Cosgrove's Charlton Reaction

Argyle had gone behind to an early goal in their Papa Johns Trophy tie with Charlton Athletic when Niall Ennis released Sam Cosgrove on the right flank.

Cosgrove advanced and, despite the narrowing angle, struck low and true past the goalkeeper and into the corner to put the Greens level just five minutes after they went behind.

Ennis scored just two minutes later, and a Caleb Roberts goal early in the second period effectively won the tie for Argyle, although Charlton grabbed a late consolation.

Argyle fielded a side which, on the whole, was fairly inexperienced, but Cosgrove and Ennis were two senior players leading the line, and played considerable parts in helping Argyle progress to round three.

“We knew that with me and Niall up top, one of us was going to have to stretch the game at all times,” said Sam. “We did it well. We rotated, dropping in and getting the ball and threatening in behind as well. Niall’s been good all season and can pick those passes out. I knew that if I made those runs he would pick me out, and luckily I put it away.

“Early on in the season these games can be a bit of a chore, but coming into the knockout stages we know it is a chance to progress, to earn a bit of money and it’s a decent cherry at the end.

“Once the group stages fly by and the find yourself in the knockout rounds, you realise you have a chance of getting to Wembley and winning a trophy. It is something to aim for.”

By the end of the game, the Argyle side included seven teenagers, at various stages of development as apprentices or young professionals. All played their part, and not only will have gained vital experience in their burgeoning careers, but impressed Cosgrove no end.

“I think it is tough for them to come in,” he said. |Stepping up from youth team and reserve football to first-team football is a big step. The physicality is a big change. It is something they should get used to, but they really stood up to the challenge and didn’t look out of place. I’m really pleased with them.

“Credit to Charlton, too. They put out a young team who battled well and they caused us problems. But I think that is the best our young lads have been for us this season. I know the manager was very impressed, and I was impressed personally. They can take a lot of positives.”