Caleb Watts fires Exeter to victory over Rotherham

Posted Sunday, August 11, 2024 by PA

Substitute Caleb Watts scored the only goal as Exeter started their League One season with an excellent 1-0 win over big-spending Rotherham.

It was no more than the Grecians deserved as they dominated for large spells, although the Millers will regret not taking the clear-cut chances they created in an entertaining match in Devon.

Debutant Josh Magennis saw a shot turned against the crossbar inside the first minute by visiting goalkeeper Dillon Phillips while Jack Aitchison and Vince Harper also missed good chances.

Jonson Clarke-Harris headed wide from barely five yards out on the stroke of half-time with Rotherham’s first attempt.

After the break, Reece Cole was twice denied by Phillips before Rotherham’s Hakeem Odoffin struck the outside of the post and missed another great chance, heading over from six yards.

It proved costly as Watts, who had only been on the pitch for three minutes, turned in an exquisite cross from Johnly Yfeko from close range to give Exeter a deserved lead.

Rotherham rarely looked like getting an equaliser as the Grecians dealt with them comfortably to get their season off to the perfect start.