WOMEN: Pilgrims Suffer Narrow Defeat

Plymouth Argyle Women went down to a narrow 2-1 defeat against Exeter City Women in the Devon County Cup Final.

Played in glorious sunshine at Newton Abbot’s Coach Road, the Greens made a sluggish start and find themselves 2-0 down after a quickfire double from Esme Kilburn-Thompson. 

Argyle recovered their composure well and put on a much-improved display in the second half, eventually pulling a late goal back through Beth Ireland, but it sadly turned out to be a mere consolation. 

“I was disappointed with the first half, we just didn’t play very well,” said manager Ryan Perks. “Exeter played some good football and didn’t allow us any space or time on the ball. 

“We changed the formation at half-time and asked the girls to give us a bit more fight and desire, and they were brilliant in the second half. We pegged Exeter back but just couldn’t get the equaliser. 

“Beth scored in stoppage time and there was a slightly dubious offside decision against Wensday Wise, but I was just pleased that we had a real go at Exeter.  

“It wasn’t our day but we are all proud of the players, and there will hopefully be plenty more finals to enjoy in the years to come.”