Luton Town edge five-goal thriller to deepen Exeter City woes

Luton Town extended Exeter City’s miserable run to 10 matches without a win after securing a dramatic 3-2 victory at Kenilworth Road.

The hosts made a bright start and took the lead in the 13th minute when Liam Walsh’s corner was met by Kasey Palmer, whose header marked his third goal in as many games.

Exeter threatened a response through Emilio Lawrence, but his effort from distance was comfortably gathered by Joe Whitworth. However, the visitors soon found their rhythm and equalised midway through the first half, as Reece Cole emphatically fired home in the 25th minute.

Luton responded swiftly, restoring their advantage just four minutes later. Jack Aitchinson was penalised for handball in the box, allowing Jordan Clark to calmly convert from the penalty spot.

Exeter had a golden opportunity to draw level again before the break. Jack McMillan saw his initial effort saved by Josh Keeley, only to strike the post with the rebound.

The Hatters capitalised on that let-off in first-half stoppage time. George Saville’s free-kick caused problems in the area and Hakeem Odoffin was on hand to turn the ball home, netting his first goal for the club.

Exeter refused to fold and reduced the deficit early in the second half. Timur Tutierov surged into the penalty area before setting up Ilmari Niskanen, who finished from close range.

Luton pushed for a decisive fourth goal, with Devante Cole denied by Whitworth and Clark striking the woodwork. Despite late pressure from the visitors, the home side held firm to claim consecutive victories and pile further pressure on their struggling opponents.

City are now just one point above the relegation zone, and to deepen the dark mood, arch rivals Plymouth Argyle moved to within two points of the play-offs with a 1-0 victory over Stevenage.