Countdown to Cheltenham: The Dismissal of Captain Coles

It’s not often fans will cheer when hearing when one of their own has been sent off, but Exeter City fans took some relief from Danny Coles dismissal on Saturday in that he’ll miss the next game.

Danny Coles will now miss the home game against Cheltenham after 2 reckless tackles earned him two yellows and therefore a sending off. The first tackle led to Bury taking the lead 1-0, his sending off meant a stretched defence looking for an equaliser which meant an easy 2nd goal for the Shakers, and a return trip to Exeter for the Grecians with no points.

His not his first horrible mistake that has cost us valuable points. Who ever forget his sliced clearance when under no pressure that led to a Burton corner and the Brewers scoring an 88th minute winner. That point would have seen us 2 places further up League 2 today, and 1 point further away from Northampton Town who occupy that last relegation place.

His popularity with Exeter City fans furthered dwindled when he took to Twitter after the home match with Bury, when the substitution David Wheeler was booed, and Coles being removed was cheered.

Then to cap a miserable season, he inexplicable handled the ball inside the box at Home Park last month, allowing Argyle to take the lead in the Devon Derby. Thankfully the rest of the team made up for it and the game was won 2-1.

The paying faithful see a lack of leadership by the captain, a lack of encouragement for his team mates, poor positioning and hasty clearances meaning the opposition return with the ball. Even his headed goals from corners have dried up for him. 2 goals this season, one of the opening day of the season against his old team Bristol Rovers and another away too Pompey.

Most fans won’t be sad that he is missing. Changes within the team are needed to get some vital points on board. Let’s hope that whatever replacement is brought in from the squad does well, and is undroppable! 3 points is a must on Saturday.