Exeter City’s Under-18s Lead Coach, Tom Donati, admitted his disappointment after his young side suffered their first defeat in Merit League Two on Saturday courtesy of a 3-2 loss to Northampton Town U18s.

“From my point of view, I thought we created enough chances, particularly in the first half, to be out of sight. It is quite tough being on the end of a defeat here.”

The Grecians were hit by a sucker-punch just after the half-hour mark when the Cobblers won themselves a penalty. Neo Dobson converted the resulting spot-kick to hand the visitors a shock lead.

Within two minutes, Exeter levelled. Liam Oakes sped to the byline before his low centre found Alfie Clark, who tucked the ball into the bottom corner.

Northampton then struck twice to lead 3-1 and, despite a Theo Cutler consolation, the Grecians are still seeking their first Merit League win, although the performance warranted better luck.