Plymouth Argyle left frustrated as Stevenage claim comfortable victory

Plymouth Argyle suffered a disappointing defeat on the road as Stevenage secured a convincing 3-0 victory, with goals from Michael Mellon, Josh Magennis and substitute Phoenix Patterson condemning the Pilgrims to a long journey home empty-handed.

Argyle struggled to find their rhythm during the opening stages and found themselves two goals behind at the interval after Stevenage made the most of their opportunities.

Mellon, making his first league start for Boro following seven appearances from the substitutes’ bench, opened the scoring in the 19th minute. Linking up well with Magennis, the forward created space on the edge of the penalty area before firing a low effort beyond the Argyle defence to give the hosts the advantage.

Stevenage doubled their lead just eight minutes later following a dangerous run down the left by Ben Broggio. His cross-shot was only parried a short distance by former Boro loanee Murphy Cooper, allowing Magennis to react quickest and drill the loose ball home from seven yards.

The Pilgrims struggled to make a significant impact during the first half, although Ronan Curtis came close on two occasions with headed efforts that offered some encouragement for the visitors.

Argyle emerged with greater purpose after the restart, with the introduction of half-time substitute Xavier Amaechi helping to inject additional energy into their attacking play.

However, despite the improved start to the second period, the Pilgrims were unable to find a way back into the contest as Stevenage continued to defend their advantage.

A head injury to Louis Thompson then prompted Boro to make a double substitution, and one of their replacements ultimately proved decisive in putting the result beyond doubt.

Dan Kemp produced an excellent dribble through the middle of the pitch, opening up the Argyle defence before slipping a pass into the path of fellow substitute Patterson. The forward kept his composure to finish and make it 3-0 with seven minutes remaining.

The late goal extinguished any remaining hopes of an Argyle recovery and completed a comfortable evening for the home side.