Exeter City Manager Shares Honest View Ahead Of FA Cup Third-Round Draw
Exeter City head into Monday’s FA Cup third-round draw on the back of a confident 4-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers. The result lifted the mood around St James Park and gave the club a welcome boost as attention turned to the next stage of the competition. The manager spoke after the match and shared an honest view on the type of opponent he would like to see when the draw is made. His remarks followed a strong afternoon in which Exeter played with purpose and control.
Interest in the draw grew quickly after the final whistle. Some early discussion focused on how teams at this point are viewed once numbers start circulating on several new betting sites UK players have access to, which usually put out outright prices soon after the draw is completed. For instance, pre-draw markets typically emerge post-draw, but the weekend's second-round win (4-0 vs Wycombe) positions Exeter as underdogs against any Premier League side, aligning with the manager's likely preference for glamorous matchups despite public sentiment favoring favorites. For the second-round match on December 6, Exeter were underdogs at around 3/1 to 15/4, which is a 27% implied chance to win, while Wycombe were favoured at 10/11 to Evens; Exeter defied the odds with their victory
These figures often lean towards caution for clubs outside the top two divisions. Exeter were also treated that way before Saturday’s match, yet they went on to deliver one of their most confident displays of the season. Gary Caldwell’s verdict feels steady when placed next to that wider outlook. He speaks from the touchline and from the progress he sees, while outside views rely more on long-term trends.
Exeter’s position remains the same for now, yet Saturday’s match adds a fresh layer to the picture. Even though they began as underdogs, that win reminded supporters and observers alike that numbers can only give a loose sense of expectation. Once the draw is made, the talk will move to who stands in their way, not just the figures that circulate online.
The match against Wycombe was the type of afternoon any manager would welcome. Exeter settled quickly, moved the ball well, and pressed with real purpose. Wycombe could not keep pace once the second goal went in, and from that point the match belonged to the home side. Energy stayed high across the pitch. Passes were firm. Runs were well timed. The players kept their shape and stayed alert, turning possession into chances with confidence. The scoreline felt like a fair reflection of the work put in.
After the match, the manager gave credit to his players for sticking to the plan and staying disciplined. His comments on the draw were measured. He did not lean towards any extreme. He acknowledged the appeal of a big name without losing sight of the value of a winnable tie. He spoke with the calm tone that has shaped much of Exeter’s season so far. He wants progress but knows each round brings its own story.
Now the club waits for Monday evening. Exeter hold ball number 61, and attention will turn sharply once that number comes out. A Premier League trip would bring attention. A home tie would bring comfort. Whatever happens, Saturday’s win means they step into the third round with confidence, a clear voice from the manager, and a sense that they have earned their place. The draw will decide the next stop, yet the strength of their performance sets the tone for the days ahead.
