Pilgrim's Progress

Argyle Take Control of Group

Plymouth Argyle took control of Champions League Group E with a controlled 4-1 victory at home against French giants Paris St-Germain.  The Pilgrims, who people sometimes forget are English champions, were expected to battle with Sevilla for second place in this group, and yet they have found a way to beat PSG twice, and in convincing fashion, with regard to the scorelines at least.  Four different players scored for Argyle, including Mikel Gomez (17), an academy promotee from February 2024 who is developing into a fine striker.

The win leaves Argyle top on 9 points, two clear of Sevilla.  PSG’s match against Sevilla next has assumed much greater significance for the French club, as they suddenly find themselves out of the qualifying places.

In the league, Argyle started the month with a 1-1 draw against West Ham, who are proving to be regularly difficult opponents for the Pilgrims.  After Daniel Ashton (17) fired Argyle into the lead, West Ham stepped up a gear, equalised soon afterwards, and then looked far more likely to win the match.  Ashton's goal was his second goal in consecutive appearances.

Ashton slots home vs West Ham

Arsenal’s win saw them take the lead in the league.  Argyle followed that draw with wins against Forest, Burnley and Everton.  Despite the Pilgrims resuming their winning ways, Arsenal remained top of the table at the month’s end as their relentless winning streak continued throughout November, as Mikel Arteta's side looked every inch potential champions.

In the golden boot chase, Facundo Farias sits second to Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus, whilst Kobbie Mainoo’s three goals in November sees him 7th in the listings – not bad for a midfielder.

Liverpool Thumped in Carabao Cup

Argyle thrashed a below-strength Liverpool in the Carabao Cup, running out 5-1 winners, as Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp decided to go with a team stuffed with fringe players, with just a couple of star players amongst them.  Luis Diaz was one of the stars, and he opened the scoring on 11 minutes before Argyle went on a goal spree.  Lorenzo Battaglia scored twice, including one of two scored in time added on at the end of the first half – the other coming from captain Cesar Huerta.

Liverpool dominated possession and completed more than twice as many passes as Argyle, but the Pilgrims were far more incisive and, after half time, made several substitutions of their own as manager Stones gave a run out for fringe players. 

Monteiro Promoted

A second Monteiro – Carlos – has been promoted to the first team. 

No relation to striker Laurenco, who was promoted last May, Carlos (16) is a midfielder considered an exciting prospect.

The Argyle talent factory seems to have no end in sight.