Fantastic Four

...Jordan Slew used the word ‘fantastic’ seven times in five-and-a-half minutes. 

For the 23-year-old, whose strike was his first in Argyle colours, it really was the mot juste. On 51 minutes, with Argyle trailing to a Jordan Green goal, Slew’s perseverance paid off. Craig Tanner’s clipped cross flew to Slew, and he powered home the equaliser. Goals from Jake Jervis, Nauris Bulvitis and Craig Tanner saw the Pilgrims to a strong, and deserved, victory – a victory Jordan could only describe in one way. 

“In the second half we were fantastic,” he said. “We looked very dangerous in the first half, even when we went in losing. There was not much the staff could really have said to us – we just unlucky. We just carried that on, and got four goals. 

“We dominated the ball, and were dictating the game. We were unlucky to go in 1-0 down. They defended well; it was hard when they dropped deep, and we found it difficult to break them down. 

“It was a great display. Hopefully we can carry that into Saturday’s game."

The only thing to rival the frequency of Jordan’s favourite word may have been his shots-to-minutes ratio. The number eight seemed to be popping up all over the pitch to fire in an effort on goal. 

Slew said: “I was getting a few shots off, and the more I got off, the more confident I was getting. I knew eventually it would come, and I’m glad it did. 

“It was very instinctive. Tanner’s put the ball in box, and I’ve just headed it in. I can’t really remember it! 

“I’m very happy. It’s important for me personally to get off the mark, and for my confidence to get higher. Most important is the team, though, and the display was fantastic.”

Slew has had to be patient in waiting for his chance to open his account. The former Blackburn and Sheffield United man started the EFL Cup tie at Reading, but his league appearances thus far have been limited to late cameos. 

For the Checkatrade Trophy, manager Derek Adams took the opportunity to give several players who have been on the periphery of the first team a chance to shine. Many, including Slew, took the chance gratefully, producing a positive display and result. 

“We knew there were going to be changes,” said Jordan, “but whatever team we put out was going to work hard. Whatever team the gaffer puts out will be a strong team. There are no weaknesses in our team. It’s going to be an exciting year. 

“Some people are disappointed about not starting, but that’s football. We get on with it, work hard in training, and when we get our chance like tonight, we put in a good display performance like that. It’s healthy competition.

“We had a rocky start, but the last four games we have been fantastic. There have been a couple of 1-0s, but they are the things that get you promoted. 

“The gaffer knows me quite well; he’s known me long enough to know how I play and the best position is for me. I can play left, right or I can play central. I’m quite versatile. I enjoyed it on the left, and I was glad to get a goal. 

“Winning is winning, whatever cup it is in. All I want to do is win. That’s the most important thing.

“Whatever team the gaffer chooses to put out, we’re all behind each other, whoever plays. It’s all about the team, and what’s best for it. The gaffer will put out the team he thinks is best, and we’re all behind him. Whatever team he puts out will work hard, and hopefully get the three points on Saturday.  

“The training sessions are the hardest I’ve done at any club I’ve ever been at – but maybe that’s why we look so sharp. I think we did fantastic tonight.”