Luton edge five-goal thriller against Exeter to keep play-off hopes alive

Luton stretched Exeter’s winless run to 10 games by triumphing 3-2 at Kenilworth Road.

The Hatters led after 13 minutes when Liam Walsh’s corner headed in by Kasey Palmer for his third goal in three games.

Emilio Lawrence shot straight at Joe Whitworth from 20 yards before the game came to life as Exeter levelled in the 25th minute, with Reece Cole slamming home.

Town were back in front four minutes later after Jack Aitchinson handballed in the area for Jordan Clark to roll home the penalty.

City should have levelled, but Jack McMillan was denied by Josh Keeley and he put the rebound against a post.

Although Whitworth denied Palmer, he was beaten in first-half stoppage time. George Saville’s free-kick was turned home by Hakeem Odoffin for his first Luton goal.

Exeter had a goal back four minutes into the second period when Timur Tutierov waltzed into the area and found Ilmari Niskanen to tap in.

Luton should have added a fourth as Devante Cole fired at Whitworth, while Clark hammered against the woodwork, but they held on to make it back-to-back victories.