Rotten weekend for Devon pro clubs

Just one point from a possible nine was a disappointing return for Devon pro clubs on the final football weekend in February.

It was always going to be difficult for Exeter City at play-off chasing Charlton Athletic but the lacklustre showing will be a major concern for manager Gary Caldwell, especially as the Grecians now sit just three points above the League One relegation zone, and all this after a torrid week that saw winger Ilmari Niskanen charged with drink driving.

An own goal from recent signing Angus MacDonald gave Charlton the lead on 20 minutes and the home side were in the clear when Tyreece swept home a sweet low finish to make it 2-0 midway through the second period.

A late third from Miles Leaburn rubbed salt into the Exeter wound and City badly need a response when Northampton visit St James Park on Saturday.

Plymouth Argyle were the only side to yield a point, but even they will feel short-changed after playing much of the second half against ten men in a crunch relegation battle with Cardiff City.

The Pilgrims fell behind to an early goal from Yousef Salech but were given a hefty boost when Dimitrios Goutas saw red for a professional foul on Bali Mumba, and Muhamed Tijani swiftly levelled with his first goal for the club.

Unfortunately, the Greens were unable to go one step further and the draw means they remain in the bottom three of the Sky Bet Championship, although the focus this week is a trip to Manchester City in the FA Cup.

Torquay United’s promotion hopes in the National League were dented by a heartbreaking 3-2 loss at Chelmsford City. After leading 2-0 at half-time, the Gulls were defeated by two goals in the final minutes.