Taylor frustrated by missed chances as Newport hold Exeter

Posted Sunday, August 19, 2018 by PA

Exeter manager Matt Taylor was left satisfied with a point but knew it should have been better after his side were held to a 1-1 draw by Newport.

It ended a winning start to life in management for Taylor, who saw Jayden Stockley open the scoring in the first half, before Mark Harris levelled things up in the final 10 minutes.

After winning their opening two league games of the season, it left Tayl or frustrated at not finishing the game off.

“I thought we had enough chances to win the game,” Taylor said. “One of them has hit the keeper in the face, he didn’t know too much about it, but full credit to them because they defended their goal when we put them under pressure.

“We felt that we dealt with their pressure pretty well to be honest, our keeper has not had too many saves to make.

“It is a mistake for their goal, or a combination of mistakes, which is always disappointing, but we weren’t bad today at all.

“I’m not going to berate my defenders, we all make mistakes.

“It’s another point on the board. We weren’t going to win every game and people were beginning to get carried away, so maybe it’s what was needed in terms of a reality check, but certainly not my players.

“My players know what a tough season lies ahead. Newport are a good team and it is a point gained.”

His opposite number, Michael Flynn, admitted his side were not at their best, but he was delighted to take something from the game.

“We weren’t at our best today,” he said. “It was a bit frustrating because we were the better team without being at our best. It is frustrating that we couldn’t get a few more goals.

“We weren’t sharp or bright enough in the final third. Crosses were over-hit, no anticipation to get across the front of the defender.

“Our midfield three, for whatever reason, were slightly off it intensity-wise and quality going forward, but I have got a good bunch of lads.

“Exeter are a strong outfit, you can see why they have been there or thereabouts in the last few years. The character and the resilience to keep going and score that goal was pleasing.

“Joe Day made an outstanding save, a reaction save. He could play higher, his kicking is very good and he is at another level.

“I don’t take any notice of the league table at the moment. We had a game plan to try and win a football match and it nearly paid off, the boys are playing some good stuff and it is a joy to be in charge of them.”