Plymouth secured a key 3-2 away victory over Cambridge United on Saturday, a comeback win that moves them up to fifth in the League One table. The result gives them 19 points from 12 games, putting them just three points behind leaders Stockport County.
Cambridge took a first half lead through a Louis Appere own goal in the 41st minute. Plymouth responded quickly after the break, with Xavier Amaechi equalising five minutes into the second half following an assist from Harvey White. Sullay Kaikai restored the home side's advantage in the 57th minute, but Plymouth were not finished.
Aribim Pepple converted a penalty in the 74th minute to level the scores once more. The decisive goal came from an unlikely source, as a late own goal from Appere, his second of the match, handed Plymouth all three points in the 86th minute. Shayne Lavery was credited with the final touch for Cambridge.
Match details
The game was a physical contest, with four yellow cards shown. Plymouth's Alex Mitchell and Tyreeq Bakinson were both booked in the first half, while Cambridge's Sullay Kaikai and Cathal Sean Heffernan Andrews also received cautions.
Statistically, Cambridge dominated possession with 60% and had 20 shots to Plymouth's eight. However, Plymouth were more clinical, putting five of their eight efforts on target. The visitors also relied on a strong defensive performance, with goalkeeper Tom Cleverley making four saves.
League context
This win marks Plymouth's third victory in their last five league matches, a run that includes a 2-1 win over AFC Wimbledon and a draw with Newport County. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with losses to Stevenage and Huddersfield Town preceding this result.
Pepple's penalty was his fourth goal of the season, making him the club's top scorer. The team has now scored 18 goals and conceded 17, giving them a positive goal difference for the campaign. It's a massive three points on the road against a tough side.'
Plymouth's next challenge is a home fixture against Reading on Saturday, 31 October. Reading currently sit sixth in the standings, one place below Plymouth, setting up a direct clash for a playoff position.
Plymouth manager Tom Cleverley confirmed his side's 3-2 win at Cambridge United on 24 October came after a tactical switch to a 3-4-3 formation. The victory moved Argyle to fourth in League One with 22 points. "I think we've got the players to do it," Cleverley told reporters, stating the change made his team unpredictable. The win ended a run of two defeats without a goal, with the club now preparing for a home game against fifth-placed Reading on 31 October.
