PLYMOUTH v BORO
at Home Park - Saturday 21 December 2024 - KO 3.00pm
It’s Christmas week coming up, so, of course, at a time of year when football supporters could traditionally look forward to local derbies, and motoring organisations are urging drivers not to travel unless necessary the EFL fixture list has determined that the Boro team and their fans will have to undertake a round trip of over 750 miles to see a match.
It’s roughly about the distance that the three wise men travelled from Babylon to Bethlehem.
For the modern traveller that should be around 14 hours by either train or road. But in post-Brexit, post-Tory Britain you can safely add on another 4 hours with a realistic prospect that you may arrive by bus, or never get to your destination at all.
You can choose! Although, of course you could choose to go to the Canaries and back, twice, in the same amount of time.
So Christmas week for the Boro will begin in the beautiful city of Plymouth, Hoe, ho, ho. And appropriately for this time of year, the folly of the EFL’s fixture committee brought to mind Marx’s belief that in civil society we should all have a legal entitlement to a sanity clause if a party to any agreement is demonstrably not of sound mind.
For the political philosophers on Diasboro, and the purposes of academic rigour, here is the relevant reference to the seminal Marxist text.
And so to the match. After the recent tough run of fixtures in which the Boro acquitted themselves reasonably well, we begin a series of matches all of which appear eminently winnable and offer the realistic possibility of significantly reducing our points deficit in the promotion race.
After Saturday’s game we meet Sheffield Wednesday (H), Burnley (H), Hull ( A), Cardiff(H), and Portsmouth (A).
But first up is Plymouth and, for most Boro fans, the most lip-smacking prospect of all for a high scoring victory.
After all Argyle are rooted in the relegation zone with only Hull beneath them. And even more significantly they have by some margin the weakest defence in the Championship. Their goal difference of -23 is more than twice that of even Hull’s.
Only a couple of weeks ago they shipped no fewer than 10 goals in 4 days against Norwich and Bristol City, results which provoked their manager to say that his U18s would have put up much more of a show than his first team squad had.
So Boro, playing well at the moment, will be facing a side which has lost its last four games, drawn the previous two, and has not had a sniff of victory since their narrow 1-0 win at home to fellow strugglers, third from bottom Portsmouth, back on Bonfire Night.
They have a beleaguered manager in Wayne Rooney, a squad decimated by long-term injuries to their best players, including Morgan Whittaker and talismanic skipper, Joe Edwards, and confidence presumably at a pretty low ebb.
So the auguries for the Boro could scarcely be more propitious.
But this is the Boro and we have been here before. Many many times.
My own view is that if the Boro go down to Devon thinking that this is an easy fixture we will come a cropper. We will need to be at our very best to come away with three points.
This isn’t simply every supporter’s version of Sod’s Law: that if something can go wrong for their team then it will. There is good evidence that there may be more to Saturday’s game than immediately meets the eye.
For example in their last game Argyle faced a rather more daunting task that playing the Boro on their own turf at Home Park.
Against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane they faced a team which had won nine and drawn one of their previous ten home games. Plymouth’s away form, by contrast, was almost a mirror image of this. They had garnered a mere two points from ten away games, having lost eight of them.
In other words, in the Championship league table based purely on home form Sheffield United are joint top with Leeds.
By contrast in the league table based purely on away form Plymouth are rooted to the bottom.
So what happened last Saturday when Sheffield United entertained Plymouth?
Well Chris wilder’s men won 2-0.
So no surprise then.
But look at the main stats for the match:
| Sheff Utd | Plymouth | |
| 2 | Goals | 0 |
| 10 | Shots | 12 |
| 3 | Shots on target | 4 |
| 36.8% | Possession | 63.2% |
| 234 | Successful passes | 479 |
| 48 | Long passes | 65 |
| 2 | Corners | 3 |
The figures are eye-catching and revelatory.
I saw some of the game and in the first half Argyle did play United off the park. Over all they dominated the match, spurned a number of easy chances including one sitter and were denied any points by a screamer from outside the box by Hamer (remember him?) and a very late penalty.
Wilder’s lengthy post-match interview trotted out excuses about fixture congestion, and a small squad depleted by injuries, all of which factors seemed to apply much more to his opponents than to his own team.
Pilgrims’ supporters will be hoping that the game has marked some kind of turning point. Wayne Rooney was joined last week by his old coach Mike Phelan, who many moons ago was being considered as a possible Boro boss. Perhaps it was his influence that produced two major changes. Plymouth played like a team rather than a collection of individuals. And their recent signing, the Swede, Al Hajj, hitherto a great disappointment, had his best game of the season at No 10.
The other factor which could well catch Boro out is Argyle’s home record as come-back kings. Boro are no strangers to throwing away commanding positions as we saw at Norwich and Watford, and Plymouth’s record of getting the crowd behind them and securing points in injury time is second to none in the division.
Indeed they rescued a point after being 0-3 down to Preston, with a 90(+2)minutes equaliser. Even more outstanding was their inflicting a 3-2 defeat on a previously unbeaten Sunderland, the winner coming at 90(+4) mins. And most recently they rescued an improbable point with a last gasp 2-2 equaliser against an astonished Watford in 90(+5) mins.
Boro had some experience of this last season when, having secured a 2-3 lead with half an hour to go, the home crowd got behind their team, Boro finally succumbing to an equaliser after defending waves of attacks in a memorable 3-3 draw.
And my final cautionary note is that whilst Argyle’s record this season is undoubtedly very poor, their home form, particularly against good opposition, isn’t so bad. They have beaten the two strongest teams they have played in Sunderland and Blackburn as well as having wins against Luton and Portsmouth.
So Boro cannot take this game lightly. They need to be at it for the full 90 minutes and beyond. Any repetition of the first 15 minutes against Millwall and all bets are off.
In spite of the lowly opposition this is a big game. Its result could be season defining for both clubs.
Can Boro resume their high-scoring exploits of November and reignite hopes of a top two finish.? And for Plymouth was that Sheffield performance a significant turning point or simply another false dawn?
For Finn Azaz it will be a more personal journey, a return to a club and a crowd that retains a great affection for him. I expect him to be greeted as warmly as Duncan Watmore was by the Riverside faithful in what was a memorable moment from last week’s match.
Who knows Boro might at last be the beneficiaries of the tradition of old boys scoring against their former clubs. But don’t be surprised if it turns out to be Adam Forshaw who comes off the bench and scores what would be his first goal of the season.
Tactically Carrick, Rooney and Phelan are all from the same stable so we can expect both sides to play out from the back, a high press from both teams, some costly mistakes and hopefully plenty of goals.
In spite of my caveats Boro should win, though I wouldn’t rule out another high scoring draw.
I shall enter into the spirit of the season by having a glass of mulled wine as I watch the game in the company of my wife, Ivy, and my daughter, Holly (not really), and look forward to hearing from a chirpy Robin. If OFB goes for his traditional 1-3, he and I will be in full agreement, and all will seem well with the world.
So it’s a very happy and healthy Christmas from me to everyone on this wonderful blog and of course to all Boro fans, particularly those devoted souls who will be going to Plymouth. Merry Christmas everyone.
Acknowledgments and my sincere thanks to lifelong Plymouth supporter John Archer. I met John on holiday last month, when we shared many conversations about our respective teams . I spoke to John again just before I started writing this piece. I hope that I have done justice to the best of all sources on any team, the views of an intelligent and dedicated supporter. John is certainly that and a thoroughly charming gentleman too. Many thanks John and every success to the Pilgrims for the rest of the season... After Saturday.
Thanks Len for a pre-Christmas cracker of a preview that certainly started us off with a bang - plus also enjoyed the 'Marxist text' video too. Hopefully an early present of another three points awaits as long as the Boro defence doesn't give away any early presents!
OK, my carpet tiles have just arrived which means I'll be on my knees for the rest of the day - but if Mrs Werder doesn't accept my pleas I guess I'll have to lay them anyway...
Len,
A great starter and I loved the Sanity Clause. Brilliant stuff Len, thank you.
UTB,
John
A lovely piece Len, really enjoyable.
As for the match, a high scoring affair seems about right, 3-3 maybe but aided with a Boxing Day home win, would be a good Christmas starter.
Top quality (again), Len. As you know, I do like a collaboration with an opposition fan to get some balance - please thank John on our behalf.
I'm always amazed how many games over the festive period are high scoring ones. It’s almost as if some players have other things on their minds. Whatever the reason, we have to win this game - let’s hope MC has gem all focussed on victory.
I read today that Jones is looking for an out in January. I can under his nose being out of joint now that Doak has arrived, but I’d rather he knuckled down to win back his place. I’ve said it before, but it’s worth repeating that I think he could be a much better player if he could change his mental attitude - he’s got footballing skills but seems to have an attitude problem.
Enjoyable read Len. Thanks.
On paper and looking at League positions and recent results points to a banker away win. But Len’s looking behind the results and particularly at Plymouth’s performance against Sheffield United rightly introduces an air of caution. Perhaps Phelan’s introduction to help Rooney had the effect of having a new coach.
So, what is needed is a professional performance from the first minute to the last to ensure 3 points are credited to Boro. Anything less and any result is possible.
👍😁
Philip of Huddersfield
Another excellent opener Len, thank you, it was most informative and included a cautionary note, especially for the players.
I have also seen the report that Jones is looking for a January exit, strange as he only signed a new contract in April tying him to the club until 2027 but it might mean we will get a decent price if any club is willing to take the chance on him.
Come on BORO.
Appreciated and well spotted Werder. I don't think I managed to achieve the elevated heights of cracker humour but hoped that, in the spirit of the season, everyone might extend their normal tolerance to my attemptThanks Len for a pre-Christmas cracker of a preview
Thank you Len for an excellent festive piece.
Earlier in the week I was looking at the form table statistics and they show exactly what you have highlighted, Plymouth may be second bottom of the table but they are no mugs on their own turf; in fact they have lost fewer games at home than the Boro!
This Saturday will be a tough a challenge, if not more of a challenge than last week and whilst ideally we need another win against a team below us, a point would not be a disaster but hopefully we can bring back all three to kick off a fruitful festive period.
Best wishes to one and all across the Diasboro. 😎
Len great stuff well thought out (as usual and also made everyone think this is not going to be as easy a game as we hope it’s going to be!
Hopefully the Holly won’t prick our self belief in getting a result and our performance doesn’t get poisoned by Ivy!
But hark is that the herald angels singing of a Boro victory?
Nah !
Its just an old Robin croaking out a familiar tweet guess what it is ??
Boro3 takes centre stage once more and even though we may concede a first minute goal due to a defensive mistake we will still run out 3-1 winners.
Merry Xmas everyone and thanks again Len for your Sterling efforts it’s appreciated !
OFB
Thank you @lenmasterman. An excellent piece of writing to remind us all at this time of year, just what a Wonderful Life it is, having access to so much good reading in this blog. Perfect for time Home Alone or even when staying away at the Holiday Inn.
So, while dreams of a White Christmas might seem to be a little optimistic for most of us this year, a good win on Saturday might help to keep alive the dream of automatic promotion. What is it about us all, besotted by this team in red and white. I suppose it is Love Actually. Whatever, let's all hope that this Saturday isn't going to be The Nightmare Before Christmas. I'l be happy enough with an early Christmas present of a scrappy 1-0 win.
Fingers crossed.
Nice article about Dael Fry and his comment that he hasn’t felt so fit which augurs well for the rest of the season.
OFB
Plymouth boss Wayne Rooney has claimed he is focused on bringing in more players in January despite pressure rising on his position following four successive defeats.
The Manchester United legend is under fire following a number of damaging losses - the latest being a 2-0 defeat Sheffield United on Saturday - leading to speculation he could be sacked after Argyle slipped to 23rd in the Championship table.
OFB
It’s a Wonderful Life supporting the Boro. Sometimes when I’ve been to the Riverside my enthusiasm has been known to Die Hard. I’ve trudged off to my Home Alone, wishing we had a Scrooge like defence against lesser teams whilst dispensing the rhetoric Bah Humbug to members of the family.
I remember the days when at Xmas I used to smuggle in my hip flask full of malt whiskey and went home with a countenance like Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.
Boro fans always looks forward to the Xmas break and almost always results don’t go our way and it ends up like National Lampoons Xmas Vacation.
So for this Xmas Story don’t expect a Miracle on 34th Street, as it could be bad for your Elf !
Hopefully we won’t have Gremlins in our defence and a Bad Santa in the shape of Wayne Rooney.
I would like to see Sol Brynn retain his place in goal rather than Edward Scissorhands (otherwise known as Seny Dieng !)
I hope that Boro will be Trading Places with teams currently above them in the Championship promotion standings.
We don’t want this game to be a Nightmare before Christmas and that this will turn out to be our Happiest Season for some years.
Me? I’m just a Family Man and if we lose on Saturday it will be a very Silent Night. Now if we win? My support for Boro is Love Actually.
Let’s face it as I said at the beginning, supporting the Boro is a Wonderful Life !
Merry Xmas everyone
OFB
Thank you, Len, for a superlative opener. In a very strong field of Diasboro openers, and against very stiff opposition, yours is currently leading in the ‘Starter of the Season’ vote. It’s wonderful.
You also highlight exactly what it is about being a Boro fan and the anxiety psychoses we all carry with us! We all know that Boro should win at Plymouth, but your analysis clearly tells us that we (and Carrick and his squad) can take nothing for granted. This is a game we really must win. I’ll breathe a huge sigh of relief on Saturday if we come away with the 3 points.
Meanwhile, thanks to everyone for all your continued efforts on this forum. I wish you all a very merry, happy (and relieved ) Christmas.
@original-fat-bob Oh no..... looks like I let the Genie Out of the bottle ..... what was that (Oh no you didn't) Lovely use of many more films than I dared to consider.
Away to Plymouth, don't like these games, based on form and talent we should win, but we've seen to many times, it goes out of the window, they have at times outplayed the opposition but didn't get their rewards, they are.missing Whitaker their talisman
The worry is teams pick themselves up when they see a team like Boro bring a big following, the top eight seem to be stretching a little ,so it hurts when you win and they do, hence last week's win didn't make much of an impact, Blackburn eight games on the trot, we've got to be really pragmatic going forward,mixing attacking with solidity at times in the game.
Only half way through the season , but you don't want to allow yourself later on to be depending on other results.
COB
Work Christmas night out tonight. I am, as some would observe, alcoholicallly compromised as I sit on the (very) late bus home from Edinburgh to Perth. But I just wanted to say just how much I love every single one of you. This is a special place, with very special people. My only apology is that I need to be half cut to post this.
Love you all.
A great intro. I think my Boronoia is creeping in and I fear the worst tomorrow.
There was a video on Facebook today with Morris and Tommy Conway rating Christmas Dinner foods so he is definitely at training.
Does anybody know if there’s a live TV stream of our Plymouth game on Saturday? I presume they’re no longer on BoroLive?
@clive-hurren. Yes Clive they are on Borolive. If you have a subscription and have a VPN then you can watch if you are in the UK.
Thanks KP.
@lenmasterman hits the bullseye again. A really good read so "Thank you", Len.
@powmill-naemore : You are right: there are some special people who use/write for/read this blog. You are, of course, one of the Blog's pillars. I hope you got home safely and didn't end up spending the night curled up on one of the Inches!
@jarkko - It is normally about now that a card arrives from you and from Eija, and this year has proved no different. Is it a typical thing for people in Finland to send Christmas cards through the post? I think I saw an expat on YouTube who said the practice wasn't common in the USA so although I get one from you I had assumed it was mostly a British and Commonwealth "thing". I must say that I am useless at sending cards. When I was working, and wherever I worked, we had an "agreement" between the men that we didn't send cards to the other men. But the female members of staff in each case used to send cards to each other and to the men they worked with, so I would only send a card to my secretary, the receptionists and women at work with whom I had regular contact. Anyway, Jarkko, and despite my not having sent you a card, it was good to see your card (and your local river!). Thanks!
I have also enjoyed reading the comments by members of the Blog in response to Len's piece. Thanks to all of you who have on occasions throughout this season so far (and the second half of the last season) made me smile, made me think and, on occasions, made me wonder why we all follow the Boro. There can be no sensible reason for following the Boro other than we are fated to do so by being born near to "our" football club, or we have lived/worked nearby. Jarkko has no such excuse but has been chosen by fate to follow our team. You'd have thought he'd be safe from Boro's charms in Finland but, to our good fortune, that proved to be wrong and he is clearly as smitten as the rest of us. The club is lucky to have him as a supporter.
Merry Christmas to you all, and a Happy New Year. In previous decades that would have meant my going to the local pubs and, especially on New Year's Eve, fighting against the hordes of drinkers (who only visit the pub a few times a year) in order to get a drink, and then visiting family and friends for more drinks/nibbles/partying. Too old and tired for that now. For me it will be a bottle of Champagne (or a couple if I'm lucky) with a few nibbles in front of the TV and then retiring to bed probably not long after 1am on New Year's Day! In previous years it would have meant maybe staying up until 6am on 1st January, but being up and ready waiting for the publican at the Boiled Bat to open his front door at 12 noon. I used to take a chair and something to read in case he was late - in a battle to see who had better survived the previous night. Sadly that pub, and publican, are no more. All the more reason for the rest of us to enjoy ourselves over this Festive Season, and generally. Good Health everyone!
My angst about todays game has just gone up a few notches. Having looked up the records we haven't lost at Home Park in a league game since 1964, we did lose a cup tie there in 1973. Referee today is Will Finnie who has never refereed us before.
@lenmasterman An excellent starter there again. I really enjoyed it. And you rightly reminded us, that Plymouth has played well indeed even though the results have not followed. Even our dear friend Wilder said that the Pilgrims were the better team at Sheffield last time around. He said he made a mistake (!) as he chose the same team as in the prevoius match and Plymouth ran them off the park even they lost by 2-0.
@dormo Yes, the Christmas cards are a very Finnish habbit, too. But I must admit, that the younger generations are not doing it as often as my generation. I have photographed the Xmas cards by myself for well over 20 yeards now and want to keep the tradition, as I know some friends and relatives are waiting to see our card every year as it is more personal.
Anyway, as I have two sisters and three brothers - and my three children have about 15 or 16 cousins - the Chistmas cards in our way of keeping in touch, too.
When I was a yound boy, it was as common to send cards to one's relatives for Easter. I have never send one for Easter as an adult, and I have persnally received an Easter card from my mother and one other relative in modern times. I do not know why that tradition disappeared after 1970's, though.
So a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone at the blog! I hope we will get three points today and the Pilgrims have their normal bad day at the office again - or better still, tat we play really well. We need the points, too but they will be fighting against relagation as hard as they can.
Up the Boro!
Many thanks for our Xmas card which we received recently from you and your family.
For the past few years we have donated monies in lieu of card expenditure to various charities and quite a lot of people are doing the same in the U.K.
Your card and sentiments are appreciated and wish you a wonderful Xmas and a happy new 2025. ( and promotion for Boro3 !)
OFB
We still send cards to friends and relatives (regardless of whether they send one back 😉). Lots of people genuinely like receiving them, particularly those who are many miles away with limited opportunity to meet up during the year.
I do sort of understand the switch to Charitable donation instead, but I know lots of people would be disappointed if they didn’t get one from us. We do enough regular charity giving throughout the year for any guilt to be assuaged.
Anyway, the family are starting to arrive for Xmas with the first tranche firmly ensconced in the cottage we’ve rented for them round the corner. Last night was a first for me - we made use of one of the hot tubs (the other’s outside, which is a step too far for me) - I don’t think I’ll be buying one any time soon!