Tavistock AFC ready for Plymouth Argyle test in bumper Langsford Park clash

Tavistock AFC welcome League One neighbours Plymouth Argyle to Langsford Park this evening (Tuesday) as Steve Tully's side complete an unusual start to the new campaign with a glamour friendly against the Pilgrims.

While pre-season fixtures are normally consigned to July, this year's meeting comes after the Lambs have already begun their Western League Premier Division season, giving Tully's side valuable competitive minutes ahead of one of the biggest fixtures in the club's calendar.

Tavistock head into the game sitting 11th in the early Western League table after taking four points from their opening three matches.

A 2-0 opening-day victory over Buckland Athletic was followed by a hard-fought 2-2 draw with Saltash United before Saturday's narrow 2-1 defeat to unbeaten title contenders Clevedon Town.

Although the result against Clevedon ended the Lambs' unbeaten league start, the performance offered plenty of encouragement against one of the division's early pace-setters.

The visit of Argyle now presents another opportunity to measure themselves against higher-level opposition before attention returns fully to league and cup commitments.

Tully has already spoken positively about his first pre-season in charge, believing the varied schedule has prepared his squad for the demands of the Western League.

Following friendly victories over Bodmin Town and Exmouth Town, alongside competitive outings against Buckland, Saltash and Clevedon, the Lambs enter tonight's contest with match sharpness already on their side.

For Plymouth Argyle, the fixture represents the final step before competitive football begins next week in the Carabao Cup against Devon rivals Exeter City.

Tom Cleverley's side have enjoyed an unbeaten pre-season, winning four of their five matches, conceding just a single goal.

The Pilgrims opened with victories over Plymouth Parkway (4-1), Bath City (3-0), Torquay United (1-0) and Truro City (1-0), before being held to a goalless draw by Championship side Bristol City at Home Park on Saturday.

The last meeting between the clubs at Langsford Park, in July 2021, finished goalless as Tavistock frustrated Argyle in front of a bumper crowd.

Another large attendance is expected this evening, with supporters from across West Devon and Plymouth set to flock to Langsford Park.

For Tavistock, the result is secondary to another valuable night's experience against higher-level opponents.

For Argyle, it is the final opportunity to fine-tune preparations before competitive action begins.

Either way, the fixture offers another reminder of the strong footballing links across Devon and promises to be an entertaining occasion under the lights at Langsford Park.