University of Gloucestershire’s Men’s Football Twos were defeated in their opening BUCS Western fixture 4-3 by a ruthless Exeter Fifths side at Plock Court.
A brace from Callum Bridge and a goal from winger Jack Wilcox was not enough for Gloucester as a late penalty from Exeter rewarded them with all three points.
The result sees Gloucester sit in fourth place in the table, with goals scored keeping them above the bottom two whereas Exeter sit top having won two from two in the league.
Gloucester Manager Tom Westlake was pleased with his side’s performance despite the defeat.
“I felt we were the better side over the whole game. We didn’t deserve the defeat but when you give away two penalties, you’re going to leave yourself vulnerable to that happening.
“Individual errors leading to mistakes and we have to remember it’s a new team trying to gel together. I think we deserved the win and believe we will win games this season but it’s not a great start.”
Exeter started the game on the front foot and took the lead in the 10th minute.
A loose touch from Gloucester’s Dom Koziol saw Exeter rob the midfielder of possession and fire home from close range.
Gloucester would respond instantly however and found an equalizer on the 12th minute.
Midfielder Bridge won the ball back in Exeter’s half and rolled in winger Wilcox whose strike found the bottom corner.
The home side would then go ahead on the half hour mark through Player of the Match Bridge.
The 19-year-old’s superb strike from distance found the bottom corner and gave Gloucester a deserved lead.
Westlake was massively impressed by the first year’s display on his debut for the club.
“He (Bridge) was very good. He was quality on the ball and carried it really well. He probably could’ve nicked a third late on as well! He’s a top player and is someone we hope will stay with us for the whole season.”
The away side would level just before the interval from the penalty spot, after defender Joel Biddlecombe brought down Exeter’s striker.
A dramatic 10 minute period saw three goals scored and where the game was ultimately decided.
Exeter would retake the lead on the 72nd minute with a composed finish from inside the box.
Gloucester would respond in quick fashion for the second time in the match with Bridge again firing home from range.
However the home side would be denied any points from the game when Exeter converted their second penalty in the 80th minute.
The penalty would bring an end to the scoring and despite late pressure from Gloucester for an equaliser, the game would end in defeat for Westlake’s side.
Gloucester will look to bounce back next week as they travel to Winchester to face their threes.
To stay updated throughout the day with other stories click on the link to go to our live blog.
