‘No need’ – Sam Cosgrove calls out AFC Wimbledon fans after EFL Trophy hat-trick for Plymouth

Plymouth Argyle striker Sam Cosgrove said there was “no need” for AFC Wimbledon fans to boo him during Wednesday night’s clash between the two sides in the EFL Trophy.

The Dons exited the competition after a second-half hat-trick in 15 minutes from the on-loan Birmingham City forward cancelled out Kyle Hudlin’s brace and Ayoub Assal’s smart finish.

The League One side booked their place in the quarter-finals against Bristol Rovers after Ayoub Assal and David Fisher both missed their penalties, allowing Bali Mumba to slot home the winning spot-kick.

Cosgrove spent the second half of last season on loan at Plough Lane, replacing Ollie Palmer and scoring just once in 15 appearances.

The 26-year-old has scored 10 goals in 20 appearances for Plymouth, who sit top of League One and are targeting promotion to the Championship.

Speaking with Plymouth live, Cosgrove said: “It makes it a bit sweeter, especially when I hear a couple of boos ringing out.

“There is no need for it, but we are the ones that are going through, they are the ones that are going home. Job done.

“To walk away with the match-ball is still sweet. You don’t come across many of them, especially with the season I had last year with the lack of goals. Questions were asked.

“I have hit double figures now since I have been at Plymouth so hopefully that can only increase. I’m over the moon with it.

“We weren’t expecting it to be as tough as it was but credit to Wimbledon, they have kept hold of quite a few of the players that they had last year and they have got a strong side.

“I’m sure they will do well in League Two, but we wore them down and after a strong start, they have crumbled and we have taken the front foot. I’m just delighted to get through to the next round and hopefully Wembley is not too far away.”

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD