For one last look at the weekend’s heroic win, Tom Harris rates the players from Plymouth Argyle’s historic victory over Liverpool.
Plymouth Argyle produced one of the greatest days in Home Park history as they defeated Premier League leaders Liverpool 1-0 in the FA Cup fourth round.
Ryan Hardie’s 52nd minute penalty was the decisive moment of the fixture, after Harvey Elliott had clearly handled the ball in the box. Hardie’s finish was carbon copy of his penalty equaliser against West Brom just over a week earlier, as he buried his shot into the bottom left corner.
Argyle’s defence, revitalised since Muslic’s arrival and aided by signings Katic and Talovierov, played their part with multiple last ditch efforts to prevent their high-flying visitors from finding the back of the net. Even when they were beaten on the rare occasion, keeper Conor Hazard conjured up unbelievable saves to keep the Reds at bay and the Greens on course for the fifth round.
Here are the ratings from the fixture.
Conor Hazard GK – 9. The most important part of being a goalie is being alert at all times. Although Hazard didn’t have many saves to make, in the dying minutes he sealed the win for Argyle with terrific stops from Jota and Nunez. Excellent once again, this more direct style of play suits him too.
Matty Sorinola RWB – 9. Not many can say they’ve kept Luis Diaz quiet this season. Sorinola put in a tremendous display to subdue the Colombian international. Countless blocks, interventions and gutsy challenges from Sorinola. He embodies everything that Mulisic wants from his players and is thriving in this system.
Maksym Talovierov RCB – 9. Argyle’s record signing looks like he’s been part of that defence for two decades rather than two weeks. His passion and commitment combined with his eye for a tackle are exactly what Argyle required in this game and for the rest of the season. Superb.
Nicola Katic CB – 9 MOTM. 17 clearances, a lost tooth, and a clean sheet later, Kastic wins my man of the match with an Utterly outstanding display. Heading every ball, getting the defensive line up as one. He made seasoned Premier League strikers scared to contend for the ball, such was his dominance. Can we make his loan permanent at the end of the season?
Julio Pleguezeulo LCB – 7. Gave Liverpool nothing down the left side of the three, regularly chirping in to win back possession for Argyle. Looked to pick up a knock and was substituted for Palsson, hopefully he’s fit for Wednesday as that back three had a great chemistry between them.
Tymo Puchasz LB – 8. Argyle should be looking to make him a permanent addition at the end of the season, he clearly loves the club. Another passionate display from Tymo who is always keen to get forward, but also showed his defensive colours well
Adam Randell CM – 7. Such was the direct style of play from Argyle it wasn’t the type of game for Randell who still held his own against Liverpool’s youthful midfield. Earned a standing ovation when he was substituted, he deserved a rest after playing so many full games in a tough midfield this season. A proud moment to lead Argyle out as captain in such a historic occasion.
Darko Gyabi CM – 7. Eyebrows were raised when Gyabi came in for Houghton but in fairness Gyabi had a much improved outing compared to recent affairs. He was able to break up play and drive Argyle forward time after time. Won the all-important penalty when his flick was handled by Harvey Elliott.
Callum Wright LAM – 7. A dream come true for the boyhood Liverpool fan. Wright was part of an Argyle press that Liverpool struggled to break through for the majority of the game. He nearly came up with an assist too, but Tijani’s late header was well blocked.
Ryan Hardie RAM – 8. It’s a different side of the game than we’re used to seeing, but Hardie’s energy was exactly what was needed to stop Liverpool down their strong left hand side. Argyle’s number nine had the composure to smash home the penalty too in the second half to put his name in FA Cup folklore.
Mustapha Bundu ST – 7. Another solid performance from Bundu playing as the main outlet up top. Liverpool simply couldn’t deal with the forward who won countless headers, and kept the Liverpool defence busy at all times. Could have had a goal for himself but for a last ditch tackle right toward the end of the first half. Picked up a needless yellow, before being replaced by Tijani.
Substitutions:
Victor Palsson – 7. Replaced Pleguezuelo and played his part to see out the victory against his former side with some resolute defending.
Malachi Boateng – 7. Not many make their club debut against Premier League giants Liverpool. Boateng slotted in nicely in midfield and helped break up play with his physicality.
Mohammed Tijani – 6. Back on the pitch at Home Park for the first time in a while following a hamstring injury. Needs more minutes to get up to speed, expected him to use his build to more effect against Wauturo Endo.
Michael Obafemi – N/A. A late substitute for Ryan Hardie.