Pass the Port

The Welsh side led the Southern Group B game 1-0 at the interval through Jordan Green’s goal midway through the first half, despite having come under heavy Pilgrims’ pressure.

Once Jordan Slew levelled early in the second half with his first goal for the club, an Argyle win never looked in doubt and the margin of victory would have been greater had not Newport goalkeeper Joe Day had such a good evening.

 

As it was, he could not prevent Jake Jervis, Nauris Bulvitis and Craig Tanner from adding to the Pilgrims’ tally, leaving Derek to declare: “We were outstanding from start to finish. 

“The way we passed the ball was exceptional. The chances we created over the 90 minutes were well into double-figures. I was just delighted with the whole team performance. 

“In the first half, Newport defended very deep and we had to work hard to break it down. We were by far the better team in the first half. It was total domination from us. They have scored against the run of play.

 

“We knew that a chance would come and, when that came, we were going to roll over the top of them because the way we were passing and moving, going from side to side, and the performance of the technical players throughout the team.” 

Jordan’s breakthough goal came from a cross by Craig, as all of Argyle’s players caught the eye in front of a crowd of nearly 2,500. 

“There was fantastic power in his header,” said Derek. “It was a good cross and a great header from him. He was dangerous throughout 90 minutes coming in off the side. [David] Goodwillie’s work-rate was tremendous - he should have got a goal tonight; it didn’t really fall for him but he was involved in a couple of the goals. Craig Tanner’s been able to get a goal; Jake Jervis; and [Nauris] Bulvitis gets another one.

 

“I thought our full-backs did exceptionally well, getting forward; our midfield players were good on the eye, as well, and probably the [fans] that have not turned up are disappointed that they have not seen a very good performance. 

“The players’ attitude and application was great.” 

Derek dismissed suggestions that the Checkatrade Trophy was not a priority for the Pilgrims, who now face AFC Wimbledon and Swansea City in their remaining two group matches. 

“I want to go and win,” he said. “I put out a very strong side, [including] players that have already started games for me in the league or the League Cup. It’s important we show respect to the competition.”