Sorry Plymouth, but you've got to go

By Ian Winwood

Published 10:01 19/03/10

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I don’t suppose by saying this that I’m going to make too many friends in the south west of England, but Plymouth Argyle’s midweek win against the often hapless Bristol City caused me to inwardly groan.

Why? Because if you pointed a gun at my head – or even placed a pint in my hand – I’d admit that Plymouth are the side that I would most like to see relegated from the Championship.

Please understand me – Plymouth fans, I really have nothing against your club. In theory I love it when sides from footballing cold-beds rise up the ranks. I know I sound patronising even saying that, but what can you do?

I also viewed the club’s habit of naming former Labour Party leader Michael Foot (may he rest in peace) as one of the team’s substitutes whenever they played at home to be a quirky and touchingly respectful gesture, and one of which I thoroughly approved.

But let’s be serious – how much of a bark is it to get to Plymouth? Seriously, it’s about as easy to go and see my team play on the moon as it is travelling to Home Park.

Before you say it, I know it’s a beautiful part of the world. But then Sydney Harbour is a beautiful part of the world, and I wouldn’t go there on a Saturday afternoon to see a match, now would I?

This is how it works. I live in London. I want to see Charlton Athletic and Millwall promoted from League 1, and I want to see Plymouth Argyle and (yes, I’m sorry) Scunthorpe United to sink from the Championship. And, of course, I want Crystal Palace to stay up.

I’m sorry if this offends you, and please believe me when I say that it’s nothing personal. But, seriously, have you seen the cost of rail tickets these days?

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