With 4 points now separating the Seasiders from the playoffs, time is beginning to run out for that long overdue push for the playoffs. Blackpool finally showcased their quality last Saturday, scoring 4 goals for the first time this season, but whether Blackpool can kick on from this remains to be seen. An inconsistent Plymouth visit Bloomfield Road on Saturday as Blackpool look to close the gap further and build on the triumph at Bradford.
Injuries and Suspension:
Both Conor Grant and Joel Grant are out for Argyle.
Jordan Thompson comes back into contention following internationals with Northern Ireland.
Mark Howard, Max Clayton and Jimmy Ryan are all out.
Ollie Turton could return from injury.
The History:
Also know as the Pilgrims, Plymouth were unfortunate to miss out on the playoffs last season, finishing in 7th position. Even this was quite remarkable though, as it came after an abysmal start made them one of the favorites for relegation. Plymouth have never been in the top division, although they have spent the majority of their existence in the top 4 divisions. Plymouth, following their establishment in 1886, are the largest city in England to have never had a side in the top flight. They play their home football at the 12,800 capacity Home Park, a ground that Blackpool snatched all three points at earlier in the season despite two Blackpool players getting sent off for violent misconduct.
Plymouth were promoted from League 2 in the 2016/17 season, winning the division on goal difference and they have carried their successes into League One, but Blackpool have won 5 out of their last 7 against Argyle.
The Manager:
43 year old Derek Adams has been at Plymouth since 2015 and in that time he has both gained promotion from League 2 and narrowly missed out on the playoffs last year. He has guided Plymouth away from the bottom 4 this year and into 14th position, but his team's starts to the last two seasons have cost him and the side greatly.
As a player he played mostly in Scotland, having been born in Glasgow. Playing as a midfielder, his main clubs were Ross County and Motherwell and his playing career ended during his second spell at County where he would eventually take over as manager. During his time there he almost caused a major upset, taking his side all the way to the final of the Scottish Cup in 2010. He would leave his role to become assistant at Hibernian, but would quickly return in 2011 and instantly guide Ross County to the Scottish Premiership. It was from this job that Adams would attract interest from Plymouth and make the move into English football. A move that so far has proved a success.
The Players:
Yann Sonogo'o - The French born centre back has been a rock for Plymouth this season and his experience in France, Spain, Scotland and America has proved invaluable. He has played 42 matches this season and his tall stature will certainly make things tough for the likes of Gnanduillet on Saturday.
Graham Carey - Player of the season in 2 of the last 3 years and, whilst only being on 5 goals this season, he has claimed 11 assists. He has played 190 times for Plymouth in total and has also played for Dublin, Huddersfield, Celtic, Ross County and St Mirren. Carey is a tricky midfielder and has a wand of a left foot and could prove difficult to stop.
Freddie Ladapo - Plymouth's main striker this season with 39 games and 16 goals, Lapodo has proven a successful signing for Plymouth. It has been a breakthrough season for the 26 year old and he could be tough to handle if on form.
Stats:
When it is examined why Plymouth are only 14th this year, look no further than the fact that the failed to win one of their first 11 league matches.Things have drastically improved since then though, as they have lost just 3 times in 2019 and have been tough to beat on many levels. One fatal floor remains however and this is their ability to concede too many. Argyle have conceded 1.56 on average and , despite going through a decent run of form, they are far from infallible. Blackpool have a fairly fresh squad and, off the back of such a convincing win,should theoretically get the points against such a mediocre side. Plymouth have some real quality though and will doubtlessly be full of fight and belief.
Last Meeting:
Interviews:
Prediction: 2-1
Blackpool will be full of confidence tomorrow and, although Plymouth are far from a bad side, I think the added incentive for the Seasiders will get them through. It will be a close, but it is a test that Blackpool can overcome. Every match is an opportunity now, but I wonder whether the prospect of a 12 point deduction may discourage Pool.