Exeter City goalkeeper Harry Lee may rejoin Plymouth Parkway on an emergency loan for their FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash against Worthing, as reported by Devon Live.
The 19-year-old shot-stopper, who had a successful loan spell with the club last season, is being considered as a replacement for Ewan Griffiths, who is away on international duty with Wales U19s. Parkway boss Lee McPhee hopes to secure Lee’s services for what he describes as “arguably the biggest game in the club’s history.”
Lee’s Potential Return to Plymouth Parkway
Harry Lee’s time at Plymouth Parkway last season left a lasting impression on both the club and its supporters. The young Exeter City goalkeeper, known for his composure and confidence, helped Parkway through key matches in the 2022/23 campaign. With their current goalkeeper, Ewan Griffiths, on international duty, Parkway are keen to bring Lee back on an emergency loan for their upcoming FA Cup clash.
Parkway boss Lee McPhee expressed his optimism about securing the deal: “We are hoping to get a loan deal done for Harry as Ewan is away on international duty. He has played for Exeter’s U21s this season and done very well, but I think he really suits the way we play because we want to play out from the back.”
Key Match Against Worthing
The upcoming match against National League South side Worthing marks a historic moment for Plymouth Parkway. This is the first time they have reached the fourth qualifying round of the FA Cup, and a win would see them through to the first round proper, where League One and League Two clubs enter the competition. For a club like Parkway, this represents a huge opportunity, both financially and in terms of exposure.
McPhee spoke about the importance of the game, saying, “This is arguably the biggest game in the club’s history. We have a relatively young squad, but we have some real talent and prospects. We are confident that with the right preparation, we can make the most of this opportunity.”
#PackThePark pic.twitter.com/jQotaPyKAe
— Plymouth Parkway FC (@PlymouthPFC) October 9, 2024
Parkway’s FA Cup Journey
Parkway’s performance in the FA Cup has been one of the highlights of their season. Despite struggling in the league, where they have gone nine games without a win, the magic of the FA Cup has inspired them to perform at a higher level. McPhee praised the experienced players in his squad for helping the younger ones navigate through tough matches and maintain focus ahead of the crucial Worthing tie.
He said, “We have got some great experienced players within the group who are naturally supportive of the younger ones. They’re really important to helping them understand the game, and their contributions have been fantastic. Everyone is working hard to make sure we’re prepared for the game against Worthing.”
Tactical Focus for the Big Game
McPhee is well aware of the challenge that Worthing, currently tenth in the National League South, will pose. However, he remains confident that Parkway’s style of play will cause problems for their opponents, especially with a home crowd behind them at Bolitho Park.
“We know that Worthing like to play out from the back, just like we do, so it’s going to be a tactical battle. They tend to play a 4-4-2, which you don’t see as much these days, but we have our game plan ready. The most important thing is that we compete both physically and mentally.”
Writer’s View
Harry Lee’s potential return to Plymouth Parkway is a timely boost for the club ahead of such a significant FA Cup clash. His familiarity with the club, combined with his experience and ability to play out from the back, aligns perfectly with McPhee’s tactical approach. Lee’s inclusion would provide an extra layer of confidence to a squad that’s already riding high on their FA Cup success this season.
For Parkway, the upcoming game against Worthing represents a major milestone. Their journey through the FA Cup has captured the imagination of their supporters, and with the right mix of tactical preparation and team unity, they have a real chance to make further history. If Lee does return, it could be the final piece in the puzzle as they push to reach the first round proper.
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