After losing their first league encounter with Torquay United in nearly 40 years and knocked out of the FA Cup by non-league Stourbridge, Plymouth Argyle gave their fans something to shout about by recording a comprehensive victory over Northampton Town.
A Simon Walton penalty set the Pilgrims on their way before Nick Chadwick, who was marking his return to Home Park after joining on loan from Stockport County, added a second. Hull City loanee Will Atkinson then scored his fourth of the season before Ashley Hemmings marked his debut, after joining on loan from Wolves, with a goal. Former Torquay United striker Adebayo Akinfenwa added a late consolation for the Cobblers.
Other new faces on show for Argyle included experienced centre back Darren Purse who brought more stability to the Pilgrims backline after joining on loan from Championship side Millwall. He was partnered in the centre of defence by Frenchman Maxim Blanchard who was making his debut after joining the Pilgrims on a free transfer.
Chadwick's ninth minute strike is his 12th goal in his two spells with the Pilgrims, after scoring 11 times in 83 appearances, during his previous spell at Home Park between 2005 and 2008. He also provided the assist for Hemmings' debut effort on 44 minutes.
One strength that both Purse and Chadwick brought to the Pilgrims' side is that they both arrived at Home Park match fit. Purse had recently completed a five match loan spell at Yeovil Town and Chadwick has been playing regularly in the Blue Square Premier for Stockport County this season.
As well as the new boys giving a good account of themselves, two of the more established members of Carl Fletcher's squad, Simon Walton and Will Atkinson, received recognition for their performances by being named in the League Two Team of the Week.
Following their break from action due to their early exit from the FA Cup, Argyle face matches against their fellow strugglers Bradford City and Hereford United in quick succession.
If they can take their performance against the Cobblers into those two games, they will give their chances of staying up a major boost.
