I must say that the way Exeter started , I thought we were in for a stuffing. I thought we rallied well after ht and probably should have won it but a good competitive game and a draw was just about what I’d have settled for before the start.larrywilkie wrote:Hi again,
Exeter fan here in peace once more.
I was interested to read your views, and always try to read both sides to get a balanced view of the match.
I spoke to a few County fans before the match and said I thought 1-1. I think we would both have taken it before the match?
Agree with most comments on here that we probably shaded the first half, but we just didn't or couldn't get started (to your credit) in the second half.
I don't think there are many comments on our site saying that County are thugs (maybe one or two, but you will get that with all clubs), most are just making the point that you are a strong and physical (not in a bad way) side, and in previous years we have been known to be intimidated by that, but not this year.
I also note various comments about Exeter players throwing themselves to the floor, and agree there was a bit of that going on, but I would say that both sides were guilty of it at times. It would be interesting to see extended highlights to check some of the tackles out from both sides. We sometimes do an extended highlight package on our site so will keep a look out for that.
Of the two main talking points, the penalty just looked like an all round mess from our point of view, and from where I was sat in the Bisley, I wasn't surprised when he gave it. Some from behind the goal say that he saw a trailing leg and made sure he fell over it (I guess they would say that though!!). TV pictures not really conclusive either way, but our player certainly gave the referee an opportunity to award it. Our gaffer wasn't arguing about that decision either, so that's good enough for me!!
I also didn't have a good view of the stamping incident as the play had moved on. Was anyone in a really good position to see it happen? I know there was an angry reaction from the fans on that side, so assume it was as stated.
All in all, a decent game, two good sides, cracking weather, good crowd, very good atmosphere as always, and as I live in South Wales, I am glad not to have to face a load of stick from work colleagues today about getting beaten.
Hope you don't mind me posting on here and see you on Boxing Day.
I thought the referee was strong at rejecting the dubious claims for free-kicks from a small group of players intent on play-acting and I was sad to see it as a feature of what was a decent game. You’ll probably think I’m being partisan but I have to say the thespianism was almost totally restricted to your guys As an ex-ref, I was disappointed that all four officials missed the stamp which seemed pretty obvious ( from what I must admit was 50 yards away for me )
Anyway , an enjoyable game , perfect weather and all in all a fairly decent referee which is as rare as hens teeth in this league hope you enjoyed the day.