From Flying Kiwis.
PAFC coach Steven Schumacher:
“It's over to him [Waine]. We won't just give him a run of games because he hasn't had one. He has got to earn it, and he understands that. The training sessions that he does through the week have to be top standard. He has got to be on it all the time. He has got to work hard and he has got to try to see his performances improve every game. That's what it's about. Hopefully he gets a run of games. If he stakes his claim then it's up to the other two when they are fit to try to get back in the team, and that's how any good squad should be.”
Words of high expectations from Ben Waine’s manager there. Nothing is supposed to come easy at this level but there is a small window for him right now after the two striker’s ahead of him in the Pilgrims squad both went off injured with muscle twinges in a 3-2 loss to Ipswich Town.
Ryan Hardie and Mustapha Bundu have each been diagnosed with grade two hamstring strains. Bundu might be back after the international break. Hardie seems like he may have longer to wait. One plus one equals two... with Ben Waine being the only fit striker in the squad right now he might finally get that extended chance he’s been waiting for since signing with Plymouth Argyle ten months ago.
That window of opportunity began with a 3-3 draw against Middlesbrough – only Waine’s third league start for the club. Exciting game that went back and forth with Argyle claiming a share of the points thanks to a 77th minute goal (having been 1-0 down then 2-1 up then 3-2 down). Boro had more of the chances but Argyle were clinical with what they had.
Didn’t get a whole heap of Waineo in there. He was subbed as part of a double change and tactical switch after 65 minutes, straight after Boro had retaken the lead with their third goal. He only made nine touches in that time with no shots however he was an active presence off the ball. His coach was encouraging. They’ve got one more game before the break so he should get at least that start before the others return.
More Schumacher: “I thought he did okay, especially first half. He didn't have loads of touches of the ball but he was occupying both Middlesbrough centre-backs and he was working hard off the ball. Anything he did have in and around (the penalty area) I thought he was neat and tidy enough with. When you play that lone striker role it can be tough, it's hard work, but I thought he did alright.”
