Grecians boss Taylor expecting tough battle against 'seriously good' Cobblers

Having moved level on points with leaders Swindon Town last weekend, a draw on Saturday could be enough to take the Grecians top of Sky Bet League Two.

But they'll be eying more than that given their opponents have lost four straight games in all competitions, though Taylor is not underestimating Keith Curle's team, especially after losing this fixture last season.

"They were in really good form and have had a little blip in the last three games but they're still a really strong team at this level with some seriously good players," said Taylor.

"The reverse fixture was a high-quality League Two game. We were fortunate to come out on top on that occasion and we've got to do all the things we did that afternoon and a little bit more this weekend.

"They've got an experienced manager at this level and we found out how difficult a place it is to go to at this stage last season when we were out of the game in the first half-an-hour.

"We've got to start well. You don't always score as early as you want to but we've just got to stay in the game and not give them something to believe in and let them lift the atmosphere.

"Away from home you've got to be resolute and see out moments and then utilise the ball. All attributes will be needed in a game like this one."