Lowry previews Gillingham test

Argyle Under-18s lost their opening game of the season last weekend, but Head Coach Jamie Lowry is hopeful the reflection and review from the defeat to Milton Keynes Dons will put his side in good stead ahead of this week’s match against Gillingham. 

A tough encounter away to the Dons resulted in a 3-1 loss, but there were positive spells in the opening 45 minutes. 

“It was a disappointing result last weekend against Milton Keynes,” Lowry said. “We started well. We were in control and had good chances that would’ve changed the swing of the game.   

“It was pleasing, in terms of it being the start of the season, so the squad can adjust quickly and adapt so we know how to progress moving forward. 

“Gillingham will be different, [they have] a different style of play. They're very forward-thinking in terms of wanting to run and play forwards. They're probably a bit more aggressive in the press than Milton Keynes were, so a bit of a different style for us to adapt to.  

“In terms of us, nothing changes. We’ll still try and play the Argyle way. We want to dictate the ball, be in control, and play attacking football. It's just a slight adaptation to how we deal with the style of play, between different teams we play and to use our strengths but also to counteract their strengths against us.” 

With the first game of the season being a tough away fixture in Milton Keynes, the game on Friday, 16 August has added value and hope for the Greens with it being at home, at Millenium Fields (2pm). Lowry admits his love for home ties and how it helps the squad prepare for matches. 

“I prefer playing at home to travelling to Gillingham this weekend,” Lowry said. “We're pleased to be back on home soil and the boys don't have to get up at 5am or 6am.  

“It’ll be nice. The surface will be good as well, which will help us. I think there'll be a few [fans] there, with it being a Friday, so we’re looking forward to playing back at home.”