Jordan Tillson praised the work of his teammates on Tuesday night despite Exeter City falling to a 2-1 defeat at home to Charlton Athletic in the opening round of the Carabao Cup.
The Grecians took a second-half lead when Lee Holmes’ free-kick drifted in at the back post but Charlton turned the game on its head with goals from Billy Clarke and Regan Charles-Cook.
“We were disappointed we conceded the two goals,” said Jordan. “On Saturday (against Cambridge) we dug in well and kept a clean sheet and it didn’t quite happen today. However, we have got to move on and look forward to Swindon Town on Saturday.”
City had a couple of chances to extend their lead when they were in front. Holmes had a goal disallowed at the back post and Liam McAlinden was denied by a good save from Dillon Phillips.
Asked if they were turning points in the match, Jordan added: “It is obviously a different game at 2-0 but we felt quite confident we could keep on going and create more chances but it didn’t quite fall to us.
“I thought the boys gave it everything though. Reuben (Reid) and Liam (McAlinden) worked hard up front and Lee Holmes who got on the end of a couple of crosses.
“Then Troy Archibald-Henville and Luke Croll at the back. I thought they were both excellent. They haven’t played so much football from pre-season and they didn’t look out of place which is great.”
Jordan has started the opening two games of the season, playing alongside Lloyd James in central midfield. Speaking about the partnership, Jordan said: “I have played a lot of games with Lloyd James at the back end of last season and I’ve always enjoyed playing alongside him.
“I would like to think he enjoys playing alongside me. We have got a little bit of a partnership and I would like to continue it but there is a lot of competition for places and I think that is the best way for the squad to be.
“Everyone is fighting fit and ready to go because we have got that really good competition for places.”