Grecians looking to enhance slim play-off hopes

Exeter City take on Leyton Orient this weekend looking to put further pressure on the sides above them.

After three victories in a row City suddenly find themselves with an outside chance of sneaking into the play-offs. Rochdale currently occupy the illusive sixth spot with the Grecians three places and six points behind them with five matches to play.

If City are to remain in the promotion shake-up then victory over stuttering high-flyers Leyton Orient is imperative. Orient are three points above the Grecians but have only won once in their last seven games.

City`s season seemed to be heading for a solid but uneventful conclusion but Bournemouth`s recent dip in form has given hope to the chasing pack.

Paul Tisdale will have to make late decisions on the fitness of several players. John O`Flynn, Liam Sercombe, Billy Jones, Scot Bennett and Artur Krysiak have all been nursing niggling injuries this week.

Daniel Nardiello - who scored both goals in last weekends 2-0 victory at Bristol Rovers - will be hoping that he has done enough to warrant a starting role but may have to settle for a place on the bench.

Following Marcus Stewarts retirement last week Ben Watson will be hopeful of a rare appearance in the matchday squad. The striker scored twice in the midweek reserve game to aid his cause.

Orient are also plagued by injury doubts. Forward Alex Revell (knee), midfielder Jimmy Smith (knee) and defender Ben Chorley (thigh) are all struggling to be fit for the game.

When the sides met back in August Orient cruised to a 3-0 success over an injury hit City side.

Prediction: Exeter City 1-0 Leyton Orient

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