Goalkeeper nets goal to enhance Exeter’s survival chances and elevates Cardiff from League One.
Exeter goalkeeper Jack Bycroft netted a remarkable equaliser in the dying moments of stoppage time, securing a point for his team in a thrilling six-goal match against League One play-off contenders Stockport.
The 24-year-old keeper advanced forward and delivered a powerful header from Danny Andrew’s corner, keeping Exeter’s survival aspirations alive and igniting celebrations for Cardiff, who achieved promotion as Stockport dropped points.
The match was characterized by its back-and-forth nature, with County taking the lead in the ninth minute when a cross from Jack Diamond was mishandled by the Exeter defense, allowing Malik Mothersille to score from eight yards out.
Mothersille then turned into a provider in the 29th minute, finding the unmarked Josh Stokes, who calmly finished from 10 yards.
Exeter quickly responded with a well-executed half-volley by Reece Cole from the edge of the penalty area in the 35th minute, completing a move he had initiated.
County had numerous opportunities to secure the victory but squandered their chances. When they did manage to get shots on target, they were met by a resolute Bycroft.
Exeter equalised in the 70th minute when substitute Timur Tutierov volleyed in from Ilmari Niskanen’s cross, just eight minutes after entering the match. However, County regained the lead in the 77th minute when a shot from Louie Barry struck the post, and substitute Odin Bailey was quickest to react, scoring the rebound.
Both teams had opportunities, but Bycroft ultimately became the hero six minutes into stoppage time with the final moment of an exhilarating match.
In other action, Cardiff captain Rubin Colwill gave his team a 1-0 lead at halftime with a header at the back post in the 40th minute, and Omari Kellyman extended their lead 10 minutes into the second half.
Daniel Kyerewaa reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute, but defender Perry Ng secured the victory four minutes from the end.
Reading defender Jeriel Dorsett missed a close-range chance, and winger Kyerewaa shot narrowly wide as the Royals started positively.
However, Colwill broke the stalemate with a well-placed header past home goalkeeper Joel Pereira, following a cross from Ryan Wintle.
The Bluebirds added a second when Kellyman evaded the offside trap and calmly finished for his ninth goal of the season.
The hosts pulled one back when Kyerewaa scored on the follow-up after Cardiff keeper Nathan Trott could only deflect Lewis Wing’s powerful free-kick.
Nevertheless, Ng’s excellent angled shot from 20 yards settled the match as Cardiff’s 2,935 supporters celebrated enthusiastically.
Press Association contributed to this report
