Schuey fumes after Argyle's worst display for some time

STEVEN Schumacher called it ‘by far the worst performance that we have had in ages’ after his much-changed Plymouth Argyle team lost 4-1 to Bristol City at Ashton Gate.

- CHRIS ERRINGTON

The Pilgrims’ boss took the decision to shake up his side for what was the second of three Championship matches in eight days, with only four players retaining their places from the 2-1 defeat at Preston North End on Saturday.

Schumacher made a sweeping seven changes, with Lewis Warrington, Tyreik Wright and Ben Waine making their first Championship starts, while Bali Mumba, Ryan Hardie and Morgan Whittaker were among those who dropped down to the substitutes’ bench.

Argyle conceded two goals in a torrid opening eight minutes and when they went off at half-time trailing 3-1 there were loud boos from sections of a very disgruntled 3,000-strong travelling Green Army.

On his team selection, Schumacher said: “The thinking behind it was obviously it was a tough game on Saturday. It took a lot out of everybody physically so we decided to make changes.

“I know seven sounds a lot. Four of them players that started the game tonight, though, are regular starters. Joe Edwards and Dan Scarr play virtually every game for us.

“Callum Wright was our best player for the majority of the end of last season, and Adam Randell has played loads of games. There is not an issue with them four players coming into the team.