Plymouth Argyle is gearing up for an exciting return to Home Park on Boxing Day for the first time in nine years as they prepare to face Reading in their League One fixture this Friday at 3 p.m. This marks a significant occasion, especially for longtime captain Joe Edwards, who has never experienced a Boxing Day match at Home Park, having joined the club in 2019.
The last time Plymouth hosted a Boxing Day game was in 2016, when they played a thrilling 3-3 draw against Wycombe Wanderers. That match attracted a crowd of 12,210 and showcased dramatic swings in momentum, with Argyle initially leading 3-1 before a late equalizer from Wycombe. Since then, the Pilgrims have played away on Boxing Day for the last eight years but have maintained a solid record in those fixtures, securing four wins, two draws, and only two losses.
Edwards reflected on those past away games, particularly against Cheltenham, where Argyle enjoyed three victories without conceding a goal. He expressed the camaraderie built during their shared stays and the anticipation of a home crowd for this special occasion, noting, “It will be a different experience… it has been many years since I have been at home on Christmas.”
Looking forward, Argyle has a busy festive period ahead, with another home match against Wycombe scheduled for December 29, followed by an away game at Stevenage on New Year’s Day. They will wrap up this demanding stretch with a home fixture against Burton Albion on January 4.
Head coach Tom Cleverley emphasized the importance of this Boxing Day clash for both the team and fans. He noted that the day before a match, including Christmas Day, typically involves training for the players, and he aims to deliver a strong performance to reward the supporters. “After your local derby, the Boxing Day fixture is the first game you look for on the calendar,” Cleverley stated, reinforcing the significance of the day.
As the Pilgrims prepare to celebrate this festive fixture, there is a palpable excitement in the air. The return of Boxing Day football at Home Park not only provides a great opportunity for the club to showcase its progress but also promises to bring fans together in the spirit of the season.