Case For The Defence

...but one of those free-scoring attackers is as impressed with the performances of his defensive team-mates.

Graham Carey netted his third goal in four Sky Bet League 2 matches, six minutes from half-time, to set Argyle on their way to a comfortable 2-0 win at Northampton Town. The Pilgrims’ third victory of the season was rounded off midway through the second half, when Jake Jervis scored what was also his third goal of the campaign – and of the week, following the 4-1 home win over Carlisle United.

“As a team, we are finally settling down and getting the defensive side and offensive side together,” said Irish midfielder Graham, after the victory. “In the second half during the week, I thought we were rock solid, and we continued that today.”

Manager Derek Adams – who had Graham and Jake under him at Ross County – has introduced a flat back four this season, in place of his predecessor’s favoured 3-5-2 system. 

“We’re gradually getting what the manager wants, because the transition from a three at the back to a four is quite difficult,” said Graham. 

“The lads at the back are doing really well at the back and it’s up to us to score goals because we know we can keep clean sheets.

“We started a bit slowly today and we dug ourselves into the game. We know we can outplay any team in this league; once we are solid defensively, going forward, we create a lot of chances and score goals. The important thing today was to play as a team; we did that and it was a great team performance.

“It helps that the fans are so positive. The support we get away from home – and at home – is incredible and one of the reasons I chose to come to this football club. Hopefully, we can all kick on together.

“Especially pleasing is our form away from home. We know we can play well at home and use that pitch to our advantage so, as long as we continue to do the hard work we are doing on the training field, it will play off.”