Fortunes differ for Argyle and Exeter after Devon derby

THE outcome of derby matches can be more than just about three points, they can define the following weeks and even months as well, and that has certainly been the case for Plymouth Argyle since they lost to arch rivals Exeter City.

- By CHRIS ERRINGTON

There has been a wave of pessimism surrounding the Pilgrims and their prospects for the rest of the League One campaign after being beaten 2-0 at St James Park on October 23. It was a defeat which was more comprehensive than the scoreline might suggest.

Argyle have lost another couple of games since then, the first being a 2-0 league defeat away to Mansfield Town last Tuesday when they conceded an early opening goal after what can only be politely described as a defensive mix-up.

A third consecutive 2-0 defeat for the Pilgrims followed when they went to Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday in the Emirates FA Cup first round, with Cauley Woodrow getting two second half goals for the Chairboys, the first from the penalty spot.