Coventry City (A) | Edwards' Reaction
When leading out Argyle at Coventry City on Tuesday night, Joe Edwards was representing the Pilgrims for the 200th time.
In doing so, he became only the 70th player to do so in the club’s history, and his tally for Argyle is comfortably the most games he has played for any one side in his career.
Joe arrived at Home Park with Argyle having just been relegated to Sky Bet League Two. Now in his fifth season, and long-established as the club’s captain, Joe’s 200th appearance comes during a Championship campaign.
Two promotions have been at the heart of Joe’s era at the club, while on a personal level Edwards has demonstrated flexibility, hard work, leadership and no little quality in the course of bringing up a double century.
“I’m immensely proud,” said Joe. “It's a fantastic club to play for and to have the pleasure of playing 200 times is something I'll look back on and really cherish.
“Probably the most special reason why this club is so amazing is the fans and the distance they travel. We know how far it is because we have to do it too, so we appreciate the traveling that they do. Every home game is sold out at the moment and probably was for most of last season as well.
“It’s been amazing. We've had a fantastic journey so far. I had a specific goal when I signed under the new era - and we achieved it.
“Now we're looking to the next stage, and to improve again. To be a part of that still is fantastic. I've made a real home for myself. I'm lucky to be a part of that journey.”
On the night in which he reached his milestone, the Greens lost 1-0 to Coventry, via a questionable decision, as it looked as though a ball had gone out of play before a cutback set up Haji Wright to score the game’s only goal.
Argyle were not fluent on the evening, but in a game of precious few opportunities, looked on course to earn a point before the goal went in with 15 minutes to go.
“I was probably the closest to it and it felt out to me,” Joe said. “Seeing the images and the replays, it definitely is out.
“It’s a frustrating one to take on the basis of that, albeit we didn't perform to the capabilities that we've got, which is also frustrating.
“It probably was a 0-0 game, in fairness. I think both sides were guilty of making mistakes and giving the ball away too easily.
“If you come away with a draw and you move on to Saturday unbeaten after the last two games [then it’s great]. We’re really disappointed with ourselves and the decision.
“It would have been nicer to be smiling and it coming on the back of a good result for my 200th game. But it’s an amazing achievement for myself to play a club like this that many times. I've got a lot of people to thank for that. For myself, my family, it's a very proud day.
“I’ve been lucky to be a part of part of it. Getting back home and putting on a performance that we didn't do tonight and making sure we do on Saturday is really important.”
