Cureton braced for tough test

Jamie Cureton believes Exeter will have to be at their best against Bristol Rovers if they are to move back into the automatic promotion spots.

The 37-year-old, who scored his 20th goal of the season in the victory over Northampton on Saturday, has seen the revitalised Pirates climb up the table since John Ward's return to the club. This fixture was due to take place on December 22 before a frozen pitch saw it postponed and Cureton, who spent four years with Rovers, knows they are a different prospect three months on. "I've seen them twice and they are a lot more organised and have a lot more belief," he said. "They've also picked up wins which is what they needed. "When we were due to go there they were at the foot of the table and confidence was shot. They are now one of the form teams and we aren't taking it for granted. "It is a tough team there and we have to go there with the right attitude." Bristol-born Cureton has fond memories of his time with Rovers and has been a familiar face at The Memorial Stadium when the Grecians are not in action, but he knows any personal ties to the club will go out of the window come 7:45pm. "It is a club close to my heart, the first club I ever watched back at Eastville," he said. "It was where I grew up and I still go back there when I'm not playing, I've got some good friends there so I go and watch. "Personally it is a good game for me. I'll probably have family and friends in the crowd booing and cheering me so it's a funny game. I've been back a few times and scored and I think they respect that I'm doing a job. "It is nice that they've got out of trouble I have to say but come Wednesday we need three points and I'll do my utmost to do that."