Merseysider`s Tranmere make the long journey to St. James Park this Saturday. After two successive games in the South East, Paul Tisdale`s men return to home territory for the first time in three weeks. City will see this as a good opportunity of securing their first home victory in League 1, and making St. James Park the fortress which yielded 13 league victories last term.
Vital Quotes:
Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale has revealed the mood has been brighter around the Cat and Fiddle training ground after last weeks 1-1 draw at Leyton Orient. Tisdale told the official site that “it has been a brighter place this week”. “I am pleased about the performance last week and the result, which makes us feel better” he added.
Exeter City Team News:
Paul Tisdale is expected to give three players their home debuts. This will of course be a second home debut for on loan striker Stuart Fleetwood, but fellow loanees Oscar Jansson and Craig Noone will step out onto the St. James Park turf for the first time in city colours.
However, three players are ruled out. Striker Craig McAllister is not yet fully fit despite lining upfront for the reserves in midweek, whilst Scott Golbourne was injured in that second string match at Forest Green. Midfielder Joe Burnell has a slight muscle strain.
Striker Ben Watson impressed once again in midweek for the reserves with a hat trick, and with it five goals in one and a half games, but will not yet be considered for the first team.
Player to watch: Craig Noone
The left winger on a three month loan from Plymouth Argyle was impressive as he scored on his debut at Leyton Orient last time out
Tranmere Rovers Team News:
Tranmere have signed midfielder Seb Carole on a short term deal and he is expected to feature. However, Rovers` first choice keeper Luke Daniels is a major doubt and Joe Collister is expected to deputise. Defender Marlon Broomes is expected to be fit after he was subbed through injury in last Saturday`s 3-2 defeat at home to Walsall.
Player to watch: Alan Mahon
The experienced midfielder returned to Tranmere this season.
Last Meetings
The two sides last met at this level in the 1990/91 season. A goalless draw at St. James Park in October 1990 was followed by a 1-0 victory for Tranmere the following April at Prenton Park.
Match Prediction:
An important game for the Grecians, and a big chance to pick up their first home victory of the season:
Exeter City 2 Tranmere Rovers 1
Next Fixtures:
Coca Cola League 1
26/09/09
Charlton Athletic v Exeter City
The Valley
