The Dominic Effect

DOMINIC Blizzard hopes that his spectacular winner in Argyle’s 1-0 victory at Luton has marked the end of an injury-blighted start to his Home Park career...

...and the beginning of a “big season” for the Pilgrims.

Dom’s 68th-minute goal at Kenilworth Road took Argyle to eighth place in Sky Bet League 2. It came in his first start of the current campaign, following a summer which has been hampered by a thigh problem.

“I came back for pre-season in probably the best shape I’ve ever been in,” he said, “but I got a tear in my quad and this is the first game in about four months. I’m just delighted for the win, to be honest.

“I’ve been working really hard with [Performance Manager] John [Harbin] and [Head Physio] Paul [Atkinson]. It’s been really difficult coming back from injury when you felt so positive for pre-season but I’m happy because I’ve put a lot of work into getting myself back on the pitch.

“It’s an important year, so it’s been really, really difficult for me, but everyone’s been really good with me. They haven’t thrown me back in and have supported me very well.

“It’s probably the most difficult thing about being a professional footballer, being out injured, but you have to focus and work on being fit. I’m just thankful I’m back and feeling good.”

His appearance from the substitutes’ bench at Cambridge on the opening day of the season proved to be too much, too early.

“I maybe pushed myself back a little bit too soon,” said Dom. “It was far too early but I wanted to try to get fit. Since then, it’s probably been the best thing for me to get the training because I missed all the games and have been playing catch-up.

“I’m working hard and I’ve still got a lot of work to do to catch up on my fitness. Hopefully, I’ll knock out some of the rustiness I feel I’ve got, and kick on.

“Last season, I struggled with a few injuries which knocked me back a little bit and just never really got going. I’d play a few games, and then have an injury.

“I was tiring quite a bit towards the end today but I’ll be stronger next week for the 90 minutes today.

“This a big season for the club and for everyone, and especially myself, and I think we’ve got a good chance of being up and around the top of the league.”