Argyle Under-18s travel to Sutton United on Friday afternoon, looking to rectify their opening weekend loss in the EFL Youth Alliance League South.
The Greens suffered defeat to Luton Town last Saturday, but picked up some strong results during pre-season, which will put them in good stead ahead of the trip to South London.
Head Coach Jamie Lowry believes his side can bounce back from their previous performance in the league and credits his side’s reflection and reaction in the preparation over the week.
“I think we were well below our standards that we set ourselves [against Luton],” he told Argyle TV. “There was lots of reflection going into Monday and Tuesday, but the boys were fantastic, and their reaction was great to start the week.
“Going into the game, we will look to put things right. We spoke a lot about how actions speak louder than words - and we said a lot of words - but the actions haven't been put in place yet, so that's why we need to rectify it.
“We wanted to go out and make a statement as they're the previous champions, but that didn't happen. We were quite lacklustre in terms of our competitiveness and one-on-one duels, and conceded some poor goals. Overall, it’s disappointing, but something that we’ve pushed aside now, and we need to move forward.
“The lads have had a really good week with their intensity, fight and competitiveness, but it won’t mean anything if we lose on Friday. We need to take that into the game.”
Last season, Argyle drew 1-1 with Sutton. Harley Sneap put the Greens ahead within a minute of kick-off, but the U’s clawed back and found an equaliser, in an aggressive and physical tie, which Lowry expects more of this season.
He said: “I’m looking for the boys to compete and scrap. It will be a very physical game and they’re a direct team, so it's a perfect chance to bounce back after Luton.
“It’s going to be important who starts the strongest, and the boys must look to play on the front foot, getting on first and second balls direct from free-kicks, and have spells of real trouble. We need to try and get on top of the game, fight and compete, and play our football when we get a chance to get the ball down the floor and play our patterns.
“First and foremost, I need to see the boys competing, fighting, and scrapping, and then our football will take care of itself.”
