Exeter City remain just above the relegation places in Sky Bet League One, despite a frustrating 1-0 loss at home to Port Vale on the weekend.

In a clash between two sides desperately trying to find some form, City enjoyed a fine start to the game and looked the more likely to break the deadlock.

A delightful cross from Immy Niskanen picked out Harry Kite at the back post but he was denied by a brave block from Vale ‘keeper Connor Ripley.

The decisive moment in the game arrived on the half-hour, when a near-post corner was flicked on for Oliver Arblaster to force it over the line.

The Grecians came out fighting after the break, Yanic Wildschut forcing another decent block from Ropley before Niskanen was unable to make proper contact on an inviting cross from Pierce Sweeney, and the City day ended with a red card for captain Will Aimson.