer.

The Greens are now just two points from the play-offs, and Sheridan is looking to tap into his current form and help the side continue their push for promotion.

"We're in a position where we can give ourselves a good chance. We just need to keep winning games," said John. "We've just got a bit of momentum at the moment, so we've got to carry that on in to the next game.

"There's a long way to go, and I've told them to enjoy it before we get ready for Bristol Rovers on Saturday."