Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell was deeply unhappy with ‘every aspect’ of his side’s performance during their 2-0 home defeat to Northampton on Saturday.

am HoskinsThe Grecians have made a strong start to the League One season but their momentum was halted by the Cobblers as S and Patrick Brough struck in each half to secure a well-deserved away victory.

“It’s obviously very disappointing,” Caldwell said. “We knew it was going to be an emotional and physical challenge to recover from the win over Luton, but we didn’t show up today.”

“We have to take it on the chin and make no excuses.” We were nothing near good enough, and there were other facets of our performance that were unsatisfactory. It’s a truly dismal performance and outcome.

“From the first minute, I thought we were sloppy. We didn’t play in the places we desired, we didn’t pass the ball with conviction, and we didn’t generate choices for the man in possession.

“We weren’t good enough in duels when we lost the ball, and we lost too many second balls.” Every part of our game fell short of our expectations, and we must be honest with ourselves about this.

“You have to be ready to go from Saturday to Tuesday to Saturday if you want to be a big team and a big player.” I believe we weren’t on it psychologically, and as a staff, we need to look at that and make sure we get them in a better place. We must all examine ourselves and demonstrate a reaction.”