Stadium Review #14 - Molineux

Ground Information: Molineux (Wolverhampton wanderers FC) Capacity 29,400

Appearance: A club that's resisted the urge to go 'bowl' with four distinct separate stands. The space frame looks more 'Mechano' than others using the technology. 3 stands looked highly polished off, but the away entrance had the Norwich 'car park' feel to it. The use of the club crest everywhere is imaginative in some cases. Inside, the high backed stands look intimidating as the away section is very low and shallow. The decision not to fill in the corners works to some supporters' disadvantage (see view section) and they've decided to remove the funny seats next to the South Bank that extend beyond the touch line. 6/10

View: The away stand must be unique among the clubs, as you are on the touch line and not behind the goal, this means you can position yourself right by the halfway line. But the shallowness and length means that the support is spread over a long distance, this has a negative affect on singing and chanting; the Green Army were at a distinct loss. Now those corners. I think anyone who attended should have a refund for being unable to watch the first 20 minutes of the match due to the sun. 5/10

Getting there: Random. Turn left at just before West Bromwich, and battle the ring road. Though as the ground is next to (and below the level of) the ring road - meaning you can see the distinct orange space frame - if you miss it first time, go round again! 6/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Cavenous. As the away end is a side stand, the whole of the lower concourse is given to supporters, it goes on and on with several bars and numerous toilets (which are large as well with strange looking urinals). But no TVs. 7/10

Food and Drink: A Black Country club selling another great Balti pie, but unlike Birmingham, this one did not stand up to the pastry test - the bottom fell off. Outside there were numerous chick wagons selling lots of food from burgers to hot pork rolls. 8/10

Stewarding/Police: Didn't see any West Mildlands police (except for the ASDA shop lifters!). The stewards little dance of leaping up from their stand-side seats when anything controversial happened was very funny. People stood on the back row had a hard time, being constantly told to sit down. 6/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Shop at ASDA. There's a good pub across its car park with a beer garden, and the city centre is through the underpass under the ring road (note that many pubs in the city centre don't allow in away fans). 5/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): They did a lot better than we could in raising an atmosphere, and the Wolves we met at the pub were friendly. But they are let down by the 'fans' that try to attack the away support - one of the official coaches was stoned and several Argyle supporters were threatened. 5/10

Total score: 48/80

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
= Carrow Road (Norwich): 50
= Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
Underhill (Barnet): 49
= St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
= Molineux (Wolves): 48
The Hawthorns (WBA): 46
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41
London Road (Peterbrough): 36

The Laws Association Football

Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 - 2 Plymouth Argyle

In 1863 the FA adopted 14 rules in order to regulate the game of football. These 14 basic rules became the Laws of soccer and were*:

1. The maximum pitch length is 200yds, maximum breadth 100yds, marked with corner posts and a goal defined by posts 8 yds apart
2. The game shall commence with a placed kick from the centre at which opposing players shall not be within 10 yds. After a goal the losing side shall kick off
3. The two sides change ends after each goal
4. A goal is scored when the ball passes between the posts (without being thrown, knocked or carried over)
5. When the ball is in touch the first player to touch the ball shall throw it at right angles back onto the pitch from the point at which the ball left the field.
6. A player is out of play is he is in front of the ball
7. If the ball passes the goal line, if the first player to touch the ball is of the defending team he shall restart with a kick 10 yds from the goal line; if he is of the attacking team, 15 yds from the goal line, opposite where the ball left play
8. If a player makes a fair catch (when the ball is caught after it was last touched by an opponant), he can claim a free kick provided he makes a mark with his heel immediately.
9. A player can run toward his opponant's goal if he makes a fair catch or catches the ball after the first bounce
10. Players may defend their goal from the attacking player controlling the ball by charging, hacking, holding, tripping or wrestling but hold holding and hacking at the same time
11. Tripping or hacking are not permitted, neither is using his hands, elbows to push or hold (except for circumstances in Law 10)
12. Any player shall be allowed to charge if they are both active
13. A player can throw the ball if he makes a fair catch or catches the ball after the first bounce
14. No player shall wear protecting nails, iron plates, or latex in his boots

Today some of those rules seem bizarre. Obviously all handling of the ball has now been outlawed, changing ends now only occurs at the beginning of each half and what happens when the ball is in touch, but the foundations of today's Laws are visable.

Today's Laws, on the face of it, have only increased by 4 to 18. And I would think that most people agree with them (such as a more definitive way of who takes the throw in, and the more recent blooded players leaving and changing kits) But each Law is no longer a single small paragraph, all of them incurring several paragraphs of explaination and running to several pages. So have the FA et al gone too far?

Take the recent offside changes. The offside rule was introduced to stop 'goal mouth sitting' - as seen in schools where players wait by the keeper waiting for a pass - and most people would agree that this is good. The rule was changed recently to allow more goals, as it was felt the Offside was too strict. The trouble is that now many supporters (and some assistant referees) are no longer able to follow the players' movements on the pitch close enough to decide whether they are active or passive.

But then again, should the Laws be changed again. Would introducing things such as video replays and mic'ed referees assist the game? Certainly having referees being more accountable for their actions would help, for example the awarding of a free kick that led to the Wolves' equaliser and Sinclair's yellow for diving when he tripped. Likewise at times when both the referee and assistants are uncertain, the use of video replay would be advantageous. After all they both work in rugby and there is only a short break of play.

Never the less, the main root of these troubles is the supporters inability to conenct with what they are seeing on the pitch. With falling attendances, people need to feel more connected with what is happening - whether it be a change in Laws to make them more simple, or a change to add more communication.

*these have been précised

Stadium Review #13 - The Hawthorns

Ground Information: The Hawthorns (West Bromwich Albion FC) Capacity 28.,003

Appearance: From the exterior, some sides looked much like a new block of flats, but the blank blue corner aspects were very boring and jarring - just a huge blue wall. Was very surprised at how open the Birmingham Road end was, the exit gates being just normal bared gates straight onto the road; several people were watching the Arsenal match through them. From the inside, the smaller Halford Lane stand provided the 'novelty factor' What also surprised me was the seating on the Birmingham Road stand that was around the corner! 6/10

View: Sat near the back of the Smethwick End stand near the segregation, a bit far away but a good view unless people in the two rows in front stand, then you have no chance unless you stand too. 6/10

Getting there: One of the easiest grounds ever - turn right at M5 junction 1!. The Hawthorns metro station is nearby, but miles away from a mainline station. Car parking is available in any of the dodgy looking empty warehouses next to the ground. Ironically this is 'secured parking'. The coach drops you off a 5 minute walk from the ground, which seems bizarre to start with but makes sense at the end of the game (see stewarding/police section) 9/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Another stadium with excellent toilet facilities, though the concourse was a little cramped. Only one bar/food outlet facility is available, meaning long queues. The usual TVs were dotted around. Plus if you are of a larger build, you may want to book two seats, these are the most cramped I've ever been in - no leg or shoulder room at all. And what about the adverts played at half time? It's like going to a cheap cinema! 6/10

Food and Drink: Wasn't feeling too great so only had a chocolate bar. Even if I wanted a pie, there was only one left (which I gallantly offered to my mate). Reasonable prices. 7/10

Stewarding/Police: How many stewards and police does it take to evict three people? Answer 15 coppers and 13 stewards. Most probably one of the most over zealous displays ever witnesses, especially as one of the evictees had his head rammed into the metal advertising board when his resisted arrest. Plus the bizarre post-match segregation that leads you down an alleyway to the middle of nowhere, at the bottom of the hill back up to the main road. Very poor showing. 2/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Grim northern s**thole is too nice really. Apart from a McDonalds, there's nothing else but a load of rundown warehouses and an electrical store nearby. There are very few pubs too, you need to hunt out an away-fan friendly one (or just arrive really early and claim one). 4/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Some would say they were poor, but home atmospheres are suffering all over the league this season, but at least they did sing even if many couldn't hear them. 6/10

Total score: 46/80

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
= Carrow Road (Norwich): 50
= Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
Underhill (Barnet): 49
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
The Hawthorns (WBA): 46
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41
London Road (Peterbrough): 36

Eyes of a Thrush

West Bromwich Albion 2 - 1 Plymouth Argylle*

Many will protest that it should have been 2-3 if only the referee had the eyes of a hawk instead of the heart of a Baggie. Argyle were very pedestrian for most of the match, and playing against WBA's 12th, 13th and 14th players; the referee's and assistants' decision making left little to be desired when, from the stand (and dugout) the Laws were enforced arbitrarily. From Akos' (accidental?) handball leading to their penalty through to both of Argyle's turned down penalties, the visitors were wading through the treacle of rules the officials enforced, and so most of the time were trying to avoid any confrontation that might lead to a booking or WBA's advantage, leading to us giving Kamera too much freedom.

Again, Sinclair managed to spice up the team. I feel that it is unfair of the Green Army to pile so much pressure upon him since his Barnet goal; if he doesn't dish up the goods every game, they may turn against him. But once again Scott managed to come up trumps with his quick, weaving runs the left side. His ball control delivered it into the Baggies' box but most of the time, no one was on the receiving end except for a WBA player. It wasn't until Fallon's goal that Argyle got stuck in. An equaliser was going to come, but not in the time left to play.

Once again, this was a 'what if...' game.



*deliberate mistake. This is how WBA decided to spell Argyle on their advertising. I like to think the signwriters' meeting went something along the lines of: "How'd you spell it - Argyle? Argyll?" "Dunno, we'll cover both bases and put down both".

Stadium Review #12 - Underhill

Ground Information: Underhill (Barnet FC) Capacity 5,500

Appearance: A typical league two ground, surrounded by houses; how I'd love to live overlooking Home Park (if it was possible). Two open goal ends, 1 covered terrace, and a grandstand with an open side. Very unusual floodlights. 6/10

View: Roofing pilars and other people obsured about a quarter of the pitch when stood at the rear of the East Terrace, but otherwise what you'd expect. 5/10

Getting there: Not as difficult as some would say. Underhill is just down the road from High Barnet tube (though relying on the Northern line is not something to be done very often), and virtually straight on from junction 23 of the M25. There is no dedicated parking though. 6/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Expansive toilet facilities - was very impressed by their size, standard and cleanliness, especially when compared to Peterborough. There is nothing else though except for a catering bar. 8/10 (for the toilets alone!)

Food and Drink: Very tasty pie (Chicken and Mushroom) but a bit too soggy and hot. They ran out of pies again, not having learnt from the Green Army's previous visit. The bar remains open all game (no alcohol served) and there was a 30p difference in price depending on who served you! 6/10

Stewarding/Police: Didn't have anything to do with them. Which is a good thing. 6/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Barnet centre is a trek up the hill, or you have the whole of London at your disposal via the tube. The Old Red Lion on the corner of Underhill and High Street is a popular pub and gets very full but I was charged double for one round and was too tipsy to notice. 6/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): The covered-uncovered nature of the ground makes it hard to hear anyone apart from those you are stood with. Argyle had the East terrace and North terrace and couldn't hear each other. So it's difficult to judge, but others nearer the fans have praised their enthusiasm. 6/10

Total score: 49/80

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
= Carrow Road (Norwich): 50
= Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
Underhill (Barnet): 49
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41
London Road (Peterbrough): 36

Fixture Change

Due to the FA Cup 5th rounds, the scheduled game verses Sheffield Wednesday will now be on:
Tuesday 6th March, 19.45, Hillsborough

Elsewhere, Romain Larrieu has gone back to Gillingham for a second loan spell.

Squad Changes

After Romain returned from his emergency loan to Gillingham on Saturday, two more changes have occured to the first team squad this week, namely Cherno Samba has gone out on loan to Wrexham and Anthony Barness has terminated his contract "by mutual concent". Ollie hopes that the next 4/5 games at Wrexham will give Samba more experience where as Barness has been out of favour since the beginning of the season with just two starts (1 league, 1 cup) and no bench appearances, so it seems natural that he moves on.

FA Cup 5th Round

Plymouth Argyle - Derby County

We're not getting much luck with these draws are we?

Barnet Fair - FA Cup update

Barnet 0 - 2 Argyle

So for the first time in 19 years Argyle have go through to the fifth round, sealed with an excellent goal from on loan Sinclair who ran virtually all of the pitch alone before putting the ball away:



A top class goal. But we had to slog out the first half as Barnet matched Argyle up until Hasney's penalty. Why make such a meal out of playing a team two divisions below us?

The 5th round draw is on Monday, but we may have to wait until the 13th before we find out our true opposition. Here's hoping (3rd time lucky) for a premiership club!

One consequence is the CCC game verses Sheffield Wednesday for the 17th February will be rescheduled.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Plymouth 3 - 2 Coventry
Though almost without the lights.

Two power failures, mirroring last year's failures verses Southampton exactly, delayed the kick off for 15 minutes in front of Sky's cameras and another low turnout.

A game played in bitterly cold conditions and very strong winds made hard going, especially for the high balls we tend to play, but Argyle managed some good attacking football before Gallen served up a début goal. But as usual when Argyle go 1-0 up, Coventry immediately came back with the equaliser. Buzsaky made the score 2-1 going into the break with Hayles extending the lead 3-1 in the second half as Coventry seemed to start to lack confidence. However their second goal brought them straight back into the game meaning that Plymouth had 20+3 minutes of tough battling to keep the three points.

The problem of conceeding soft goals stil remains, but tonight the players' hard work ethic went through the roof.

After a second win whilst live on digital satellite does this mean that the curse of Sky that has befallen Argyle over the past few seasons has been lifted?

Meanwhile Romain Larrieu has gone out on an emergency 7 day loan to Gillingham.

Signings and switchings

Ian Holloway has added two more players to the squad - number 33, Rory Fallon, a striker from Swansea and another striker, Scott Sinclair on loan from Chelsea.
This brings the total of new signings (4 loans, 2 with a view to permanent moves in the summer, and 1 long term) to 5, which is probably more than many Pilgrims supporters would have expected in December. Hopefully the club's record transfer fee of £300,000 on Fallon will be money well spent.

And on another note. It has been decided that the scheduled West Bromwich Albion match will now take place on Wednesday 31 January instead of Tuesday at the insistance of the police. This will put out a lot of supporters who have arranged holiday, travel and accommodation, especially at such short notice.

Stadium Review #11 - Carrow Road

Ground Information: Carrow Road (Norwich City FC) Capacity 26,034

Appearance: A mish mash of different styles ranging from 50s multi-storey carpark to construction site from the outside, and a low single storey, high single storey and two two-tiered each end stands. And there's currently a new hotel being built in between the Jarrold and Barclay stands. 6/10

View: Sat quite low down due to the need to take photos, but none the less good. 6/10

Getting there: In the back and beyond from Plymouth really, but the ground is next to the city centre, meaning good access from the train/bus station, plus the ground was sign posted from the outskirts (if you come off at the right junction). The coach park is a bit of a trek away though. 6/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Good use of space in the concourse meant ample toilets and no queuing for the bars, a betting stand and TVs also available, although strangely these are turned off 5 minutes into each half . 6/10

Food and Drink: Delia's tried to bring football food up a class, from serving wine to beef and red wine pies which were a pleasant and surprising change, and what's better is that the prices are no higher than normal. 8/10

Stewarding/Police: Remaining seated at the front was imperative, but those near the back stood most of the match. The local bobbies were helpful in directing us to a pub. 6/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): The city centre is across the road, with a retail park and pubs, although you are limited to which public houses you're allowed in. If you like cheap and cheerful, try the Lloyds bar (Wetherspoons). 7/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Lots of singing from the Barclay stand. 5/10

Total score: 50/80

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
= Carrow Road (Norwich): 50
= Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41
London Road (Peterbrough): 36

FA Cup Update

Plymouth Argyle 2 - 1 Peterborough

A scrappy game that saw the Pilgrims go 1-0 down to come back with two lucky goals in a stadium devoid of any atmosphere with some half-hearted attempts at playing football.

Therefore the 4th Round on Saturday 27th January will be:
Barnet - Plymouth

Top of the Pies

Updated Pie of the Year league table:

1. Colchester 7.96
2. Crystal Palace 7.56
3. Birmingham 7.46
=4. Barnsley 7.36
=4. Southampton 7.36
6. Derby 7.3333333333333333
7. Sunderland 6.8
8. Coventry 6.69
9. Cardiff 6.4
10. Peterborough 6.326
11. Norwich 5.84
12. Southend 5.06
13. Leicester 5.03
14. Preston 4.93
15. Stoke 4.29

Goulashed!

To quote Sparksy.

Norwich 1 - 3 Plymouth

Our new signings added to the mix whipped up some good goal scoring opportunited but it looked like a good beating was on the table when we went 1-0 and started the second half like headless chickens. But it was Norwich who ended up with egg on their faces when Hayles scrambled for a corner folled by Akos's straight cut free kicks. Despite a typical Argyle performance the Devon dumplings keep bouncing back.

To quote me.

It seemed the lady luck decided to turn out at 4.15 yesterday. Argyle were putting in a fairly string performance against the Canaries and had several very good chances. Halmosi's corners seemed more focused than Capaldi's, but as usual we had no one who could put the ball away. And Argyle were cetainly playing against a lino who was stuck on a four minute delay.
Luke suffered an injury scare when caught on his knee in his block, and was not happy taking the kicks afterwards, then usual mistakes put us 1-0 down come half time and Argyle started to loose shape and confidence starting the second half. But out of nowhere Hayles headed away a corner. This was followed by a free kick by Akos, who has had trouble finding the net this season, but again the ball was slotted away neatly.
Later still Akos lined up for another free kick, but this one wasn't as clear cut - the ball hit the crossbar and bounced on the line - did ot go in? Well the linesman and referee thought so, and that's what counts. Argyle then had to fight to hold out for the remaining 20 + 4 minutes.

We have played and fought harder than this in the last few games but only come out of them, at most, with draws. It seemed today we had the Rub of the Greens.

And Hayles didn't receive a card.

Stadium Review #10 - London Road

Ground Information: London Road (Peterborough United FC) Capacity 15,314

Appearance: A league two side who have tried to keep up with modern trends, London Road had a mix of the traditional terraces behind the goals and seating down either side. The newer South Stand with it space frame construction and patio door executive boxes looks out of place compared to the original three sides. The rest of the ground looks old but well maintained. 5/10

View: (based on Terracing, seating is available in a seperate stand) A couple of pillars in the way but as the terrace is vast you can easily move around. 6/10

Getting there: Roadworks in Peterborough meant a well signed diversion was set up to round the other side of the city. The ground is right next to the town centre but hidden behind a shopping precinct. The roadworks create some confusion and congestion. 6/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Just a small food and (non alcoholic) bar and very old toilets which couldn't cope with the large number of people we took. 4/10

Food and Drink: The pie was alright and reasonably prices, but the burgers were awful. They looked like premade microwave burgers which had been heated, wrapped and left to cool until sold. 4/10

Stewarding/Police: Local police were helpful in directing me to a local pub after I'd walked over the same railway bridge six times. The stewards insisted the aisles were kept clear before the match but didn't really care what happened during. 6/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): There are several pubs around (if you can find them!), alternatively the town centre is a short walk away. And some attraction called "Railworld" is next door. 6/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): The bottle throwing incident and the vitroil they showed towards Plymouth in aftermath of whole game did little to ingratiate them to us. 3/10

Total score: 36/80

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41
London Road (Peterbrough): 36

Signings

Home Park announced today the completion of 3 signings:
- Number 17. Kevin Gallen, striker (from QPR)
- Number 5. Krisztián Timár, midfielder (from Debreceni VSC)
- Number 16. Péter Halmosi, defender (from Ferencvaros)

This is the news than many greens have been waiting for, currently three players to help strengthen our squad, and hopefully a few more to come.

Gallen has worked with Holloway before, and at 31 is not the 'beast' that Ollie wants up front. As Kevin's contract is only until the end of the season, his signing seems to be a stop-gap until better things happen to come along. But Gallen does have the experience, has captained QPR and is versitile on the wings and midfield.

Timar and Halmosi have been signed from Hungary and Halmosi has worked with Akos before (though Peter's command of English is quite limited). Again they are on loan until the end of the season but are looking to move permanently come the summer. Halmosi is a left footed player and will certainly give Capaldi a run for his money, especially if wranglings over Tony's contract continue.

It is expected that Gallen, Timar and Halmosi will be seen in the squad for Argyle's game against Norwich on Saturday.

FA Cup fourth round update

Barnet - Plymouth/Peterborough

Discipline: getting stupid now

- Ollie in trouble with FA and FIFA regarding his comments about Blatter and the offside rule.
- Hasney Aljofree to be investigated by Peterborough police for inciting the crowd leading to the bottle throwing incident.
- Marcel Seip arrested AGAIN for public disturbance on Union Street.

Add to that that the mounting number of cards issued against Argyle players this season, the number of fouls committed and the amount of dissent on the pitch, it seems that the reigns upon discipline amongst players have been slackened far too much. Maybe its just because this is all happening at the same time, along with injuries etc, but the troubles at Home Park seem to be getting out of control. A severe lack of discipline looks evident. Is Holloway being too friendly and personal with people, does his 'happy-go-lucky' attitude impress the wrong attitude? Certainly it seems that Ollie is being far too informal on occasions and needs to engage brain before mouth - were his comments about throwing a bottle at Hasney said in jest or (as purported now) deadly serious. The issue with calling Blatter an 'idiot' bears this out.
On looking at Hasney's troubles it would seem that Peterborough are taking it too far to distract from the fans' own actions (would Argyle players really show the middle finger? - at the moment maybe yes!); but look at how certain Argyle supporters took the incident with Beresford from Luton and how that ended - I would predict something similar with Aljofree.
And Marcel is nothing short of disappointing. To do it once maybe excusable but again is just plain stupid. If he is unable to control his temper or to take the flak (brought upon himself by the first incident), then he should stop going out.

At the moment (and because as yet we have no signings and could see the departure of some from a threadbare squad), the immediate future does not look as green as it was a few months back.

FA Cup fourth round

Barnet/Colchester - Argyle/Peterborough

Exciting

Poshed off

Peterborough 1 - 1 Plymouth Argyle (FA Cup 3rd round)

Looking a Argyle and Ollie's history in the cup, yesterday's 1-all draw shouldn't have been a surprise, and judging by the team's performance a draw seemed fair enough. Leaving aside the bizzare game that was played out before us with inept refereeing, strange decisions, retaken penalties, bottle-throwing, manager and player dismissal and poor conditions, it seems that no matter what mix of players on the pitch, the same problems arise. Players seem very reluctant to have a go in the box, it's as if the large netted thing puts them off, corners are still going array, and defendce has large holes in it.
Luke's return to between the sticks was more by default due to Larrieu's injury, but seemed to inspire a more confident side (though he made mistakes like Larrieu too).
Hasney had managed to upset Holloway with his penalty goal celebration leading to the missile incident, but can Holloway afford to do this with a depleated squad?
With Connolly's dismissal, Capaldi's suspension and injuries, do we have a team to field next week. Here are the current standings

1	Romain Larrieu (gk)	injured
2	Anthony Barness (d)	out of favour
4	Lilian Nallis (m)
6	Hasney Aljofree (d)	out of favour? / recently recovered / 7 yellows
7	David Norris (m)	7 yellows
8	Akos Buszaky (m)	2 yellows
9	Sylvan Ebanks Blake (s)	injured / 4 yellows
10	Barry Hayles (s)	9 yellows
11	Nick Chadwick (s)	long term injured / 3 yellows
13	Mathias Doumbe (d)	injured / 4 yellows
14	Tony Capaldi (m)	1 match ban (5 yellows)
15	Paul Wotton (m)	long term injured / 3 yellows
18	Gary Sawyer (d)
19	Marcel Seip (d)	3 yellows
20	Lee Hodges (m)	recently recovered
21	Cherno Samba (s)	1 yellow
22	Paul Connolly (d)	1 match ban (red) / 4 yellows / recently recovered
23	Luke McCormick (gk)	1 yellow
24	Josh Clapham (gk)	on loan
25	Ryan Dickson (m)
27	Reuban Reid (m)
28	Scott Laird (d)
29	Luke Summerfield (m)	1 yellow
30	Dan Gosling (m)
31	Anthony Mason (s)
32	Bojan Djordjic (m)	long term injured

The replay will be on Tuesday 16th January, 19.45, Home Park; this is an extra game we could do without.
The 4th round draw is tomorrow at 13.30. No doubt one of the following will happen:
Argyle will draw a plum tie and go out to Peterborough,
Argyle will draw a Championship club and go through.
Ho hum

Pride at Stake

Tomorrow's FA cup match verses Peterborough is more than just a chance of a cup run, instead Argyle's pride is at stake. Recently getting into the fourth round of any cup is considered a 'run'; and now we've drawn Peterborough in the FA Cup third round - a club two leagues below us - and knowing Argyle's history this could be a big banana skin.

With bearly a squad to field due to injuries, our substitute captain out due to a booking and our keepers' current form, we shall be relying on our younger inexperienced members to deliver against a team who are bound to be out for all they can get. A loss will do nothing to help Argyle's profile during this transfer window and amongst its supporters.

Some say 'concentrate on the league', but why is it that everytime cup matches come round that concentrating on the league has to be a priority?

Stadium Review #9 - Pride Park

Ground Information: Pride Park (Derby County FC) Capacity 33,597

Appearance: A very impressive stadium from both outside and in, similar to Home Park on a larger scale with the space frame design and wrap-round roof but with a two tiered side and very clean and bright facilities. The corner of executive boxes is unusual. 10/10

View: Excellent, couldn't fault anything. From the picture you can see I was dead centre of the goal due to the amount of space given to away supporters. 10/10

Getting there: Derby from the South West is a bit round the houses, took the M42 - A42 - A50 - A6 route, which from the outskirts sported large "Away Supporters" signage. Parked at a nearby pub but there is an away supporters car park next to the ground. The train station is about 15 minutes away. 8/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Massive. The concourse went on for miles and the toilets were cavernous. There were 2 large bars for alcohol and food and a smaller non alcohol-selling bar, though having to order through a grill was strange. The PA was excellent, maybe a tad too loud, with the usual TVs showing SSN. 9/10

Food and Drink: Good pie, good pint, good service. 8/10

Stewarding/Police: The group I was with came under the watchful eye of the local police force and we were filmed on CCTV for 10 minutes each half, but apart from a quiet work in the ear of a few more boisterous members, nothing happened. Stood all match. 8/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Went to the pub, which was a fair trek from the ground as are other pubs in the city centre. 6/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Passionate, some Argyle supprters jeered them but for the best part of the game (once they got started) they sang. 6/10

Total score: 65/80

So Derby tops the league table, which is not at all surprising.

Stadium League Table:
Pride Park (Derby): 65
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41

Hayle-ing

Plymouth Argyle 1 - 1 Southampton

The game that nearly wasn't, and after 5 minutes many wished it remained that way. 3 hours before kick off the heavens opened and spewed forth a torrent of hail stones, along with thunder and lightning, and strong winds. The Mayflower stand was a total washout, large clumps of hail formed on the stairs and fell from the grandstand roof. This then melted and created wide rivers and large lakes causing turnstile opening to be prostponed whilst it was all hand to the brushes to clear up the mess.

The game looked in doubt when the referee made his first pitch inspection, a second was undertaken at 13.30 and the game declared on. Half hour before kick off a final inspection was made, and although there were dodgy patches the pitch was declared playable after much to-ing and fro-ing. This made for a frustrating game as players found it hard to stay on their feet.

Argyle went 0-1 down within 5 minutes due to a howler by Larrieu, who had a nightmare of a game, and seems to be suffering from a bout of silly mistakes. This made the defence unwilling to pass back to Larrieu for the rest of the game. And we still had the usual trouble with set pieces and shooting on target.

Second half turned out to be probably one of the most controversial 45 minutes of football this season at least. After Argyle's equaliser, we had a second disallowed; various baffling decisions given by the referee and his assistants; Hayles got his 10th yellow card normally meaning a 2 game ban but instead he then picked up another for dissent meaning the second of the game, so will serve a 1 match ban. When inevitably he'll pick up his 10th, another 2 match ban will come into force. This leaves Argyle captain-less for the second time this season. This was indeed an entertaining game with a better looking Argyle on show compared to their poor showing against Derby.

It's quite difficult to know what to do in circumstances like this, as it's very easy to moan and pick on individual players. But it is very clear that there are huge holes in the squad, poor decisions being made all round, and most of all a complete lack of discipline. Players are collecting yellow and red cards like they're going out of fashion and it's just not on. We have enough of the squad out due to injuries without others having to serve match bans due to dissent and poor play. At the moment we’re running to stay still in the league and unless some wonders occur soon, the rest of the season will be an uphill struggle.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year to you all.

Rammed

Derby County 1 - 0 Plymouth Argyle

I was going to call this post something along the lines of "Rammed/Out of steam/Are we bovvered?", but it sounded like an episode title from The Love Boat plus I've slept since yesterday and forgotten what I exactly wanted to say.

Yesterday's performance against Derby was from two poor teams, one whose at the top of the table and the other floating around the middle. But unfortunately for Plymouth the result of a small squad, mounting injuries (Ebanks-Blake's very early substitution adding to the list) and the Christmas/New year schedule paid its toll and we've run out of steam. After the exciting Cardiff game in Boxing Day, this match was slow and dull, I lost concentration many times and the time didn't half drag. There was a hint of 'are we bovvered?' from some players - maybe with the January transfer window on their minds, or just fed up with wading through treacle at the moment.

The fixtures list in January permits a two-week break at the end of the month (assuming we don't have a cup run), and hopefully this will allow injuried players time to recover and any new signings to settle in. After the New Year's Day game verses Southampton, the Greens supporters will wait with baited breath.

Stadium Review #8 - Ninian Park

Ground Information: Ninian Park (Cardiff City FC) Capacity 20,000

Appearance: An old ground adapted to the new requirements, but looking decidedly shabby; forgivable due to their new stadium plans; consisting of 2 two-tier pitch length stands, single tier ends with open corners. The away end is still terracing with a small seated section, which (unless you stand on the Mayflower) is a novelty. 4/10

View: Who had the worst view? Everyone probably; the large pilars don't help, coupled with the shallow incline of the terrace, meaning a lot of the action is obscured depending on where you stand and with whom. The seating wasn't much better apparently. 3/10

Getting there: The best directions encountered so far. The VMSs on the M4 from Newport which declared "Plymouth Fans use J33" was a welcoming touch (though you do get the feeling they're luring you into an ambush!). From junction 33, follow the A road right to the car parks, cannot have been any easier. Ninian Park is on the opposite side of the railway tracks to the city centre, so should be easy to find from Cardiff Central. 10/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): Third world? Housed in the corner by the turnstiles, the bar was at least covered (but probably only to comply with the 'no drinking in view of the pitch' rule) and there was a burger-bar style outlet. The toilets were antiquated at least - only consisting of urinals for the guys - don't have a curry the night before! Nothing else to do, but the PA announcer gave us a history lesson about PAFC and a couple of quiz questions.
BTW does anyone know which league football club's name in England or Scotland doens't contain any letters from the word "football"? 4/10

Food and Drink: Poor, pie was cold, but so were the drinks (which is good!). In fact all the food was cold - even the hot stuff - maybe part of some plot to give away fans food poisioning. 4/10

Stewarding/Police: Everyone was searched on the way in, but else had no problems. 8/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Went straight to ground. The reputation Cardiff fans have for themselves make people wary of socialising near the ground, but as the city centre is near by, you probably could have gone to the sales. 5/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Home crowds are generally low on the decibels, but they are an intimidating looking lot. Don't know who was on the receiving end of the Vicky Pollard chanting but it was excellent and must have taken it in good humour. 4/10

Total score: 42/80

Stadium League Table:
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Ninian Park (Cardiff): 42
Roots Hall (Southend): 41

Needless waste

Cardiff City 2 - 2 Argyle

Yet again another draw, but this time it nearly wasn't.
Argyle went 1-0 up by half time, but as usual conceeded in the second half (2 goals in 4 minutes). This is why, as I mentioned about the WBA game, that I hate when Argyle take the lead, because they nearly always give away sloppy goals.

But inspite of that and the fact that we could have won 3-2 if the goal wasn't disallowed, this was a great performance by the lads and did well to bring about the equaliser. In all, quite an enjoyable day out and as it was an early kick off, I am home in time for Challenge Anneka

Merry Christmas

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas

No Bore Draw

Argyle 2 - 2 West Bromwich

Inspite of the dire scoreline, because of both WBA goals coming in the first half added time, today's match was one of the most entertaining this season.

Larrieu made a return between the sticks and made of great saves in the second half but had to do a lot of back tracking due to commiting too early and missing, and of course they're goals; and Djordjic had "Hasney's Curse" upon him today and was (unneccesarily?) subbed early on due to a bleeding nose.

But a much better performance all round once we settled down, though again but for our poor finishing, hoofball and the keepers' performances, the scoreline should have been much higher.
And this is why I am extremely wary of Argyle leading in the first half.

Pie of the Year league

For those of you who are interested here is the league table of this season's pies:

1. Colchester 7.96
2. Crystal Palace 7.56
3. Birmingham 7.46
=4. Southampton 7.36
=4. Barnsley 7.36
6. Sunderland 6.8
7. Coventry 6.69
8. Southend 5.06
9. Leicester 5.03
10. Preston 4.93
11. Stoke 4.29

Pies are normally reviewed by Ruddlemoor Green and are given scores for pastry, filling, and health and safety, and are normally steak/steak and kidney flavour unless availability dictates otherwise.

Stadium Review #7 - Deepdale

Ground Information: Deepdale (Preston North End FC) Capacity 22,225

Appearance: Three redeveloped sides with the old terracing is still in limbo - not in use by the public but it houses the players' facilities and is therefore slowly decaying away until such times as a new stand is built. This could be a future echo of Home Park if nothing is decided about the grandstand and should be a warning to Argyle directors about not delaying. Elsewhere the ground is looking shabby, especially the away end concourse - walking into the toilet I thought I was in a caretaker's store. 4/10

View: The corners of the stands have been filled in using transparent walls, this allows the sun to come through at an awkward angle - just right to blind anyone in the away end. However the steepness of the seating permits a good view of the action. 6/10

Getting there: Easy - turn off the M6 ar junction 31 and apart from bearing left at the small roundabout, head straight ahead. If you do get lost, the gorund is signed from the motorway. Apparently parking is a nightmare and the train station is a 30 minute walk away though. 7/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): As I said above the toilets looked very run down, with caretaker's equipment on view. However they were reasonably large and coped with the amount of fans we had, but would have been inadequate if we had more. There was 1 TV working (out of 2), showing the racing before the game and SSN at HT. 5/10

Food and Drink: Very poor pie - comes second to last on the PASOTI Pie of the Year league table so far, but the beer was on tap. 4/10

Stewarding/Police: Got frisked again on the way in - must be getting a reputation for hanging round with certain Bananabus people. A group stood all game and had the attention of a supervisor, a steward and a safety officer but they didn't succeed in getting them to sit down. One supporter was escorted out by police, but unsure what for. 6/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Deepdale has the benefit of the National Football Museum built under its stands (and a gym and learning centre too), and what's best is that entrance is free. It is easy to spend a lot of time there. Else if your more alcoholic-minded, two recommended pubs are about 5 minutes' walk away, or if you want to do some shopping, the Deepdale retail park is 10-15 minutes' away and a supermarket over the road. 7/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Poor, 3-0 and they still didn't sing (much) at least they didn't have those stupid blow up clappers like last season. 4/10

Total score: 43/80

Stadium League Table:
Poltair Park (St Austell): 57 [non league]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Deepdale (Preston): 43
Roots Hall (Southend): 41

Jingle Balls - Have a Ball with Sparksy

"Following his enormous sucess with his balls, Plymouth Argyle BBC Radio Devon commentator, Gordon Sparks, has branched out into the music world with "Sparksy's Balls", a revised version of Bobby Vee's "Rubber Ball" with a 'B' side "Nice one Sparksy". 500 CDs have been manufactured and are available for £3 from Home Park Superstore, Argyle Store Drake Circus and Ivor Dewdney on Cornwall Street.

After his cancer scare earlier this season, Gordon launched "Have a Ball with Sparksy" to raise funds for Mustard Tree Macmillan Cancer relief and a few weeks afterwards, Romain Larrieu was also involved in his own scare.

His keyring balls are still on sale for £1 from numerous outlets over Plymouth, as well as tonight's "Have a gig with Sparksy" and a forthcoming "Have a Ball with Sparksy - the Match".

So remember guys and galls not to ignore things - the earlier you discover a problem and seek help, the better the chance of sorting it.

Sold!

After months of wrangling it was confirmed today that Plymouth Argyle finally own the freehold of Home Park. This has been stalling for too long, and will now free up the board's attention to concentrate on such things as the January transfer window and getting phase II started.
Along with that some 'mystery' investors have approached the board with an offer of money; so hopefully things will start happening at Home Park on and off the pitch.

The Hearld article (Freehold)
Western Morning News article (Investment)

O Come All You Faithful

This evening saw the annual Argyle Carol Concert hosted by club chaplain Jeff Howden with guest readers Hasney Aljofree and David Norris.

Now in its 5th year, the Devonport end hosted a large crowd for traditional biblical readings and songs. In a world where Christianity is increasingly being pushed out of Christ-mas, it is a surprising change that a secular business that is Argyle is embrassing such an event, and more to their merit. And for the way that it is supported there seems to be a demand and a warm welcome for such initiatives.

And as it is that season, a recent suggestion on PASOTI for new Argyle related carols yielded the following:

Oh come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
Welcome to Home Park where the Green Army sing.
Skillful, determined, ne'er to be defeated.
Oh we are Plymouth Argyle
Oh we are Plymouth Argyle
Oh we are Plymouth Argyle
Sing for the Greens.
(Oh come all ye faithful by Tim_OHare)

The Ollie and the Army,
When they are both full grown
Of all the teams that are in the league
I just wish we’d win at home.
O the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Who said Elton John was queer?
(The Holly and the Ivy by McLondonG - this has 5 more verses!)

So I thought I'd have a go and came up with:

We, the greens of Plymouth Argyle
Cherno up front, McCormick in goal
Goals, we're scoring, glory glory
Forever to Argyle

Oh, Norris, Akos, Ollie's might
Djordjic, Chadwick, Connolly, Seip
Hayles, Capaldi, Wotton, Nalis
Greens go marching through the night
(We Three Kings)

Once in South West's premier city
Stood the might theatre of greens
Holloway, the barmy leader
Demport, Lyndhurst, Mayflower sings:

"Joyful to the boys in green
Pilgrims we shall always be!"
(Once in Royal David's City)

O Championship club, Argyle
How great to see thee play.
On Tuesday nights and Saturdays
Whether we're at home or away.
We're the green and white barmy army
We cheer along our lads.
Through thick or thin, come sun or rain
We're Argyle all the way.
(O Little Town of Bethlehem)

Trouble is I cannot sing the proper lyrics without smirking.

Depressed-ton

Have the wheels fallen off Argyle’s happy bandwagon?

Well at the moment, yes. Another 3-0 drubbing, this time at Preston, has shown our squad up for the paper that-you-can-spit-through thinness that it is.

Today’s woeful performance was a Birmingham mark II, and once again you were left wondering after 2-0 down why the heck you’ve just spent £50+ and 17 hours on a coach. It was evident again that Holloway’s tinkering with positions due to injuries (and some players he just doesn’t like) is doing nothing to allow the lads to settle down, especially as players are having to fill in out of position, and the captain’s out for the season (at least). It seems that the spark that was evident in the early games has been extinguished for good, and with 3 games before January, when there is the possibility of fresh blood (some cynics may say, judging by the last 2 transfer and loan windows, don’t hold your breath), this festive season is going to be a big struggle for the greens.

Captainless

All though the extent of his injury is not yet fully known, it looks like Paul Wotton's knee will keep him out of the team till the end of this season at least, and this leaves us without a Captain.

Holloway has not yet decided who should take over the armband, although [Barry] Hayles has filled in 3 times this season (Cardiff, Southampton & Luton) but Hayles may not have the right temperament to take on the role permanently - he is too argumentative with the referee. Supporters have debated the problem but cannot decide on a definitive answer with suggestions ranging from Norris, Aljofree, Nalis and Doumbe. The trouble is that Wotton has always been captain, and except for a few sub-ings etc, it's hard to see just who could take over.

But no doubt, this is going to knock the stuffing out of the squad - there have already been reported [by Holloway himself] incidence in training because of the lack of a captain - and it doesn't bode too well for Saturday's match at PNE, especially with the other injuries.

Everyone hopes that Paul gets well soon and we hope too that the lads will pull together and play this and subsequent matches to their best

Toothless Tigers and Powerless Pilgrims

Plymouth 1 - 0 Hull; but the score line hides a lot.

With a severely depleted squad due to injuries and suspensions, Holloway fielded a decidedly young team to normal, but even with the new blood, the old problems were still apparent and if only either side could finish, there would have been far more goals.

It seems obvious to all that playing the high-long ball is not workable, they just get headed back and forth, so why are we still playing that way? Get it on the deck and pass!

To add salt to the wound, our paper-thin squad is even thinner after Wotton sustained a very bad injury which will see him out for a long time (this season at least) and is a loss of a long standing, experienced member, and skipper. However he has been subbed and dropped from the team before; we coped then, can we cope again? Though it did give the chance for our newest member, Gosling, to come on and by all accounts fielded a very good impression.

And if Hayles is to take over as skipper, he is definitely got to learn some self restraint, there have been too many bookings for dissent by him this season and was riding by the seat of his pants 2nd half when he sarcastically called the referee’s judgment into question over a foul. Luckily the referee laughed back at him as a booking should have been forthcoming.

As some would say "a win is a win is a win", does it matter how we get there?

Saturday Night's Alright...for Elton

In one of the most inspired and forward thinking acts to come out of Home Park for a long time, it was announced today that in May next year, Sir Elton John will be in concert at Home Park!

On the 26th May 2007, Home Park will be transformed, with a stage (most likely on the Mayflower as phase 1 seating is on sale) and additional seating constructed on the pitch. Tickets for the cheapest blocks have sold out already.

This is indeed great news that the clubs is moving forward, and no doubt the freehold purchase has facilitated this; for once Argyle deserve a huge pat on the back.

Argyle supporters can purchase tickets here

Stadium Review #6 - St Andrews

Ground Information: St Andrews (Birmingham City FC) Capacity 30,016

Appearance: Like Home Park, St Andrews has a touch of the traditional, with its old stand down one side of the ground, which contrasts starkly against the two tiers next to it. The three different stand designs made for a lot for the eye to take in and the flaired sides were rather odd. Where I was sat (far top left of the Railway end), you're barely in the stadium and quite remote from the action. 7/10

View: Apart from beeing miles away and having direct line of sight over the back of the lower tier of the Kop, there were no restrictions at all, meaning you got a very good view of our poor performance. 6/10

Getting there: People have commented that this is a very well signed stadium, and as you would expect from such a large city, there are many ways to reach it from the surrounding motorways. A 20 minute walk from New Streets station wouldn't be too taxing by anyone's standards. 6/10

Facilities (toilets, TVs etc): BCFC must have seriously understimated our away support, and as we had sold out all 2,500 tickets before the day, it's not like they hadn't had any warning. The concourse was very cramped and the toilets inadequate for the 2,700 that turned up. Maybe it's because I spotted this sign posted high up on a pillar, stating that the concourse was only licenced to hold 1,260 people - oops. There were no TVs. 5/10

Food and Drink: Reasonable priced, but wofully unprepared. The usual pies were available plus some oddities like a 'pizza pasty'. The Chicken Balti pie is highly recommended, plus the bitter/lager was on tap. 6/10

Stewarding/Police: The second time I stood all match. The stewards succeeded in getting people to sit down up to three rows in front of me but then gave up. 8/10

Surrounding area (what's there to do outside the ground): Some people say the area's too rough for away supporters and it's best to drink in the city, however I ended up in the Cricketer's Arms round the back of Morrisons - very very small, watered down lager but friendly locals. Alternatively you can go to the Woolworth superstore or Morissons cafés if that's what appeals to you - and judging by some matchday photos I've seen, they were popular. 5/10

Home fans (their contribution to the atmosphere etc): Were good when 2-0 and 3-0 up singing "Keep right on to the end...", something which is seriously lacking at Home Park. 5/10

Total score: 48/80

Stadium League Table:
[Poltair Park (St Austell): 57]
Stadium of Light (Sunderland): 55
Ricoh Arena (Coventry):51
Walkers Stadium (Leicester): 50
St Andrews (Birmingham): 48
Roots Hall (Southend): 41

No smoke without fire

The debate over the smoking ban has come to Home Park. With public areas due to go 'smokeless' from 1st July 2007, speculation over whether Argyle will ban smoking within its stadium is rife (at least on PASOTI it is).

Under the ruling Sports Stadia are included in the criteria for 'public place':
"Does this legislation cover sports stadiums?
Many sports stadiums are already smokefree. When smokefree legislation comes into force, only those stadiums that are enclosed or substantially enclosed will need to be smokefree."
(Smokefree England)

Argyle currently ban smoking within the seating areas, leaving the Mayflower terrace, the lane behind the Grandstand and concourse areas smoking areas. This causes is a juxtaposition whereby anyone in the Devonport, Lyndhurst or Barn Park has to go into an enclosed area, instead of remaining in the open air. The result is a build up of fumes at half time causing an unpleasent atmosphere for the non smokers.

Micheal Dunford has already banned smoking by staff on Home Park property at the beginning of this season, and this would suggest that come July (or even early), Argyle will be a completely smoke free environment. However is Home Park "enclosed or substantially enclosed"? The wording suggests that as we only have 3 completed sides and a terracing area, that Home Park is neither enclosed or substantially enclosed. This could mean that smoking could legally return to the seating areas (except the grandstand, due to its age).

But it would seem that, and would indeed in the long term be easier for, Argyle to go completely smoke-free next year. Unfortunately the way that Argyle play sometimes, it will be extremely hard for some to go 2+ hours without a drag. I suggest that the superstore should start stocking Argyle branded nicitine patched and Polo mints.

FA Cup 3rd Round

Away to Peterborough (league 2), 6th January.

There go the dreams of Manchester United or Liverpool.

I guess that's why they call them the Blues

Birmingham City managed to show Plymouth to be the small club that everyone thinks we are; outclassed in style, power, threat, perseverance and everything else; from their second goal I knew that the game was lost and that the next 1 1/2 hours of my life were going to be wasted, 3-0 and the game was dead and buried.

Yesterday, Ollie got it wrong, the change in squad that shook up the Luton game to success was too much, and unlike when Birmingham won 0-1 earlier in the season inspite of Argyle being the better team, yesterday they never really got started. The flaws that were always there were shown up to be the cracks they've developed into: lack of height, the awful corners - why do people get excited about corners, when they're always the same? - and just the general nature of a small squad with no money. This season for some reason we are racking up the cards and the injuries so much more so than last, and though the squad is versatile enough, the players are no longer coping.

A lot of people expected a massive loss today (4+-0) and we were good enough to hold it at 3-0, thanks to Luke's saves in the second half. But again, in front of the largest away attendance (2,700), the fans were let down like they were in front of the largest home attendance (17,088 Leeds). Will Argyle do the treble this season and fail in front of the cameras against Coventry?

Today sees the draw for the FA cup 3rd round, and many supporters would have liked a cup run this season, and a few weeks back it seemed possible, but now with the squad not coping in the league, the excess of a cup run will make it unlikely that we'll make any progress.

Trip down Memory Lane

I have just spent 3 hours looking for a website that was under my nose all the time, grrr!

I came across the following site (Plymouth Argyle FC Flickr photoset) about a month ago, which primarily documents Home Park before, during and after redevelopment of phase 1 (amongst the antics of a naked PAFC supporter at the World Cup) and is a fabulous trip down memory lane.

I particularly remember when young having an irrational fear of the Lyndhurst turnstiles (pictured), and looking at that picture it still gives me the shivers.

And I also discovered my first 'official link' to this blog thanks to Semper Viridis! Cheers mate.