JL: “They clearly wanted a draw and got it”

Views from Joseph Lovett after Saturday’s 0-0 draw at home against Exeter City in League Two: “Personally thought a draw was probably a fair result, though both teams should have scored at least one. Exeter dominated the first half and we dominated the second half. They clearly wanted a draw and got it. The result definitely puts Exeter in the better position with their impressive home record, but we’re not out of it!

First half we can consider ourselves a bit lucky to go into halftime at parity. Stockton really should have stuck away one of his chances. Thought we defended him (and Exeter) pretty well throughout. However, apart from the one half-chance Green had, we created pretty much nothing first half.

Second half was a completely different story. We were on top and really should have bagged a goal. Having said that, it was another game where our set pieces weren’t good enough and we seemed unable to complete simple 5-yard passes. Also thought we were far too slow to move the ball around. Green, in particular, was at fault for this, he seems to take an age before making a decision. This is why I would stick him up top and let him just run on to things and strike the ball.

Agree with the points above regarding late substitutions. It was obvious that some players had nothing left to give towards the end and usually the Cowleys are better at player management than that.

Rhead was dominant in the air and this alone gives us hope in the next game. Woodyard is a fitness machine and is probably still running around. Thought Harry looked out most dangerous player today. Their defenders really didn’t like him running at them.

Bit concerned that Wharton went off injured. We really are the walking wounded! Freck, Habergham, Rowe, a less than fully fit Eardley and now potentially Wharton! So on that alone to get a point was good going!

Quite disappointed with the Exeter fans this time around. Thought they made plenty of noise in the league game so was expecting a good atmosphere, but, we’re pretty silent for most of the game. Hats off to the 617 who made a constant wall of noise throughout.

On to Thursday for a really tense game. Gutted I can’t get a ticket, but at least it’s on TV. We’ve got nothing to lose!”

Reaction from 100% Imps:

German Imp: “Think we missed a trick playing 4-3-3 at home, we are certainly not creating much from it. That said, we will probably have to play 4-3-3 in the away leg. However, I would play Pett instead of Whitehouse, Eardley continuing at left back if Habergham is not fit with Long on the right. Center backs 2 from Wilson, Waterfall, Wharton. Rhead, Palmer and Williams up front. Green looked tired to me, especially when tracking back second half.”

JT_LCFC: “I still think Exeter are there for the taking. We get called direct but they generally had one out ball to Stockley, they don’t hurt you out wide.”

Thank you to Graham Burrell and Lincoln City for the photograph!