In a home game against a team struggling to avoid relegation and with Dagenham with only one win in ten games, Grecian fans would have been relishing the opportunity for a home win, which would have consolidated City’s position in the coveted play off places.

Unfortunately it didn’t take long for those hopes to be smothered. Firstly Jamie Cureton was not on the team sheet having a late injury declaration, and within the first minute of the kick off, City defender Kevin Amankwaah was injured and was substituted.

With Steve Tully his normal replacement being unavailable having broken his toe in the week, Aaron Dawson, a recognised mid fielder was brought on to fill in at right back.

Two minutes later City went behind 1-0 following a succession of Dagenham corners when Scott Doe got the only goal of the game with a header at the near post.

This defeat was City’s third in eight games and confirms that the injuries have not only taken the heart out of the midfield set up, but for now seemingly also shattered the confidence in the ability of the players remaining to win games.

After the game Paul Tisdale commented: “It was disappointing. It has been a really bad week for us and I stood in the dressing room and listened to the players have their say. I’m pleased they said their piece. It wasn’t heated, but it was frustrated and I am quite philosophical about it .I am desperate to get into the playoffs, but we are finding it very difficult at the minute. But it’s not over and we go again at Rotherham on Tuesday and we will attack it in the best way we can”

Unfortunately City woes were added to at Tuesday evening’s game at Rotherham when the Grecians suffered a resounding 4-1 defeat at the hand of the Millers.

The first goal was scored in 64 seconds as Scot Bennett’s slack back pass was neatly tucked away for their first goal, and this was followed by two more home goals making it 3-0 within the first 30 minutes.

A 51st minute goal put the game beyond any comeback and a conciliation goal was bundled in from a corner. With Bradford also beating Bristol Rovers by the same score line Exeter fall out of the playoffs.

Clearly this is a difficult time and it’s important to keep the faith. There are still games to be played and this is not the time to give up. Key players could come back from injury and lady luck may yet play her part.

This Saturday City will be on their travels to the Memorial Stadium the home of Wimbledon.

They last played Bristol Rovers losing 1-0, with the second worst home record in the division, having only won five games at home, and with the Grecians away record there is a chance to bag the three points. Come on you Reds!

A key date for your diary is this coming Monday, April 15, when Paul Tisdale will be visiting the East Devon Grecians at the War Memorial Club with 7.30 pm start time.

There will be the usual question and answer session which is a super opportunity to learn more about our great club, manger and team. All are welcome and there is no charge for this event. Check out our Website www.eastdevongrecians.com/