Exeter grind out win over Newport

Posted Friday, December 27, 2019 by PA

Exeter kept pace with leaders Swindon at the top of League Two with a hard fought 1-0 win over mid-table Newport in a fractious clash at St James Park.

The only goal came on 14 minutes when Jake Taylor’s shot was blocked and Lee Martin was on hand to follow up and lash the ball into the bottom corner from 15 yards.

Ryan Bowman saw a shot deflect just wide and it took until 24 minutes for Newport to have a shot at goal, but Josh Sheehan’s effort flew wide of Jonny Maxted’s upright.

Taylor Maloney poked a shot straight at Maxted with another half-chance for Newport, while Nick Townsend had to be alert to tip Martin’s snap-shot over the bar.

Chances were few and far between on a miserable, blustery afternoon with the wet conditions turning the pitch into a quagmire.

Pierce Sweeney’s long-range shot was the only effort on target for Exeter in the second half, while George Nurse drew a good save from Maxted as County created the clearer chances.

The away side came close to an equaliser in stoppage time, but Jamille Matt headed over from close range under pressure from Taylor. Five players were then booked in stoppage time, starting with Sweeney for time-wasting.