In a much improved performance, a young Exeter City side gave a really spirited account of themselves, but came away from the league leaders empty handed with fortune NOT favouring the brave.

City thought they had deservedly took the lead after 14 minutes, when sixteen year debutant striker STAN PAXTON finished off a good move only to have been ruled surprisingly off side. The Referee apologised at half time to the Exeter boys and staff stating that he had made a mistake and that the goal should of counted, very refreshing and honest, but nevertheless it didn't count and Filton took the lead after 27 minutes against the run of play after an individual defensive mistake. Prior to that the visitors created a number of chances - notably in the 17th, 24th and 25th minute when the Filton goal had a charmed life.

City still continued to press after the break, but the home side took advantage of two further individual mistakes to wrap the game up with a very flattering score line in the 50th and 75th minutes.

Mike Radford commented: 'I am very disappointed with the result but not the performance. The lads responded really well to what was required of them but are not getting the rub of the green at the moment. It was a very good all round team performance with fifteen year old JACK FURZER making his debut at centre half worth a special mention'.

TEAM: Wannell, Kingdom, O'Loughlin, Nodwell, Furzer, Dirrane, Robinson, Humphreys, Paxton, Skinner, Bicknell. SUBS: Nott (for Furzer 60mins), Craze (for O'Loughlin 60mins)