Heart of Midfield

ARGYLE’S 1-1 draw with Burton Albion was more about heart than performances, and John Sheridan believes Bobby Reid’s contribution typified their determined display.

The Pilgrims were put on the ropes by the Sky Bet League 2 leaders after 33 minutes as Kevin Stewart’s long-range effort hit Carl McHugh and found the net, leaving it down to Sheridan’s men to step up and rise to the challenge in the second half. 

Bobby struggled to produce the sort of cultured, stylish performance Argyle fans have seen many times this season, losing possession on some occasions and watching his passes go astray but, much like his teammates, he refused to shy away from the responsibility, constantly attempting to make things happen from midfield. 

“A lot of people didn’t play well today, but what I see in people is if you’re having a bad time, do not be frightened of getting on the ball,” said John. “I saw that in some of my players.”

Bearing many resemblances of a recent home game against Northampton Town, where the Bristol City loanee struggled to affect the game but eventually created a goal for Ryan Brunt, Reid put his errors to one side after 86 minutes and delivered an excellent corner for McHugh to head home and earn his team a point.

Sheridan’s decision to keep the faith in his man paid off, and he knows that having that sort of character will stand the 22-year old in good stead in later years.

“I could’ve taken Bobby off, but I remembered when he was having a bad game against Northampton, and in the last ten minutes he ran the show,” said John.

“I don’t think Bobby played well today at all, but the good thing about him – and I’ve told him this – is that he doesn’t hide. He never hides.

“There’s something about him in that he just keeps going and going, and he’s not afraid to receive things and keep plugging away. That’s the sign of a good player.”