Exeter City Football Club manager Matt Taylor is feeling confident about his team's direction after a solid run of League Two results. The Grecians are currently 16th in the table with 5 points from their opening five games, following a recent 0-0 draw away at Walsall.
Taylor said that the performance against the fifth-placed Saddlers was particularly encouraging. "We feel that was a winning performance," the manager said. This result came on the back of a 1-1 draw at home against high-flying Barnet earlier in the week, meaning Exeter have now taken five points from their last three league outings.
The recent upturn is important for a squad undergoing significant transition. Financial constraints stemming from an overspend during the 2024-25 campaign forced the club to part with many experienced players following relegation from League One last season. The primary aim for this campaign is stabilisation in the fourth tier. With four goals scored and four conceded so far, the team has a neutral goal difference, indicating a balanced if unspectacular start. Fans can track the club's progress in the standings as the season develops.
Rebuilding a competitive squad on a tighter budget is the central challenge. The departure of seasoned professionals has created opportunities for younger players, but it also places a greater burden on the manager's tactical planning and man-management. The club sits seven points behind early leaders Bristol Rovers. Consistency will be key, and the team's recent form of draw, draw, loss, win, loss (DDLWL) shows they are capable of picking up points but need to turn draws into wins more regularly.
Attention now turns to the next fixture, which presents another opportunity to climb the table. Exeter City travel to face Port Vale, who are currently 24th, on September 12th. This match is a clear target for securing three points. The full schedule of upcoming games is available on the club's fixtures page. Success in these types of encounters will be vital if Taylor's side are to push towards the top half of League Two this season.
The manager's optimism is rooted in the defensive resilience shown against strong opponents like Walsall and Barnet. Building from a solid base is a classic approach for teams in a transitional phase. Supporters will hope this foundation allows for more attacking fluency as the campaign progresses. The next test at Vale Park will be a practical measure of whether this confidence is well-placed. The club faces Port Vale away on Saturday, September 12th.
