Derbies Count Triple

AFTER achieving a Devon Expressway Derby Double last seasons, manager Derek Adams has a triple reason for seeking victory over Exeter City in this year’s sole encounter between the Westcountry rivals.

Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy group match at Home Park is a chance for the Pilgrims to progress in the competition after an opening-fixture two-point draw over Chelsea’s Under-21s, at the same time effectively knocking City out. 

Then there is the chance for Argyle to extend their winning run over City to three matches, having completed a 5-0 aggregate Sky Bet League Two double over their rivals last season.

Finally – and most importantly for Argyle manager Derek Adams – there is the opportunity, after nine EFL games without a win, to register a morale-boosting victory. 

“We want to win,” he said. “We’re on a run that is difficult and we want to win to give us a bit of confidence. Beating any team at this time is important to us. 

“As a football club, we want to try to progress through the competition – the next game is Exeter, a derby match, and we want to do well. 

“We have had good derby matches over the years against them. We’re looking to get the victory and they are looking to give us the defeat to put us further down in confidence. That’s the nature of the game.”

The match could be given extra piquancy with a number of players taking on their former club. Joel Grant chose to move from Exeter to Argyle in the summer, while City’s Reuben Reid and Hiram Boateng are both ex-Pilgrims. 

Tuesday’s game kicks off at 7.45pm. Pay-on-the-gate facilities are available for home fans, but visiting supporters will be admitted only if they have bought a ticket in advance.