Exeter City Edge Past AFC Wimbledon with Crucial Late Winner

McMillan’s Strike Secures Vital Three Points

Exeter City made it back-to-back wins at St James Park with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon under the lights on Tuesday evening. Jack McMillan was the unlikely hero as his late goal earned Exeter a much-needed 1-0 League One win against AFC Wimbledon at St James Park. The result proves crucial for the Grecians, who continue their fight to climb away from the relegation zone in England’s third tier.

A Cagey Contest with Few Clear Chances

In a tight contest short on clear chances, it was Jack McMillan’s late strike that secured a valuable three points for the Grecians in Sky Bet League One. The sides went into the break level after a competitive but chance-light first half. The match saw both teams struggle to create clear-cut opportunities, with defensive solidity taking precedence over attacking flair throughout most of the evening.

AFC Wimbledon, enjoying a strong start to life back in the third tier, posed threats in the second half. The best chance of the match so far fell to Bugiel in the 66th minute when he burst into the box one-on-one with Whitworth, only to shoot straight at the Exeter goalkeeper. However, the visitors were unable to capitalise on their opportunities.

The Decisive Moment

In the 80th minute, Niskanen produced excellent work down the right-hand side before delivering for Macmillan, who found himself unmarked and calmly slotted past Bishop to give Exeter a late 1–0 lead. The goal came at a critical juncture, with Exeter needing results to improve their league position.

The closing moments were tense and scrappy, with Wimbledon pushing desperately for an equaliser. Wimbledon’s final chance arrived in stoppage time when Lewis rose to meet a cross, but his header drifted narrowly over, sealing Exeter’s hard-fought victory.

Significance for Both Clubs

The victory represents an important step for Exeter City, who entered the match in 20th position in League One. Building on their emphatic 4-0 FA Cup victory over Wycombe Wanderers just three days earlier, the Grecians demonstrated resilience and determination to secure consecutive home wins. For AFC Wimbledon, sitting comfortably in ninth place, the defeat represents a setback in their promotion ambitions following their play-off success in May.

Manager Gary Caldwell will hope this result marks a turning point in Exeter’s season, with the three points providing both a confidence boost and crucial breathing space from the relegation positions as the winter fixtures intensify.