Gary Caldwell thrilled with Kamari Doyle’s Exeter impact

Posted Sunday, September 01, 2024 by PA

Kamari Doyle marked his full EFL debut with a stunning left-footed free-kick to set Exeter on their way to a 2-0 win at Bolton in League One.

And manager Gary Caldwell reckons the 19-year-old former Southampton academy player, dubbed ‘the Ward-Prowse apprentice’ by Exeter’s social media team, is even stronger with his right foot.

The Brighton loanee’s corner then led to Millenic Alli doubling City’s lead four minutes into the second half.

“He can do it with both feet,” said Caldwell. “But it was his weaker foot – I think.

“His delivery was poor in the early period. But there was only one man to take that free-kick.

“He showed moments of real quality, and we are delighted to have him for the season. He is going to be a huge asset.”

The Grecians suffered a 7-0 hammering in last season’s corresponding game.

“To win any game at this level is difficult, especially to come to this stadium after last year which was a low moment for the team and the club,” added Caldwell.

“This group of players, though, look different. This group has quality but what won us the game was our mentality and our bravery at times in possession.

“I questioned the players last week and said we needed to be a tougher team to play against. And every single player was outstanding.”

Bolton have lost back-to-back league games and have not won at home this season as they suffer a hangover from last season’s League One play-off final defeat to Oxford.

Ian Evatt’s side were booed off at half-time and full-time and the Trotters boss admitted: “It was below our standard.

“We looked tired and fatigued, though I don’t think 2-0 was fair reflection of the game.

“It is a tough period, but it is not unexpected. I did feel we might suffer early because we haven’t got players 100 per cent fit, ready and up to speed.

“So, things are challenging. We need to stick together and work hard post the international break to reset and go again.

“In a season you always have difficult and tough periods, and we are in one right now. We don’t seem to get any rhythm.

“We seemed to take a step forward (a League Cup win at Shrewsbury) but this was another step back. We have to understand why and try to find a solution.

“We had 19 shots, three on target and that’s not good enough. We had some chances at good times to score but we didn’t take them and with the players we have got, we need to be better.”