Pilgrims lack a cutting edge in defeat

PLENTY OF GOOD PLAY BUT NO END PRODUCT FROM ARGYLE

- CHRIS ERRINGTON

Argyle could not beat top-of-the-table opposition for a second consecutive Saturday as they lost 1-0 to West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns.

The Pilgrims had beaten previous table-toppers Sunderland 3-2 at Home Park the weekend before but despite producing a performance which had plenty of positives about it they were beaten by West Brom as they extended their unbeaten start to the Championship campaign to six games, with 16 points out of a possible 18.

West Brom had three shots against a post in a goalless first half, while Morgan Whittaker had a couple of good opportunities for Argyle, with one shot saved by former Pilgrims’ loan signing Alex Palmer and another attempt sent over the bar.

Argyle made a good start to the second period but it was West Brom who broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute with a close rage finish from striker Josh Maja and that proved to be the difference between the sides at full-time.

The Pilgrims came up with some build-up play during the game and were comfortable passing the ball out of defence but their attacks lacked a cutting edge to them, which they needed against opposition who have yet to concede a goal at home this term.

Wayne Rooney made two changes to Argyle’s starting line-up for the visit to the league leaders, with Adam Forshaw and Ryan Hardie coming into the side for Callum Wright and Michael Obafemi. Forshaw slotted into central midfield alongside Adam Randell, with Darko Gyabi pushed further forward into the number 10 role, while Hardie replaced Obafemi in attack.

Argyle were captained by Joe Edwards, who had signed a contract extension with the club on Friday until the end of the 205/26 season after his fine form at the start of this term.

West Brom had played their opening five Championship games with the same team, but boss Carlos Corberan was forced into one change against the Pilgrims.