The Grecians showed tremendous character and spirit to grind out a result. The scoreline flattered the home side and the Reds were disappointed not to score more goals from the chances that they created. Robinson scored the first goal after 16 minutes. Barker and Allanson combined to release the wide man who powered inside and coolly finished. Within minutes Basingstoke had levelled. Sloppy defending was punished and the game was back on level terms.

Despite starting to dominate play and with Barker becoming more and more influential in the middle of midfield, Exeter went behind. Again Basingstoke punished basic defensive mistakes and highlighted areas of weakness. Fortunately the drive and determination in midfield and up front pulled the Grecains back into the game. Robinson was released in behind the full back and got dragged to down to earn a penalty. Alllanson steeped up and took responsibility and coolly slotted home from the spot. Despite going close with a Bartlett shot, O'Donnell header and Allanson flick on the score remained level at half time.

Exeter totally dominated the second half but were lucky to score from a Bartlett rebound. With confidence and maturity the Reds played the game in the Basingstoke half and managed to create crossing opportunities for Selley and Frear when he came on. A number of balls flashed across the 6 yard box but were not capitalised on. Again Allanson looked most likely to score but delivery was not quick enough or accurate enough to pick out his intelligent darting runs. Three or four times the ball broke free around the edge of the box and the Exeter midfield tried to score form distance. Barker, Bartlett and Liddle tested the keepr but did not strike the ball with enough venom or belief. A much more solid defensive display kept Basingstoke out and allowed Exeter to attack with confidence and freedom. With 15 minutes to go Exeter were rewarded for their hard work and effort. Liddle released Bartlett who chased down a lost cause and blocked the ball into the net. This goal should keep the Reds in the play off mix.

TEAM: James Wannell, Humphreys, O'Donnell, Liddle, Dirrane, Metters, Barker, Robinson, Bartlett, Allanson, Selley. SUBS: Frear, (for Robinson 60 mins), Cox (for Selley 75 mins)