Martin Gritton's 13th goal of the season proved decisive as promotion-chasing Torquay claimed a 1-0 win over Exeter.

Alex Russell's through-ball beat the Grecians offside trap and Gritton pounced to unleash a left-footed strike past goalkeeper Kevin Miller in the 28th minute.

The Gulls did not have it all their own way, though, and it took a brilliant double save from Kevin Dearden to deny Sean Devine and James Coppinger in the 39th minute.

Torquay nearly doubled their advantage with eight minutes remaining but Scott Hiley's goalline clearance denied Kevin Hill as Leroy Rosenior's men went on to register three important points.

Torquay: Dearden, Amankwaah, Canoville, Hazell, Woozley, Hill, Russell, Fowler, Bedeau, Gritton, Graham.
Subs: Van Heusden, Kuffour, Hockley, Wills, Hankin.

Exeter: Miller, Power, Gaia, Whitbread, Hiley, Pettefer, Cronin, Walker, Coppinger, Goodman, Devine.
Subs: Fraser, McConnell, Todd, Thomas, Moor.

Referee: T Bates (Stoke on Trent).