SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH.

Southern League.

CITY v WEST HAM
A Capital Victory

Exeter City opened their season with a handsome victory, gained under trying conditions, inasmuch as they lost Harding five minutes from the start. Later in the game Strettle had the misfortune to strain his side somewhat badly.

 The visitors scored early through Puddefoot, who very smartly turned a centre from Ashton into the net. Following this came the injury to Harding, who damaged his knee and had to be carried off. Exeter, however, rallied strongly, and Lovett, with a quick dash through, equalised. From this point the game took a direct turn in favour of the City, Goodwin giving them the lead with a wonderful hook shot. Exeter pleased the crowd with delightful approach work, and Lovett got a third goal just before the interval. The second half was devoid of goals, but there was a good deal of exciting play. Exeter's defence, depleted though it was, displayed admirable coolness and resource, while their forward line should get plenty of goals this season, the material being at command for a clever, dashing attack.

 W.Goodwin was a capable leader, swinging the ball about with good effect, and the whole line played a capital combined game. The City half-backs were in great form, Lagan getting through any amount of work, while Smith and Rigby held their respective wings. Strettle, after the loss of Harding, was brilliant. West Ham were best served by Cope and Speak, a safe pair of backs, while Webster, the old Watford goalkeeper, accomplished some good work between the posts.

City:- Pym; Harding, Strettle; Rigby, Lagan, Smith; Holt, Green, Goodwin W., Lovett, and Goodwin F.

West Ham:- Webster; Cope, Speak; Fenwick, Askew, Randall; Ashton, Bailey, Puddefoot, Leafe, and Wright.

Referee:- Mr D.J.Sambrook, of Swansea.

Two of last year's players, Fort and Whittaker, have been transferred to Millwall. Bassett, who went to Swansea Town last season, has joined Southend United.

Reserve Friendly 
Argyle Reserves v City Reserves 

The following represented the City Reserves at Plymouth on Saturday in a friendly against the Argyle Reserves:- Loram; Lovell and Bowden; Marshall, Pratt, and Evans; Cox, Lewis, Hunter, Cowie, and Dockray.