Exeter City Football Club were beaten 2‑1 by Torquay United in a pre‑season friendly at Plainmoor on July 28, 2026, as the young Gulls looked to sharpen their edge before the new League One season. The match, kicked off at 7.30 pm, saw Deon Moore convert a penalty in the 14th minute and later set up Isaac Westendorf for the second goal.
How did the game unfold?
Torquay United opened the scoring when Deon Moore calmly slotted home from the spot after Jordan Young was brought down inside the box. Ten minutes later Moore delivered a precise pass to Isaac Westendorf, who finished neatly to make it 2‑0. Exeter City fought back before the break when Kieran Wilson capitalised on a defensive mix‑up, poking the ball home in the 38th minute. Both sides created chances in the second half, but Exeter could not find an equaliser despite efforts from Wilson and Josh Gordon.
What does this mean for Exeter City Football Club?
The narrow defeat highlights the inexperience of Exeter’s youthful squad, yet the performance offers valuable minutes for emerging talent ahead of a challenging campaign. The club finished the 2025 season in 21st place in League One with 49 points, recording 12 wins, 13 draws and 21 losses from 46 games, and a recent form of L D D D W. With 52 goals scored and 61 conceded this season, the side sits 54 points behind leaders Lincoln, underscoring the need for defensive solidity and sharper attacking output.
Who stood out?
Torquay’s Deon Moore was the most decisive figure, scoring and assisting. For Exeter, Kieran Wilson’s goal‑mouth presence offered a glimpse of promise, while goalkeeper [anonymous] made several crucial saves, keeping the scoreline respectable. The match also saw several substitutes make an impact, with Matt Jay and Jamie Rickhuss providing fresh legs for Torquay.
What lies ahead?
Exeter City will next face Bristol City at St James Park, a test that will further gauge their readiness for the upcoming League One schedule. The friendly against Torquay United, despite the loss, gave manager Matt Taylor a clearer picture of his squad’s depth and areas needing reinforcement before the season proper begins.
