First-half goals end unbeaten sequence

EXETER 2 ATHLETIC 0
ATHLETIC saw their four-match unbeaten run crash to an end at St James Park.

Scott Golbourne, a former loan man at Boundary Park, opened the scoring for Exeter in the first half with a near-post shot that hit an upright on its way in.

The Grecians – whose slim npower League One play-off hopes were still alive at this point – went further in front thanks to Jamie Cureton, who struck home a loose ball after John O’Flynn’s initial effort fell kindly for him.

City goalkeeper Ben Hamer was called into action twice in the second half to deny Oumare Tounkara and Aidan White, but Exeter held on to gain three points.

“It was chalk and cheese between the first half and second half,” Athletic manager Paul Dickov said.

"In the second half we a had a right good go, played some really good football and their goalkeeper has made some excellent saves.

"Two mistakes have cost us today and against a good team like Exeter you're up against it straight away.”