Exeter City beat Accrington Stanley 2-0 at St James Park on Saturday. Jack Fitzwater and Gwion Edwards scored within the first 13 minutes.
Early goals
Exeter opened the scoring after just 90 seconds when a long throw from Luca Woodhouse was headed into the area. Fitzwater hooked the ball over the head of goalkeeper Louie Moulden to slot the ball into the top corner. The visitors were unsettled early on, but Shaun Whalley soon tested Bycroft with a strike that the goalkeeper gathered comfortably.
Second minute
Exeter doubled their advantage in the 13th minute. Reece Cole’s effort was parried by Moulden, but the loose ball struck Seamus Conneely before bouncing into the net from Edwards’ shot. The away side then enjoyed plenty of the ball without seriously testing Bycroft.
Dominant possession
Exeter continued to carry the greater threat, with Ed James heading over and Josh Gordon shooting wide after a quick break. Moulden also kept out a Cole free-kick before the interval. Boss John Doolan kept the same starting XI and substitutes that began the two-two draw with Colchester on the opening day, leaving two-goal Charlie Caton alongside Josh Woods in attack.
Accrington’s attempts
Stanley improved after half-time. Donald Love saw an effort blocked, while Woods had a shot deflected over before Cole Stockton came on shortly after the hour. Stockton then headed straight at Bycroft as Stanley sought to turn possession into a goal. Woods went close again in the 75th minute, but his fierce attempt was blocked amid sustained pressure around the Exeter penalty area.
Final moments
The Grecians still threatened on the counter, and Jayden Wareham was denied twice by Moulden before sending another effort wide. Taylor Perry headed over late on as Exeter saw out the victory. Stanley’s afternoon ended with another concern when Stockton was substituted in added time after appearing to pick up an injury. The result left the visitors empty-handed after a difficult afternoon.
