Grecians face Wigan in season’s final midweek clash

Exeter City return to St James Park on Tuesday night for their final midweek match under the lights this season, as they welcome Wigan Athletic in a 7.45pm kick-off.

After a 2-0 home defeat to promotion-chasing Stockport County on Saturday, the Grecians will be keen to bounce back - and finish their evening fixtures at SJP on a high.

Back in September, these two sides played out a goalless draw in Wigan. City had chances but couldn't find the breakthrough on that occasion, and they'll be hoping for sharper finishing this time around.

Manager Gary Caldwell is under no illusions about the threat posed by his former club, now under the guidance of Ryan Lowe.

“They are in a difficult position in the league, just below us and need to pick up points,” Caldwell said. “Every game they have been slightly different so they are still searching for that way to play. Short term they are looking to be hard to beat, and on Saturday they were like that and hard to break down.

“We know they have dangerous players up the top of the pitch too and if that starts to click for them then it's going to be a really hard game."

Wigan arrive in Devon having drawn 0-0 with Leyton Orient at the weekend, and Lowe has quickly instilled a more pragmatic style as they look to climb away from the drop zone.

For Exeter, this fixture offers a chance to reset and respond. Goalkeeper Joe Whitworth, whose loan spell from Crystal Palace has been a highlight, says the team are focused on getting back to form.

“Hopefully we can put on a good performance on Tuesday night and get the three points,” said Whitworth. “Saturday was a bit of a blip for us, but we know we can get back onto that winning streak and go again."

The 20-year-old stopper also reflected on his breakthrough EFL campaign.

“For me personally this season it's been massive to play as many games as I have and I have loved every minute of it. I have shown what I can do and learnt a lot too.”

Tuesday night’s fixture marks the last time this season that Grecians fans will see their team play under the lights at SJP - and the club is calling for big support to help make it a memorable one.