So Close to a Matt Finish

Antoni Sarcevic’s 41st-minute header gave Argyle an ultimately hard-fought 1-0 victory in which U’s goalkeeper Will Norris made a series of excellent saves, including one from Matty.

“I thought I’d scored on my debut,” said the 22-year-old Scot. “The ’keeper’s made a great save, so fair play to him. When it left my boot, I thought it was going in.

“It’s one of those things. I’m sure I’ll get a goal at some point, but not today.

“All the boys are absolutely buzzing. We came for three points and we have done it. That’s the main objective.”

Matty, who has come to Home Park from Championship side Cardiff City for the remainder of the season, played for just under an hour before he was substituted.

He said: “I enjoyed getting the ball wide. That’s what I like to do, take players on, creating a few chances for the boys. In the second half, we went more defensive, but, in the first half, we dominated them.

“I think that’s why the manager took me off; we were winning and just defending, so I think that was a good choice.

“It’s a bit more of a fight than the Championship, but it was a good feel for me to try to get used to this league.

“I’ve not played at this level, so it was a bit difficult, trying to get used to the game. It was a good run-out for me. I’ve not played many minutes this season, so I should get fitter and fitter for the team.”

Some of the interplay between the Argyle players, including fellow debutant Ryan Taylor, Graham Carey and Sarcevic, was a joy to watch, and the performance helped keep the Pilgrims well in contention for promotion.

“There’s a lot of talent in the team, so hopefully we should do the job by the end of the season,” said Matty.

“The first time you play with others, it is difficult to see how they play but I think that, as every game goes, we will get better as a team.”