Schumacher's Grimsby Reaction
Argyle's 2022/23 Emirates FA Cup campaign ended at the first hurdle with a 5-1 defeat at Grimsby Town.
Sky Bet League One leaders Argyle led early via an Adam Randell goal, but League Two Grimsby soon equalised, and by half-time had raced into a 4-1 lead, to which they added another goal in the second half.
Manager Steven Schumacher was understandably unhappy with the result and performance.
“It was terrible,” he said. “From the first whistle, we started the game ok, got ourselves into a good lead, played in their half for a few minutes then from about five minutes onwards, they were the better team.
“They played with more energy than us, more quality than us. They created loads more chances and were deservedly the better team. From how well we’ve been playing, the standards that we’ve set, we were nowhere near it today. It’s a bit of a shock, and not acceptable.”
To compound matters, Conor Grant and Dan Scarr both limped off with injuries in the first half. Jordan Houghton missed the trip entirely, because of a personal matter.
“Both said they felt their thigh,” said Schumacher, of Grant and Scarr.
“Jordan had a family issue on Thursday evening, so he wasn’t available. We were a bit stretched. We missed Jordan today because he would have been someone who could pass the ball to a grey shirt.”
Under-18s players Will Jenkins Davies and Caleb Roberts featured during the game; Jenkins Davies starting the match and playing 45 minutes, Roberts coming on as a second-half substitute.
“I don’t think the seniors have helped them out today,” said Schumacher. “The performance was so far off it. Will Jenkins Davies had a tough 45 minutes, not down to his own fault. Everyone to a man wasn’t at it today, apart from Niall Ennis who came on and did well. In the second half he came on and had a go.
“I’m pleased Caleb Roberts gets on the pitch, but not in the right circumstances. He should be coming on the pitch when his team are performing, or at least competing.
“We didn’t compete the whole afternoon and got what we deserved: absolutely nothing.”
