Exeter City FC

Exeter City manager Matt Taylor is relishing this weekend’s visit to Walsall as the Grecians look to return to winning ways after two successive draws.

The Grecians travel to the Bescot Stadium four points off top of the table, and with 10 league games to go, the City boss says that every point is vital in the run in of Sky Bet League Two.

“We need to go there with the right mentality,” said Matt. “We want to win every game, and we’ve only had one defeat in six. It’s incredible that there are 10 games left and 30 points to play for. So many more points to still play for, so it was important that we came out of that Crewe game within touching distance and we’re still level on points with third.

“We’re in a good place, in terms of the remaining games we want to win as many as we possibly can and pick up as many points as we can. We need to approach the game with the right mindset. We’ve finished the last two games so strongly that it shows where the group is at mentally.”

After two 1-1 draws, the City boss said that the mentality of the players is crucial going into this weekend’s away game. 

“Saturday will be a different game,” said Matt. “We need to go away and be resolute against a Walsall team with a lot of good players and front men in form. We need to get them on the back foot and utilise the ball really well. We are looking forward to it, the group is not in a bad place and we’ve looked after a few after the rigours of two games throughout the week. Mentality is key, everyone starting the game in the weekend has got to tell themselves they’re not physically low and that they’re at their absolute peak.”

In terms of a squad update, the Grecian boss said that other than tiring bodies there aren’t too many issues.

“Craig Woodman will probably get some action on Monday night for the under 23s fixture, and it’s great to see a reliable and dependable character coming back,” said Matt. “Jonny Maxted is outside catching simple balls, and Jack Sparkes is outside as well, not training with the group but running in straight lines which is a really bonus as that injury could’ve been more serious than initially expected.”

“We have to keep them fit, and whoever plays this weekend has really got to affect the outcome of the game. That’s what we’re paid to do, both the players and for the manager, and while it’s a pressured time we’re looking forward to it. Ten games is a lot of points and hopefully we can start ticking off the points. There is lots to play for and we’re right in the mix, and the group has got to believe in themselves as much as I believe in them.”