Exeter City’s Under-18s began 2024 in the best possible way with a dominant 5-0 victory over Cheltenham Town U18s on Saturday, writes Derek Baker.

The Grecians began the game with real intent, and opened the scoring when Jude Horn released Theo Cutler for a composed finish. In a frenetic start to the game, City doubled their lead with a delightful 25-yard curler into the bottom corner from skipper Tom Dean.

Six minutes before half-time, Exeter had their third goal of the morning when Callum Graham flicked the ball in from a corner, extending the Grecians’ advantage.

As the clock ticked past the hour though, City had their fourth. Dean forced a fine save from the Cheltenham custodian but Jake Richards was on hand to convert the rebound. Exeter completed their victory with a lovely goal from substitute Kieran Wilson, turning smartly in the box before firing a low finish into the net.