A “poor decision” stopped Leyton Orient’s charge against Plymouth before it had ever got underway, in the mind of caretaker boss Andy Edwards.

The O’s were looking to bounce back from three games without a win after the dismissal of Andy Hessenthaler on Monday, but were reduced to 10 men against the league leaders inside a minute when Robbie Weir was sent off.

A spirited performance, including a red card for debutant Jens Janse followed, but the two-man deficit proved too much for Edwards’ men.

The opening was a frustration for Edwards, in his first game in charge, and one he felt was unjustified by the Surrey official.

He said: “You’re hoping to have a real crack at it, but after 30 seconds you get that taken away from you.

“It was a poor decision from the referee and the reaction from the Plymouth bench was poor too, it was a yellow at most and I don’t think the referee had a clear view at it. I can’t for the life of me see how he’s given it.

“I think the second was a red card. Jens was the last player, and the lad got there before him. It was an uphill battle with 10 men, but with nine it’s very disappointing to say the least.

“It’s strange to lose a game 2-0 and have such a fantastic reaction, but the crowd were first-class. I understand their frustrations.”

Edwards is the odds-on favourite to take over permanently at the Matchroom Stadium, but would not commit his name to the ring of interested potential managers.

“It’s not something I have considered,” he said. “For me the only thought process was tonight’s game, and hopefully getting a win.”