Plymouth Argyle's 'Off Day' Won't Change Cleverley's Mindset
Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley declared that his team's 'off-day' in their 3-1 defeat by Stockport County at Home Park in their League One season-opener would not change his belief in the strength of the Pilgrims' squad. The team had five wins and a draw out of six pre-season games, and then a 2-0 Devon derby victory over Exeter City in the Carabao Cup first round last Monday.
What Happened?
County led 2-0 by the 27th minute and without a couple of excellent saves from goalkeeper Murphy Cooper could have been four goals ahead at the break, such was their superiority. Cleverley said after the game: "I'm not going to go from Thursday telling you how pleased I am with the squad, and one defeat telling you I need to change this and that. I'm pleased with the squad. Today was an off day on our behalf against what I think will develop into a very strong opponent."
Why It Matters for Plymouth
Cleverley added: "We know what we sign up for. It's going to be nine gruelling months and sometimes you feel joy, sometimes you feel relief and right now it's pain." The team's performance showed resilience in the face of adversity, and Cleverley's comments suggest that he remains optimistic about the team's chances.
What Comes Next?
The team will look to bounce back from this loss and continue their push for a successful season. With a next fixture against Barnsley (away, 2027-02-20), the Pilgrims will need to regroup and refocus to achieve their goals. League standing: 22nd in League One, 0 pts, 0W-0D-1L from 1 games, recent form L. Goals this season: 1 scored, 3 conceded (-2 goal difference). Title race: 3 points behind leaders Huddersfield. Next fixture: vs Barnsley (away, 2027-02-20) (21st in the table).
