Pilgrims Podcast

Join host Mark Lovell as he sits down with iconic football commentator Jonathan Pearce to share captivating stories from his life and career. A proud Cornishman, Pearce begins by recounting the remarkable circumstances of his birth at Freedom Fields Hospital in Plymouth. He reflects on his early years in Bristol, where his love for football blossomed alongside his passion for Bristol City.

In an extraordinary tale from 1972, Pearce recalls how he and his father pioneered match analysis for Bristol City, making them the first club in Europe to film matches for tactical insights. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for a lifelong devotion to the Robins and provides a treasure trove of anecdotes for Bristol City fans.

The distinctive voice behind "Match of the Day" and 12 World Cup tournaments, Pearce shares his take on the exciting prospects for Plymouth Argyle under Wayne Rooney. He also discusses the potential for a documentary about Argyle and Rooney to captivate the American market, sharing his thoughts on the direction such a project should take.

Stories about legendary managers like Brian Clough and Bill Shankly add to the rich narrative, as Pearce’s vast experience in broadcasting comes to life. The conversation wraps up with a look ahead to Argyle’s upcoming visit to Ashton Gate.

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Join host Mark Lovell as he sits down with BBC Radio Devon commentator Michael McCann to unpack Argyle’s capitulation at Carrow Road. Michael, who was on commentary duty during the match, shares his insights on the heavy defeat, Rooney’s post-match remarks and demeanour, and his take on where Argyle can go from here.

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Join host Mark Lovell as he welcomes BBC Radio Devon commentator Michael McCann to chew over Argyle’s trip to Carrow Road. Michael has become a regular voice on Argyle away matches, but reveals he’s not proving a particularly lucky charm. Former Norwich players Adam Forshaw and Bali Mumba come under the spotlight, with an honourable mention to our former striker Ashley Barnes. We recall Ian Foster’s penultimate game in charge of Argyle on Bad Friday. And rest assured, our 6-2 win against the Canaries at Home Park is covered in all its glory as well!

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Here to dissect another surreal evening at Home Park where Plymouth Argyle and Watford shared the points from a Desmond.

A flat and often uninspiring performance punctuated by two world class moments of quality are the focus. Many questions that are hard to answer - did the new formation work and is there praise due for changing things up? Should we, or Rooney, now really be concerned about underlying data or just delighted with team spirit? Does a home crowd have a responsibly to lift the team or does the team have a responsibility to lift the home crowd?

Join Alex, Chris, Mark and Tom for a ramble through these considerations and a quick look forward to Norwich on Tuesday. Just don’t call it a free hit.

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Join host Mark Lovell as he welcomes sports writer Simon Burnton from the Guardian to discuss the forthcoming Friday evening feast against Watford. Special mentions for Andre Gray and Argyle’s bitter 1984 FA Cup semi-final defeat against Elton John’s club.

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Another international break, so we dive into Argyle’s recent struggles and how they balance against last season. We discuss our predicted finish, chances of survival, and revisit the “5 Things Argyle Must Do” to assess Rooney’s progress. We also analyse January transfer rumours, provide updates on players out on loan, and consider Joe Edwards’ coaching journey during his injury recovery. Plus, a look ahead to Watford and the big double-header at home. Don’t blink, or you’ll miss the quiz to round it off!

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Regulars Chris, Mark, and host Archie are joined by guests Michael Savage (The Guardian) and Seve to break down the latest draw, doubling our away points tally at Derby with help from the returning Randell. Dissecting the familiar defensive lapse, we also ask whether recent performances against promoted teams and relegation rivals are acceptable. The bluntness in attack, and how fringe players like Wright, Sorinola, and Pleggy are faring, are also considered. We then evaluate Rooney’s start as Argyle manager, his approach to attacking football, and his media presence. Are we seeing progress or cause for concern?

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Join host Mark Lovell as he welcomes Derby County Writer Leigh Curtis from the Derby Telegraph to dissect the massive six-pointer at Pride Park. Leigh provides all the latest info on our relegation rivals and the pair discuss Wayne Rooney’s time at Derby, both as a player and manager. Former Pilgrims and current Rams defenders Curtis Nelson and Sonny Bradley are given honourable mentions, also touching on the famous double over the Rams during Argyle’s magnificent League One title winning campaign.

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Join host Mark Lovell as he welcomes football commentator supreme Ian Darke to pick apart the Dockyard Derby as Argyle edged past Pompey at Home Park. Considered among the best football commentators of his generation, Ian a lifelong Pompey fan, provides his thoughts on Argyle’s vital win against our relegation rivals. Wayne Rooney, Michael Obafemi, Paul Mariner and Norman Piper all come under the microscope, as well as an iconic moment in USA soccer history.

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