Fifteen league games without a win for Plymouth Argyle finally at an end! Tom Harris rates the players in the decisive victory.

A brace from super sub Ryan Hardie gave Plymouth Argyle their first win under Miron Muslic, as they came from behind to beat West Brom 2-1 at Home Park.

In an even contest, it was the visitors who took the lead when Jayson Molumby fired home from close range after Nikola Kastic was caught in possession.

But Argyle once again showed the grit that has provided many magical late moments this season, when Hardie netted twice to get a much-needed three points.

Hardie composed himself to beat former Pilgrim Alex Palmer from the penalty spot and then doubled his tally in the 88th minute, firing a low drive across goal to earn victory.

Here are the ratings from the game.

Conor Hazard, GK – 7. The keeper produced an excellent second half double save from a corner to keep Albion at bay at 0-0 during the second half. He also started the move for the second Argyle goal with some quick thinking when he hurled the ball out to Puchacz.

Matty Sorinola, RWB – 7. Preferred to Bali Mumba at wing back, Sorinola put in a fantastic defensive display nullifying both Mikey Johnston and Karlan Grant throughout the afternoon. He had an opportunity in the second half to open the scoring but Palmer smothered the ball at the feet of the full back.

Maksym Talovierov, RCB – 8. A flawless display from the new record signing. Not only did he win aerial duels with ease, but he showed off a range of passing with some delightful cross field balls, and most impressively won some big challenges, celebrating them as if he’d scored himself.

Nikola Kastic, CB – 7. A positive performance on debut having only signed the day befor,  Kastic won countless headers to avert danger and though his clearances weren’t always pretty, they were effective. Only downside of his game was when he was caught on the ball which led to the visitors opener. That aside, it was a great display before being subbed for Palsson.

Julio Pleguezuelo, LCB – 7. Kept his place despite the two new additions and had yet another solid display. He may lack the height of his two defensive partners but his fight and desire is admirable. It will be an interesting battle for that position when Kornel Szucs recovers from injury.

Tymoteusz Puchacz, LWB 9 POTM. What a terrific display from Puchacz, who thrived at left wing back. The loanee, playing in his natural position, had a hand in both goals, his cross led to the penalty which Hardie converted. Then he showed terrific vision and execution to set up the second, whipping a delightful ball through the defence to Hardie who eventually finished. A top display, some expert defending to go with it. This is exactly what Argyle will need to stay up.

Adam Randell, CM – 6. A slightly quieter display from Randell who didn’t see as much of the ball due to the dominance of West Brom. It’s clear to see he operates better with Houghton than with Gyabi, as this gives him the license to drive forward with the ball which he used to good effect at times.

Jordan Houghton, CM – 7. On his first Home Park start in a while, he broke up play on countless occasions to deny West Brom. He’s struggled for minutes this season but Argyle look more secure on and off the ball when Houghton is in the team.

Michael Baidoo, RAM – 4. Muslic revealed after the game Baidoo has been suffering with illness in the build up to the game. If that’s the case, maybe he can be forgiven because he really struggled to get involved in the match and was subbed for Al Hajj at half time. So far, it’s fair to say he’s not lived up to the price tag.

Callum Wright, LAM – 6. Had a great opportunity in the first half but when faced one on one with the goalkeeper but the ball hit the back of his heels, thus squandering the golden opportunity. Created a good chance for Sorinola after the break and was eventually substituted for Ryan Hardie later in the half.

Mustapha Bundu, ST – 7. Led the line as a number nine and held the ball up well for Argyle at times. Made life difficult for the West Brom defence and eased the pressure on Argyle’s defence with his hold up play. Subbed for Obafemi after the break.

Subs

Rami Al Hajj – 6. Half time replacement for Baidoo and the summer addition provided a bit more physicality to the game. He’s certainly developed his understanding of the league and was up for the physical battle against Mason Holgate and Darnell Furlong.

Ryan Hardie – 9.  It feels harsh to not give him the man of the match but what a performance it was by Hardie, notching two goals to give Argyle victory. Introduced on the right side, his pace caused Weat Brom endless problems and he took his two goals superbly well. Is this a turning point in his, and Argyle’s season?

Michael Obafemi – 6. The Irish striker was brought on up front and had a massive opportunity to put Argyle 2-1 up when Hardie’s cut back found the Burnley loanee, but his first time shot was well parried away by Alex Palmer. Following the rumours of missed training sessions earlier in the season, it was good to see Muslic praise Obafemi’s training levels this week. I feel there’s still more to come from him this season.

Victor Palsson – N/A. Replaced the fatigued Kastic with 12 to go and didn’t put a foot wrong as Argyle claimed victory.

Darko Gyabi – N/A. His fresh legs helped see the game out as he replaced Houghton late on.