A surprise win for Plymouth at Withdean tonight could help Kevin Summerfield land the manager's job.

The ex-Shrewsbury assistant, an FA Cup semi finalist with Argyle in 1984, has been in charge for four matches since the sacking of Kevin Hodges.

A narrow defeat at table-topping Chesterfield was followed by consecutive clean sheet home victories against Blackpool and Scunthorpe and Saturday's 1-1 draw at Hartlepool.

Substitute Kevin Nancekivell, Hodges' last signing, earned Plymouth only their third away point.

The £5,000 buy from two-time FA Vase winners Tiverton Town levelled midway through the second half and leading marksman Paul McGregor headed against the bar minutes later.

That would have given Argyle their first win on the road since thrashing West Country neighbours Torquay 4-0 back in March.

Summerfield, upgraded to caretaker from his role as director of youth, said: "I want the chance to be manager and the players are doing their best for me.

"The point we got at Hartlepool might help, but it should have been three. We had the chances."

Several rival candidates have already been interviewed for the Home Park post, including Paul Sturrock, Joe Jordan and Ian Atkins. Hodges paid the price for five defeats in seven games. Summerfield has stamped his mark by changing the system, employing Chris Leadbitter to shield the back four.

The width is provided by leading marksman Paul McGregor and Martin Phillips, a £25,000 summer buy from Portsmouth.

Youngster Steve Adams is deputising for injured captain Mick Heathcote at the heart of the defence. The 20-year-old made only his third League apearance at Hartlepool.

Former Albion midfielder Jason Peake has been out of favour since Summerfield took over, along with fellow close season capture Terry Fleming from Lincoln.

Both travelled to the north-east on Saturday, but they did not even figure on the bench.