Tom Harris reviews the players in a rather forgettable draw…
Argyle were forced to settle for a point in a underwhelming 1-1 draw with Wigan
In a game which frankly neither side deserved to win it was Argyle who took the lead when Lorent Tolaj dinked home from the penalty spot in the 70th minute.
It looked like Argyle were on course for back to back victories but Fraser Murray’s powerful drive, after Argyle failed to clear their lines, levelled the scoreline with just 8 minutes of the 90 to play.
Here are the ratings from the game
Conor Hazard, GK – 6.
Given the armband, Hazard made a few routine saves on his Home Park league return, his kicking in blustery conditions was accurate and set Argyle away on multiple occasions…may be slightly disappointed not to save Murray’s equaliser, which was fairly central.
Matty Sorinola, RB – 6.
Argyle’s Mr Dependable should have been booked for a late lunge in the first half but he got away with and remained card free throughout which is a blessing given Argyle’s unavailable list this season. He also had a few crosses blocked as Argyle struggled to create anything of note.
Mathias Ross, CB – 7.
Ross dealt with Saydee reasonably well leaving the Wigan striker with little opportunities throughout. However, he was out of position for their goal as he was chasing back following the corner. Looks a great signing on a free.
Brendan Wiredu, LCB – 6.
Although he is more comfortable in defence than midfield, it was not a game breaking display from Wiredu. His throws though long aren’t quite as powerful as the ones from Szucs and weren’t to any effect in this game.
Brendan Galloway, LCB – 6.
Back off on international duties next week, Galloway was introduced on the left of the three with Mitchell unavailable. Again, nothing major to shout about but good minutes in the tank considering his injury record.
Bali Mumba, LWB – 6.
I thought Argyle looked most dangerous in the first half when Mumba was left one v one with his man however he was unable to find the final ball on multiple occasions much to the disappointment of the fans.
Law McCabe, CM – 6.
Although it wasn’t his finest performance, I was slightly bemused to see him subbed off early in the second half. McCabe has showed he’s got an eye for a line-breaking pass which could have troubled the Wigan defence. However he was swapped in place of Paterson who was deemed not fully fit to start.
Malachi Boateng, CM – MOTM 8.
In a game that won’t live long in the memory, Argyle’s Mr Consistent produced a good display, winning countless tackles, chasing back to help out his side and more. He’s easily been Argyle’s player of the season so far.
Tegan Finn, ACM – 6.
The youngster was handed a start but struggled to get involved in the first half. That said, he made a few nice runs and is never scared to take on his man. Good experience for him.
Owen Oseni, ST – 6. Despite their good chemistry last week, he and Tolaj didn’t quite connect on the day. Should have had an opportunity on goal but play was wrongfully pulled back for a foul by the referee, else we could have seen Oseni on the scoresheet again.
Lorent Tolaj, ST – 7.
Even in a game of few thrills Tolaj manages to get you off your seat. Was so unlucky not to score in the first half when he rattled the bar from a neat corner routine. Did get his goal though with a frankly saucy panenka in front of the Devonport End from the penalty spot. It ought to have won the game but it was not to be.
Subs:
Jamie Paterson, CM – 5. Coming back from an absence, he was introduced early in the second half for McCabe as he gets fully up to speed following a calf injury. Failed to stamp his mark on this game though.
Bim Pepple, ST – 5. The Canadian like for like swap for Oseni up top and caused Wigan’s defence some issues but had no major chances of note.