Portsmouth boss Paul Cook expects close second leg at Plymouth Argyle
Saturday 14 May 2016 14:15, UK
Portsmouth boss Paul Cook is anticipating another tight game when his side travel to Home Park for the second leg of their Sky Bet League Two play-off semi-final against Plymouth Argyle, live on Sky Sports 1 HD from 5.50pm.
Cook was sent to the stands during a fiery 2-2 first-leg draw at Fratton Park on Thursday night following an argument with Argyle's assistant boss Paul Wotton, but is free to take his place in the dugout on Sunday.
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The Pompey boss felt Jamille Matt should have been sent off for what appeared to be a head-butt on midfielder Michael Doyle but the Pilgrims striker, who scored twice, has escaped retrospective action.
Cook regrets his actions, claiming both parties were "extremely out of order", but is now fully focused on reaching the Wembley final.
He told Portsmouth's official website: "The first leg was a competitive, full-blooded affair and we felt we were the better side for large periods of the game.
"It's not all a case of how good were Pompey because there were spells in the first half where we struggled to deal with Plymouth, but we eventually took control.
"So I was a little bit disappointed that their manager said he thought they were the better team. I think you should give a fair assessment and it was a bit bewildering.
"They are a good side and the tie is still very much alive, so we can all very much look forward to the match on Sunday. We're not going to go there and sit behind the ball - I can guarantee that we'll be involved in a decent game.
"I would suggest that it's very much 50-50. They'll fear and respect us and we'll fear and respect them. There's not much between the teams - it's very evenly balanced and the margins might be small once again."
On-loan Fleetwood forward Matt is available to play in the second leg after the Football Association decided not to act over the incident.
He cancelled out Marc McNulty's opener with a well-taken brace at Fratton Park, only for Gary Roberts' penalty to leave the tie finely poised.
Matt is relishing the return and believes the Green Army can help to get his side to the final.
"We were all looking forward to the game; we enjoyed the game; it was a great, great atmosphere," he told Argyle's official website.
"I can't put into words how much I enjoy playing in front of these fans. Since I have come here, they have made me feel so welcome, with the lads.
"Some of the scenes, some of the atmospheres, since I have been here have been second to none.
"They travel well and they come to support us at Home Park - we'll see them do it again one more time and I'm sure we'll get over the line."
