He's Derek Adams' Man

Argyle’s Irish talisman played a key role in the Greens notching up their eleventh away win in Sky Bet League 2 this season, taking control of the game after the hour mark. After Mansfield focused some considerable man marking and tactical play around stopping Carey for 65 minutes, the midfielder finally managed to break free and burst into life. 

After winning a free-kick which he then chipped onto the head of Sonny Bradley to head in Argyle’s opener, Carey took on scoring duties himself, curling a wonderful free kick into the top corner to leave his indelible mark on another victory for the Greens. Having previously managed Carey at Ross County, Adams knows exactly the calibre of player he has on his hands.

“Graham Carey is the best player in the league,” said Derek.“There’s no doubt about it. 

“He’s got the ability to play. He’s without doubt the most talented, creative [player]. He’s played in a lot of games this season; a lot of assists, a lot of goals – he is the best player in this league.”

Of course, Carey had the chance to make this sort of impact thanks to other factors – not least the efforts of Argyle’s more defensive-minded players, who kept a sharp and attacking Mansfield team off the score-sheet.

“I thought the back four did really well,” said Adams.“Yann [Songo’o] just in front won his headers and knocked the ball the way he’s facing – that’s what he’s there to do. [David] Fox gave us a bit of guile in there, and Carey’s the one that plays off the front and gives us something extra.

“[Jakub] Sokolik was immense. Start to finish, he won his headers, cleared his lines, and him and [Sonny] Bradley in central defence did really well. Good on the ball, good man-to-man; a thoroughly good performance from him. 

Graham also had further responsibilities placed upon him as two key forward players for Argyle, Matty Kennedy and Antoni Sarcevic, missed the game through injury.

“Matty Kennedy was here; Sarcevic didn’t travel,” said Derek. “He’s back home getting treatment. 

“Matty Kennedy came here and did a bit of stretching before the game. He wasn’t available because he had a slight knock. They’re two very good players we’ve been without today.”