Argyle 1 – 0 Exeter (30/03/2013)
This game may not have had the goals and action of the first two matches, but in many ways, it is the most important game on the list. Argyle were still struggling and saw themselves near the Football League’s trapdoor with just a month to go of the 2012/13 season. Exeter came to town with an eye still on automatic promotion, with the chance to go fourth with victory in this one.
On paper, this looked like an away banker, but with it being a derby, and the sea of Green and White that greeted the teams when they entered the pitch, the scene was set for the inevitable upset. You won’t see many teams placed just outside the League 2 relegation zone managing over 13,000 fans for a league match but that’s exactly what you got here. The Green and White stripes across the Devonport and Lyndhurst stands (Pictured) really intimidated the Exeter players, whilst Argyle, and Jason Banton in particular, rose to the occasion.
There was tension in the air on both sides, as neither could afford a loss, and chances were at a premium early doors. Green hearts were soon in mouths when Jamie Cureton was left with a chance on goal but the veteran striker could not convert. At the other end of the age spectrum, the then 19 year old Jason Banton showed a touch of class to score the only goal of the game. The Crystal Palace loanee slipped the ball past one defender before fending off others and struck the ball in from 20 yards. The relief among the thousands of home fans was evident as the stadium erupted with celebrations; all they had to do now was hang on. At that time, that was usually something easier said than done with Argyle.
It was Cureton again who had the most guilt edged chance to level, but fluffed his lines from 6 yards out, meaning the home fans could breathe again. Argyle fans will have been looking at their watches for the last 20 minutes, just hoping for the final whistle to blow. When it did come, the scenes were ones of ecstasy, as John Sheridan had seen his team climb five points clear of the drop zone, after looking destined to go down earlier in the season.
To get a victory over Exeter is great at any time, but one that helps you retain your Football League status will be one that is cherished even more so.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TlKZUwVeolM