We Go Again

TWO late goals in the swirling wind at Fleetwood Town were enough to condemn Argyle to just a third defeat of 2019.

It was a difficult day for everyone to perform and Argyle defender Joe Riley admitted the wind was a major challenge, almost as much as tracking Fleetwood’s lively front-pairing of Paddy Madden and Ched Evans.

A point looked to be a satisfactory outcome until Fleetwood struck twice in the space of three minutes and the Pilgrims must now turn their focus on a massive Westcountry derby against Bristol Rovers on Saturday, with Riley desperate to show his real form after an injury-hampered start to his Argyle career.

“We had similar conditions at Rochdale and managed to get the win there, but we’re bitterly disappointed not to do the same here [at Fleetwood],” said Riley.

“The wind was swirling everywhere, you couldn’t say it was blowing one way, just everywhere. It was the same for both teams and difficult for defenders when you’re going up for headers.

“We were disappointed with the second half and the first goal was vitally important. They have two of the best strikers in the league and, as a back four, you have to be on your game to mark them. The second goal was very similar to the first one and disappointing for us. We’ve been on a good run but we didn’t really create anything on the day.

“I’ve trained for a number of weeks now and I feel a lot fitter, and better. Hopefully, I can keep it going. I didn’t perform well at the start of the season and it wasn’t easy to give away a penalty in my first game, but I’m hoping to show the Argyle fans what I can do.

“There are a lot of teams involved this year and a very important game [against Bristol Rovers]. We’re feeling very confident at home and our form at home has been terrific.”

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