Through the archives | Plymouth Argyle

Ahead of our match against Plymouth Argyle on Boxing Day, we delve in the archives to bring you memorable moments against the Pilgrims.

RED CARDS GALORE

Three red cards were brandished in this 2001 clash, but City came out as 4-1 winners with a certain Welsh international stealing the headlines.

With the visitors down to ten men after just eight minutes, Robert Earnshaw poked the ball past Jon Sheffield in the Argyle goal to open the scoring, as the Bluebirds held a slender lead at half time.

Plymouth equalised through Ian Stonebridge after 50 minutes, with players from both sides seeing red soon afterwards. James Harper was given his marching orders one minute before Brian McGlinchey earned a second yellow.

It looked like the away side may take a point away from Ninian Park, before Leo Fortune-West and Earnshaw put pay to their hopes. Earnie’s second of the game ensured that we’d pick up all three points, with Scott McCulloch adding a fourth in stoppage time.

THOMPSON AT THE DOUBLE

Steve Thompson scored critical goals against the Pilgrims on more than one occasion, with a brace in 2006 the pick of the bunch.

Thompson's first came after a neat flick from Riccy Scimeca set him through on goal, with the striker smashing the ball into the bottom corner.

Kevin McNaughton was the creator of City's second, darting into the box before clipping the ball towards the back post for Thommo to head home.

The Scot was not the only man to find the back of the net twice, however; David Norris netted a brace to see the contest end 2-2.

BOTHROYD BRILLIANCE

Almost 15 years ago to the day, we faced off against Plymouth in another festive showdown. With the year ending, the Bluebirds were looking to establish a spot in the Play-Offs, but the match at Ninian Park against the Pilgrims was difficult and hard-fought, with chances at a premium.

With a draw looking like the likelier outcome, super striker Jay Bothroyd broke the deadlock after some good build-up play from Gavin Rae, as we headed into the New Year in fourth place.

VINTAGE CHOPRA

Our last win against Boxing Day’s opponents came right at the beginning of the 2009/10 season, with Michael Chopra in the midst of a hot streak in front of goal.

His first came after four minutes following some good work from Jay Bothroyd, his second was a delightful chip over the keeper, before he made it three for himself and the Bluebirds from the penalty spot.

Alan Gow added a consolation for the home side, but the day was all about City and Chopra in particular.