Pilgrims' dismal away record remains a bone of contention

IT was a short comment in a much wider post-match assessment from Steven Schumacher of Plymouth Argyle's 4-0 defeat away by Championship leaders Leicester City but it was telling nonetheless.

- CHRIS ERRINGTON

"I know everyone keeps going on about the away record but it is what it is. We will keep doing as best as we can and eventually we will get that first win." 

It was an acknowledgment from Schumacher, who has achieved so much during his two years as Argyle manager, that his side's away Championship results this season have become an issue. It is the biggest single reason which could prevent the Pilgrims from achieving their main priority this season, which is avoiding relegation back to League One.

How much concern there is about the away results among the Argyle players, Schumacher and his staff can only be speculated at. Publicly, though, they will probably try to play it down.

That is perfectly understandable, but outside the dressing room among supporters and the media it is definitely a talking point and as good as Argyle's results have been at Home Park this season - 19 points out of a possible 30 is very good - it is threatening to undermine their season.

Argyle's record of no wins, three draws and now 10 defeats on the road is now on the radar of people nationally, not just in this part of the world. It is not going to be ignored.