On Strike

THE striking difference about Argyle over Christmas has been exactly that.

In Reuben Reid, the Pilgrims possess one of Sky Bet League 2’s leading marksmen. Since he joined forces with fellow on-loan striker Caolan Lavery three games ago, Reuben has scored four of Argyle’s six goals in their two wins and a draw over the Christmas period; Caolan has bagged the other two.

The pair will lead the line in the New Year’s Day Devon Derby against Torquay United at Home Park looking as the Pilgrims start the second half of their league campaign in decent fettle.

Argyle manager John Sheridan is not the least bit surprised that Reuben, who is on a season-long loan from Yeovil, is coming up with the goods.

“I expected that – that’s why I signed him,” said John.

“It’s no surprise he’s got 12 goals. I’ve stood by him and played him in nearly every game, and he’s getting his rewards for his hard work.

“I try to talk about the team and the squad – it’s all about the team and the squad; Reuben is getting all the plaudits because he’s scoring goals but it’s a team effort and that’s why we’re winning games and getting results. We’re playing well and looking quite confident in ourselves.”

The strike partnership will continue after Wednesday’s derby after Coalan’s employers agreed to extend his loan deal for a month beyond its original New Year’s Day expiry date.

John said: “I’ve spoken to Sheffield Wednesday and they have allowed him to stay. They are short of strikers and I was a bit worried he wouldn’t be able to, but, thankfully, they have let us have him and I appreciate that.

“He gives us something a little bit different. He plays off the shoulder and works his socks off up front. He’ll run the channels and try and get in behind people.

“Again, he’s part of a team that is doing alright.”