Not the opening day outcome we wanted for last week, but here’s hoping second time’s the charm for Boro’. Now we’re free from the watchful gaze of the live Sky cameras and done with the Salford fairytale, we can get the 2019-20 show on the road. Sure, it’s one week behind schedule. Better late than never, though. And we’re back at our wonderful homestead – itself back up to its full quota of four stands. Give or take a few seats, obvs.
First time out indoors this season and Exeter City are in town. You might know ’em?
Stevenage v Exeter City: The Preview…
Who are Exeter City?
“I don’t think our record at Stevenage recently has been too good and it is up to us to put that right” – that’s the opinion of Grecians boss Matt Taylor. For us, it sounds good. But it ain’t exactly spot on. In truth, we’ve won just two of the last 10 meetings between us and them. Sure, there have been some draws – including our 1-1 stalemate last time out that ultimately cost us both a playoff place. But recent times have been much kinder to them.
Our Record vs Exeter City: P 24 — W 6 — D 9 — L 9 — F 22 — A 31 — Pts 24
Last time out: Stevenage 1-1 Exeter City, 22 April 2019
What’s their current form?
To be honest, we’re not all that bothered about their pre-season campaign. What we are bothered about is how they did on day one of term. Since you’re asking, Exeter come to us with three points on the board already; the Grecians getting the better of Macclesfield Town last weekend thanks to an 88th minute winner at Sid James’ Park.
Got a fun Exeter City fact?
In 2002, the club made Michael Jackson an honorary director. Why? We have absolutely no idea. Spoon-bending lad Uri Gellar was also on their board. Totes normal. Shamone!
How soon is now?
Erm, it’ll be along in five minutes.
What are the bookies saying?
Well, the good news is that you can probably get a decent price on a Boro’ win this week; 19/10 was available on a home win when we had a quick scan of the markets. Of course, it means the bad news is that we’re very much lined up to come second in this two-horse race. You can get 17/10 on the away win, but the price is as short as 6/4 in some places.
Who is Exeter City’s danger mouse?
Nicky Ajose definitely has more than enough about him to cause a problem or two for the Boro’ defence after his summer move from Charlton Athletic.
Who is reffing this?
Antony Coggins. Not good news, if only for the last time our paths crossed…
Our Record: P 3 — W 1 — D 1 — L 1 — F 5 — A 3
Last time out: Exeter City 1-0 Stevenage, 02 October 2018
And finally, what do you reckon?
A tough task is going to be made tougher with the lads who are expected to miss out this weekend. Even if we did have a full-strength squad to pick from, we’re not sure the gaffer yet knows what his strongest side is. Boro’ need to catch a break early doors, but playing at home could be a lift as we continue to feel our way into this new League Two season.
Stevenage v Exeter City prediction: 1-1 – Boro’ to huff and puff and concede a late leveller.
