Exeter City Football Club crashed out of the Carabao Cup in devastating fashion, conceding two stoppage-time goals to lose 2-0 to local rivals Plymouth Argyle. Alex Hartridge's 91st-minute header broke the deadlock, before Bim Pepple sealed the win two minutes later. The defeat extends Exeter's poor recent form, with the Grecians finishing 21st in League One last season (12W-13D-21L, 49 pts).
What happened in the match?
The game remained goalless until the dying moments, with both sides struggling to create clear chances. Exeter's best opportunity came when Andrew Oluwabori missed a headed chance early in the second half. Plymouth dominated possession but failed to convert their chances until Hartridge's late header from a corner. Pepple then doubled the lead after Exeter's Ethan Sutherland was sent off for a second yellow card.
Why it matters for Exeter City Football Club
This loss continues a difficult period for Exeter, who finished last season with just 49 points and a goal difference of -9 (52 scored, 61 conceded). The Grecians are now 54 points behind leaders Lincoln and will need to improve significantly to avoid another relegation battle. Manager Matt Taylor admitted his side lacked creativity but praised their discipline.
What comes next?
Plymouth will now face Premier League side Coventry City in the second round. Exeter, meanwhile, will focus on their League One campaign, which begins soon. The Grecians will need to find more attacking threat if they are to climb the table this season.
