Grecians create plenty of chances but fall short

Report: Exeter City 0 Newport 2

Exeter City’s perfect home record in Sky Bet League 2 was ended at the hands of Newport County AFC, as the Exiles triumphed 2-0 at St James Park.

Conor Washington drilled in an opener midway through the first period, and despite chances being created by both sides in the meantime, it wasn’t until the 72nd minute that the Exiles sealed the win through a Harry Worley strike.

Sam Parkin was the notable omission for the Grecians, with a hamstring niggle keeping him sidelined. John O'Flynn, last weekend's match-winner, was named as the replacement.

David Wheeler also returned to the starting XI after beginning on the bench against Northampton Town.

Billy Jones and Lenny Pidgeley, both former Grecians, are named amongst the starters for the visitors, while Chris Zebroski, known well in the South West including for a spell with Torquay United, lead the line with Washington beginning alongside him.

On a muggy, sticky afternoon, the fixture started at a frantic pace with chances being created at both end within the first five minutes. After scoring in the last minute at Northampton, O’Flynn chanced his arm at scoring in the first against Newport – he chested down a clearance and hit a looping volley, which flew just wide of Pidgeley’s goal.

From the resultant goal-kick, the Exiles broke well and Washington jinked a turned, and a lot shot deflected off the outstretched leg of Danny Coles and behind for a corner.

Back at the other end, Alan Gow had two strikes at goal in quick succession from a similar position after cutting in off the right. Both were down the throat of Pidgeley – though the stopper grabbed the latter effort at the second attempt with O’Flynn bearing down.

The Grecians were looking much the more dynamic, and some smart link-up play between the strikers and midfielders were opening gaps at will at times – though the all-important goal was looking elusive.