Argyle strike back to sink Orient and keep play-off dream alive

Plymouth Argyle boosted their hopes of securing a League One play-off place with an impressive 3–1 victory over Leyton Orient at the BetWright Stadium.

Despite being second best for much of the opening period, the Pilgrims took a surprise lead shortly before half-time when Bim Pepple pounced from close range, guiding a left-footed effort into the bottom corner.

The hosts hit back almost immediately, restoring parity in spectacular fashion just a minute later. James Morris delivered an inviting cross from the left, which Ollie O’Neill met with a fine finish to leave Argyle's goalkeeper stranded.

Plymouth emerged from the interval with renewed purpose and regained the advantage seven minutes into the second half. Ronan Curtis showed great composure to fire high into the net and put the visitors back in front.

The Pilgrims wrapped up the points in the 70th minute when Mathias Ross rose highest to meet Curtis’s cross, powering a header beyond the reach of the Orient keeper to make it 3–1.

Argyle had opportunities to extend their lead further as they pressed for a fourth, but missed chances did not prove costly as they held firm in the closing stages to secure three crucial points in their push towards the play-offs.

Devon rivals Exeter City grabbed a late equaliser to draw 1-1 with Wycombe in the first game under interim manager Dan Green.