Extra Meaning To Devon Derby For Edwards.

For Joe Edwards, the Devon Derby holds bittersweet recollections.

His first was among our worst. Joe played for Ryan Lowe’s team in a 4-0 defeat at St James Park in late October 2019.

The season was cut short due to Covid-19, hence there was no return game that season. Argyle eventually were promoted that season, so everything worked out, but the specific result hung over the Greens for a long.

The sides met again in October 2022, on a wonderful Home Park evening (from a sports perspective, not the tempestuousness of the weather), with a televised audience watching the Greens win a classic by four goals to two.

Later that season, the football fayre was far more forgettable, but the outcome, with Matt Butcher scoring to give Argyle a 1-0 lead six games before the conclusion of a title-winning season, will live in the mind. As will the sight of captain Edwards bringing his teammates to the away end in celebration.

While Joe’s previous two games versus Exeter will be among his best memories, Thursday night has the potential to top them.

If Joe plays when Argyle face Exeter at St James’ Park this week, it will be his 250th game as a Pilgrim.

This is not something that happens on a frequent basis, especially in newer games. Edwards will become the 46th Greens player to attain this milestone, joining 1,218 others.

Perhaps more notably, he will become only the fifth player to reach 250 games this century, following Paul Wotton, Luke McCormick, Romain Larrieu, and Gary Sawyer.

As you can think, he is excited at the opportunity to discuss such a significant milestone on such a special occasion. It’s also not surprising that he understands the importance of a Devon Derby in the club’s hierarchy.

“I’ve discussed it with the boys this week,” Joe told Argyle Television. “Playing in these games allows you to become a hero.

There are players who haven’t played many games for Argyle but have a great reputation and are promoted because they scored and won in these games.

“It’s an opportunity to become a hero, and you want to be on the right side of it, so we must thoroughly prepare for it. We understand how crucial it is for the league standings and the club.

“I believe it’s an excellent game to enter at this stage. They are massive games for everyone, including us, the audience, and the city. We enjoy that.

“I personally look forward to it. They are the fixtures to look at when they are released in June. It’s another game for three points, which we both need, and that will be our primary emphasis.

“I’ve been on both sides of this. When you’re on the positive side, it’s one of the nicest feelings you can have. [You must] taste, enjoy, and contribute everything you have.

“I hated losing 4-0. One of my worst experiences here. It sticks with you. Having prior experience with this is beneficial. Losing games is never a good feeling, but the way we did it that day was especially unpleasant.

“Derby games are high-energy and enthusiastic, yet they can also be cagey. We’ll go into it with a concentrated mindset, understanding what it means and what everyone expects of us.

We must go there, give 100%, be our best selves, and hope for a great outcome. “Every game I’ve played, I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to represent this amazing club. Getting to 250 would be fantastic; getting to 250 in a Devon Derby is something special.

If I can play and come out on top, it will be one of my favourite experiences from this club. “I’ve always enjoyed playing for this club, and I intend to express that when I play. I will always give my all and do my best.

“My main concern going into these games – every game at the moment – is not only looking after the squad, but also having a responsibility to the city and the club.” It’s something I enjoy, and it’s very important. It makes me motivated to keep playing and aiding our team.

It’s an important part of my work to ensure that everyone understands why we’re doing what we’re doing and for whom.

“I am fortunate to have played 250 games for this team. I’m extremely proud. I am extremely proud to be the club’s captain and to have played so many games.

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