Next Up: Plymouth Argyle at Home

It’s Devon Derby time, and with it the usual early kick-off, ticketing fuss and special arrangements for supporters. Let’s hope another recent tradition, that of City performing poorly in derbies, isn’t extended to the visit of that lot down the A38 this weekend! A sudden spate of injuries in the run-up to the magnificent win at Fleetwood hampered Paul Tisdale’s selection plans, meaning a very inexperienced bench (including new non-contract signing James Hamon on the bench), although a few of those who’d have expected to feature in the 18 at Fleetwood returned to action in the 4-1 U21 Cup win over Torquay in midweek – most notably Jimmy Keohane. Danny Butterfield made a somewhat enforced debut in the second half at Highbury a couple of weeks earlier than planned, but it is doubtful that he’ll be fit enough to start on Saturday.

Now in his first full season in charge of the Pilgrims, John Sheridan entered the campaign hopeful of a push up the table, but it has been a stuttering start so far, and Plymouth currently sit 15th in the table. The obvious problem appears to be in front of goal, Plymouth haven’t scored now since Reuben Reid’s late winner against Bristol Rovers nearly a month ago. Last week saw a 0-0 draw with the division’s whipping boys, Accrington. That said, there is plenty of firepower available to Sheridan, such as the aforementioned Reid, back on loan at the club where he started his career, and Marvin Morgan, who particularly caught the eye during a spell at Aldershot. Benin International Romauld Boco signed from Accrington in the summer but has yet to really get going, while City know that with Connor Hourihane in the side they will have to be on their toes. Guy Branston at the back provides some stability.

Last season saw City pick up a paltry two points from the twelve available against their Devon foes. The corresponding fixture last season ended 1-1 – Liam Sercombe opened the scoring for City before Joe Lennox equalised in the second half, with Maxime Blanchard seeing red for visitors late on. The return ended 1-0 to Plymouth, a Jason Banton goal on the stroke of half-time continuing City’s late slump. Overall in Football League fixtures Plymouth have the upper hand, 30 wins to City’s 21 (25 draws).

Match Officials: http://www.exeweb.com/2013/10/02/match-officials-plymouth-argyle-at-home/

Our unique guide to St James park for visiting fans. http://www.exeweb.com/2012/05/29/the-things-you-need-to-know-st-james-park-exeter/