Joel's Day in the Syun

ARGYLE attacker Joel Grant is looking to make an impact for the Pilgrims - whether it is off the bench or from the starting line-up.

Joel joined the Pilgrims in the summer from Exeter and started the season as a regular in the starting 11, but in recent months has been used more as an impact player from the bench. An injury to centre forward Ryan Taylor has opened a space in the side which Joel filled in Saturday’s draw with Portsmouth. Joel feels like he has learnt a lot off Taylor that he can use to improve his game to help fill in for the injured forward. 

“Ryan has been fantastic,” said Joel. “I personally believe he has been most influential to the way we have been playing; he holds the ball up really well and is good in the air. It is slightly different to myself; I feel I can hold the ball up especially when its waist and below. The aerial game is something I need to work on, I’ve been watching him quite a lot and it’s a chance for me. You never know who’s starting, but it is a chance for me if I do play to step in and do it my way.

“You learn everyday in training and games. Ryan especially is a player that I think has been instrumental and I have been watching him. I feel like I know his game and playing alongside him makes a massive difference as he does really hold the ball up. That’s something I will try to do if I do play: hold the ball up for the team and maybe stretch in behind a little bit more than he would. Just trying to do what he’s been doing, in my own way.

"We can get the ball into the two number 10’s – Graham (Carey) and Ruben (Lameiras) - who can do their damage closer to the goal. Particularly the Portsmouth game, I didn’t feel like we got close enough to the opponent’s goal for those two to work their magic. When those two are on the ball I know if I can time my run they will find me.”

Argyle face a tough test on Saturday as they travel to Sixfields to play Northampton Town in a game both teams will be looking to win. With temperatures rising this week, Joel knows the heat will be on despite the Cobblers league position.  

“Every game in this league is tough no matter who you’re playing,” said Joel. “The teams we are playing against all have something to play for and so do we. At the moment we should just concentrate on ourselves like we have been all season and we will be fine. 

“I prefer it when it’s hot and I think that could work to my advantage. The weather is a little bit hotter now so hopefully the pitches will still be in good condition. Each game we have to approach the same way whether its raining, sunny or snowing.”