Exeter City are preparing for a significant League Two test against York City this weekend. Manager Matt Taylor has highlighted the specific challenge posed by York's style of play, which has seen them dominate the ball more than any other team in the Football League so far this campaign.
According to a report from DevonLive, Taylor's side travel north following their first win and first goals of the season, a 2-0 victory over Accrington Stanley last Saturday. That result came after an opening day draw away to Rotherham United and a win against Bristol Rovers. The trip to York represents another step in their early-season schedule, with home games against Barnet and Walsall to follow.
What makes York City a difficult opponent?
York City are expected to be among the teams battling at the top of the League Two table this season. Their early form supports that prediction. They began their campaign with a win against Grimsby Town and have already faced two other promotion candidates, performing well in those matches. The most striking statistic is their dominance in possession. Taylor pointed out that York currently have the highest average possession percentage in the entire Football League, a fact that will shape Exeter's tactical approach.
"We are under no illusions what we're going to be up against this weekend, but it's another challenge to look forward to," Taylor said. He added context to York's strong start, noting, "I think they've got the most amount of possession in the Football League so far this season, and a good crowd supporting them well on the back of their promotion." York returned to the Football League via promotion and have carried that momentum into the new season.
How is Exeter City's squad shaping up?
Exeter will be without midfielder Harry Kite for the journey. Kite is managing a tight calf issue and is not expected to be available for selection. The club anticipates his return to training by the end of next week, meaning he could be in contention for subsequent matches. In terms of reinforcements, Taylor confirmed that no new recruits are expected to be available for the York City fixture. The squad that secured the win against Accrington will largely form the basis for the team selection.
Exeter City have been a Football League side since earning promotion and are looking to establish themselves firmly in League Two. Their current form shows promise, but the match at York is viewed as a barometer for their aspirations. You can view the full squad available for selection on our squad page.
What is the broader context for York City?
York City's strong start places them as a team to watch. Their ability to control games through possession makes them a unique challenge in the division. For Exeter, the match is an opportunity to test their defensive organization and counter-attacking plans against one of the league's most ball-dominant sides. The game also comes at a time when York are buoyed by their home support following a successful promotion campaign.
Looking at the wider picture, York's early-season data is impressive. They sit 3rd in League Two with 7 points from 3 games, having won two and drawn one. Their recent form reads WDW. In attack, they have scored 6 goals while conceding 4, giving them a +2 goal difference. Their next fixture after hosting Exeter is an away trip to face Crewe Alexandra, who are 5th in the table, on September 5th. Fans can track the team's progress throughout the season on our standings and stats pages. Exeter City's next match is against York City at Bootham Crescent on Saturday.
