Building Blocks

ARGYLE defender Niall Canavan is a Pilgrim on a mission, as we look to build on the win at Crewe with more success at home to Colchester in Sky Bet League Two.

After a dominant first-half display at Crewe, Niall and his defensive colleagues had to battle hard in the second period to earn themselves an opening-day clean sheet.

Niall was in a buoyant mood with regards to the victory and was happy to get off to a good start.

“I think we all know we’ve had some bad starts in the recent years, but it’s a nice feeling to tick off the first three points and a clean sheet,” he said. “As away performances go, you can’t ask for much more.”

Saturday’s game against Sky Bet League Two opponents Colchester United will give the Home Park faithful a first glimpse of manager Ryan Lowe’s 3-5-2 formation in a competitive fixture on their own patch.

Canavan has brief experience playing in a back three during his time with Scunthorpe United, although injury unfortunately meant that his game-time was limited.

“I enjoy it,” said Niall. “It’s a system that needs work, but we’ve had that, and we’ve had to play with direction. I think if you ask any of the boys, they are very clear on their role and what their job is.”

With a near sell-out expected for Saturday, the support of the Green Army is as a strong as ever. This was demonstrated during our pre-season tour, in which hundreds of dedicated supporters travelled to La Manga in Spain for our fixture with AFC Wimbledon.

Over 5,000 attended our home friendly with Bristol Rovers and the kick-off time for our tussle with Truro City was pushed back due to a huge number of the Argyle faithful heading to Treyew Road.

Our huge support doesn’t go unnoticed, and Niall was keen to praise the fans for their dedication. He said: “I’ve never had a pre-season game delayed for crowd congestion. Ever. That just shows the support we’ve got, and the lads are very aware of the support we’ve had. The new boys are a bit taken aback by it at times.

“It’s looking like it’s going to be a good atmosphere [on Saturday]. Hopefully, we can get the right result and send everybody home happy.”

Come On You Greens.