EXETER CITY

The Grecians are no strangers to the play-offs, having been in the top seven three years out of four. The narrowly missed out in 2018/19, taking the battle down to the final day, just as Colchester did. It was little surprise the two made it into the top seven again this season, but Grecians’ fans will be hoping this is finally their time. Beating local rivals Plymouth 3-0 was a high point of the season, but if they fail to follow them out of the division it will be heartbreaking.

Randell Williams and Ryan Bowman are the key players for Exeter, who usually operate a 4-2-3-1 formation. Williams started out at Crystal Palace and he’s quickly asserted himself as a promising figure at St James Park, able to operate on the flank or at full-back. Bowman, signed as a replacement for the free-scoring Jayden Stockley, is the leading goal-getter but isn’t quite as lethal as the man he replaced. However, Nicky Ajose may also get the nod, with the experienced Nicky law behind in the ten role.

The combative influence of Nigel Atangana may also be key here as they look to win the midfield battle in a clash of two football-focused sides. One possible curveball in Exeter’s approach may be a change to a 3-4-1-2, which they played when the two sides drew 0-0 in January. On that occasion, Bowman and Ajose shared the forward line, although the game ended 0-0.