Plymouth 1 (Sims)
Exeter 0

H-T: 0-0

THE Football League's most prolific goal scorers meet the most leaky defence when Bristol Rovers go to Exeter today- but last night Rovers' boss Bobby Gould was warning his side not to expect an easy ride.

Gould returned from watching Exeter's 1-0 defeat at Plymouth with the message: "Exeter might be near the bottom of the Third Division but they never stop running. We must match their work-rate. Rovers need a win at Exeter to continue the momentum begun by their 2-1 victory over Sheffield United last week. On paper Rovers, who have scored 76 Third Division goals, should have nothing to fear from Exeter, who have now let in 86.

But Exeter's recent home form is impressive, and Gould returned yesterday from a last minute form check impressed with the work rate of Exeter's midfield. "When we played them at Christmas it finished 4-4, but to be honest I'd settle for a 1-0 win and I'm sure all our fans who are travelling to watch the game would feel the same.  "Of course we want to play good football, but if it won't come, or if the pitch condi- tions aren't right, we have to roll up our sleeves and battle for the points which will keep us in touch with the leaders. "From now on it's all about effort and determination." Gould's bleak message will do nothing to deter around 2,000 fans travelling to Exeter. Rovers will be sending their own stewards to supervise the fans going by rail. And players Mick Barrett, Ian Holloway and Keith Curle will join them to help ensure a trouble-free afternoon. Rovers have an unchanged side from the one which beat Sheffield, with Nick Platnauer, scorer of seven goals in his last nine games, shaking off a knee injury. Archie Stephens remains substitute. Exeter won't name their team until this morning after a fitness check on skipper John Delve, who limped out of yesterday's match at Plymouth.

Exeter Team 

Attendance 8,856