Green and Heard
A RAUCOUS Green Army caught the attention of Argyle manager Derek Adams and his team during and after their 1-1 draw with Shrewsbury Town, driving the team on to a positive result.
A loud and encouraging atmosphere at the Theatre of Greens appeared to inspire the Pilgrims to one of their most positive performances of the season, very nearly ending the undefeated run of the visiting Shrews.
The noise reached fever pitch on 58 minutes, as Graham Carey opened the scoring with a superb 25-yard strike. Shaun Whalley’s equaliser 20 minutes later naturally deflated the atmosphere somewhat, but only temporarily.
The Green Army roared on their side until full time to secure a point and, after the final whistle, the team thanked and applauded the fans for their efforts.
“You see the supporters after the game,” said Derek. “The way they supported the players and showed their appreciation, and the effort they had for 90 minutes today.
“It’s not often you get a home game where you draw 1-1 with a team, and you get your fans staying until the end and supporting your football team.”
A number of players seemed to enjoy the occasion, including goal-scorer Carey. The Irish playmaker began the game in a wide position, but picked up the ball centrally as he crafted a terrific opening goal.
“He’s an individual that can do something out of nothing,” said Adams. “Today was one strike that came from good play from him, but it was out of nothing.
“I think he’s capable of playing in a variety of positions. Out wide, it gives him the license to cut inside and be free. But also he play in a midfield three, and he can play off the front. He’s a versatile player.”
Ahead of Carey, Alex Fletcher embodied the enthusiasm of the supporters with an energetic and dogged display, whilst debutant Toumani Diagouraga gave the Greens strength and poise in midfield.
“You could see the class that he has,” said Derek on Diagouraga. “He made tackles, he passed the ball well. He hasn’t played this season, but he put in a strong performance for his debut.
As for Fletcher, Adams said: “He worked away. He took the ball in well. He was probably unfortunate in the second half not to get a penalty. The player was holding onto him. But he worked extremely hard today; it’s good for him.”
One player consistently putting in excellent performances at the moment is Yann Songo’o – so much so that he kept his place in the centre of defence against the Shrews, despite Sonny Bradley being available for selection.
When asked why Bradley was named as a substitute, Derek said: “Because Yann Songo’o has been excellent.
“He’s been outstanding, Yann. He’s done really well for us. I think that in any team, you want players, when they get their opportunity, to take it. He’s certainly done that.”