EXETER, England (Interstat) — A late header from defender Jack McMillan gave Exeter City a 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon in a League One match on Tuesday afternoon at St James Park, defying a pregame projection of a draw.

The closely contested match, which saw both teams struggle to create clear chances for much of the evening, was decided in the 80th minute. McMillan rose highest to meet a perfectly delivered cross from fellow defender Jack Fitzwater, who was credited with the assist, and powered his finish past the Wimbledon goalkeeper to break the deadlock.

The goal capped a match that had been characterized by defensive discipline and physical midfield battles. The first significant flashpoint arrived in the 44th minute when Exeter’s Fitzwater received a yellow card. Wimbledon’s Johnly Yfeko was also booked in the 68th minute as the competitive tone persisted.

Exeter’s narrow win proved more decisive than forecasters had anticipated. Interstat’s game simulator had projected a 1-1 final score, while its ELO rating system gave the home side a 56 percent probability of securing all three points. The actual result delivered a more favorable outcome for the Grecians, who began their League One campaign with a win.

With the result, Exeter City opens its season record with one win and no losses, immediately placing points on the board in the third-tier competition. AFC Wimbledon, conversely, starts with one loss and no wins. The records across all competitions for both clubs mirror their League One standings after this single fixture.

The victory was built on a solid defensive performance from Exeter, which limited Wimbledon’s opportunities throughout the match. The decisive connection between the two defenders, Fitzwater and McMillan, ultimately provided the moment of quality required in a game of few clear-cut chances. Wimbledon’s attack was unable to find a response in the final 10 minutes plus stoppage time, leaving the south London club to travel home empty-handed.

The match was the first of the League One season for both clubs, setting an early tone for their respective campaigns. Exeter City will look to build on the momentum of a hard-fought home victory, while AFC Wimbledon seeks to regroup after a narrow defeat on the road.