Match report for Plymouth Argyle U18 vs Oxford United U18 on 18 Aug 17

ARGYLE'S youngsters suffered a second consecutive defeat in a closely-fought EFL Youth Alliance League fixture at Langsford Park, Tavistock.

Argyle played attractive football until the final third of the pitch when the final ball let them down and it was two flashes of brillliance from Oxford striker Owen James that condemned the young Pilgrims to defeat.

The first half was largely forgettable, with James seeing his effort deflected wide of Max Childs' goal before Aaron Goulty's fine shot was superbly tipped onto the bar by Niall Clayton.

Argyle started the second period well with Mike Peck's 20-yard drive bringing out the best from Clayton before Goulty saw a goalbound effort deflected wide the the Oxford custodian stranded.

James was proving a constant thorn in the Argyle defence's side with one twisting run setting up Kyran Lofthouse but Harry Downing's fine challenge saved the day.

James then went on a 68th minute run that took him past Harry Hodges before pulling the ball back for Lofthouse to lash, low past Childs from eight yards.

Argyle were level, seven minutes from time, as Peck's left wing free-kick found Elliott Crawford heading home at the near post.

Home joy lasted just a minute as James showed great presence of mind to fire a low drive into the far corner of Childs' net from the angle of the area.

Argyle: Max Childs, Harry Hodges, Rio Garside, Tom Purrington, Harry Downing, Elliott Crawford, Michael Peck, Matt Ward, Aaron Goulty, Rubin Wilson (Billy Craske 74), Cameron Sangster. Substitutes not used: Adam Randell, Ollie Tomlinson, Jake Cribb.