Town were good value for the lead after Dara Costelloe’s first half goal but Sonny Cox struck late on. Here are our player ratings from St James Park...
9. Sam Hoskins
Exeter's insistence on playing out from the back played into Town's hands and his energy hurried them into mistakes. One shot block when a pass might have been better. Less involved after the break... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
10. Tariqe Fosu
As bright and as lively as he's been in some time. Hesitated when one first half chance fell his way but linked to good effect with those around him and produced a lovely piece of skill to help create the goal. Went close again in the second half... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
11. Dara Costelloe
Led the line brilliantly. His hassling and harrying caused no end of problems for Exeter and provided Town's best route to goal. Great work to tee up Fosu. Lovely flick and smart finish to break the deadlock. Looping header also had Whitworth scrambling. Kept going and kept running despite being on the end of some rough treatment, though did eventually hobble off... 8 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton
12. Tyler Roberts
A first appearance of 2025 and a couple of tidy touches provided a glimpse of the quality Cobblers will need for the final two months of the season... 6 Photo: Pete Norton