Salford City produced a late surge to secure a 2-1 victory over Exeter City on Saturday, a result that strengthens their position at the top of League Two. Goals from Luke Garbutt and a dramatic 88th-minute winner from substitute Will Aimson overturned an early deficit at the Peninsula Stadium.
The win extends Salford's remarkable winning streak to five matches, a run that has solidified their place at the summit. They now have 28 points from 13 games, holding a three-point cushion over second-placed Barnet as they prepare for their next league fixture against Northampton Town at home on November 14.
How the game unfolded
Exeter City took the lead against the run of play in the 34th minute. Anthony Scully delivered a cross from the right and Sonny Cox was on hand to steer a finish past goalkeeper Will Norris. Salford had started brightly but found themselves trailing, with Norris and midfielders Elliot Bonds and Brendan Sarpeng-Wiredu all receiving first-half yellow cards.
The home side's pressure finally told after the hour mark. In the 66th minute, Luke Garbutt found space on the edge of the area and fired a low shot into the bottom corner to level the scores. Manager Cklamovski then introduced Matt Butcher and, crucially, Will Aimson as the game entered its final stages.
The decisive moment arrived with just two minutes of normal time remaining. Abraham Odoh, who had been a persistent threat, delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Aimson, who had only been on the pitch for six minutes, rose highest to power a header past goalkeeper Bycroft and send the home supporters into raptures.
A winning machine
This latest comeback victory is characteristic of Salford's season. They have now scored 23 goals while conceding 14. The team's recent form, shows a perfect record in their last five outings, including wins over Walsall, Bristol Rovers, and Crawley Town.
Cklamovski's side now turns its attention to the FA Cup. They travel to Brunton Park to face Carlisle United in the first round next Saturday, aiming to carry their league momentum into the cup competition. The squad will be buoyed by their ability to grind out results, a trait that has them firmly in the promotion picture as November begins.
