Hoskins’ smart finish capped off an excellent move on 20 minutes before Brough rubber-stamped victory with a slick breakaway goal in stoppage-time. Town also defended excellently on their way to a third clean sheet of the season. Here are our player ratings from St James Park...
5. Patrick Brough
Harper was a tricky opponent but he stood his ground and ultimately won the battle. He's been threatening to score all season and at last he did so here, showing remarkable stamina and running power to go from one end to the other to gleefully tap home in stoppage-time... 9 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Marc Leonard
Didn't get on the ball as much as he's become accustomed to this season but he's equally adept at the other side of the game. His work alongside McWilliams prevented Exeter from playing through midfield whilst also laying the platform for numerous counter-attacks... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Shaun McWilliams
Fabulous vision and weight of pass sent Hoskins through on goal to give Cobblers a crucial first half lead. That was the highlight of an all-action, dominant midfield display. He ran, he tackled and he created. He might have scored too if not for a brilliant defensive challenge... 9 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton
8. Mitch Pinnock
Was afforded the kind of space and freedom that he thrives upon. Great cross was almost converted by Hoskins early on before he helped knit together several breakaways in the second half... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton