Exeter City’s Under-18s kicked off their campaign in Merit League Two with a 1-1 draw at Cheltenham Town U18s on Saturday.

Town made the stronger start, and after seven minutes, home forward, Ibby Olateju created the match’s first real opportunity, but goalkeeper Andrew Sowden's bravery smothered the Cheltenham danger.

The Grecians grew into the opening period, and their brightest moment came 11 minutes before half-time through Pedro Borges. The midfielder fired goalwards, but his effort flew just off target.

As the game ticked into the final 20 minutes, the Devonians opened the scoring when Alfie Cunningham advanced. The playmaker saw his first shot repelled, but he reacted quickest to tuck home the rebound and hand his team the lead.

That advantage, however, did not last for long, as Town hit back through Brad Burgess with their next attack.

Both teams enjoyed promising moments in the final stages, with the Robins perhaps coming closest to the day’s third goal through Freddy Wilcox.