Match Report: Exeter City 2-2 Liverpool
Line-UpsExeter City: Olejnik, Woodman, Noble (Oakley 61'), Ribeiro (Davies 75'), Holmes (Grant 84'), Nicholls, Moore-Taylor (capt), Reid, Nichols, Tillson, Brown.
Subs: Hamon, McAllister, Morrison, Hoskins.
Goals: Nichols 11', Holmes 45+1'
Liverpool: Bogdan, Enrique, Benteke (capt), Ilori (Maguire 77'), Brannagan, Stewart, Kent (Chirivella 57'), Smith, Sinclair (Ojo 71'), Teixeira, Randall.
Subs: Fulton, Lallana, Lucas, Masterson.
Goals: Sinclair 14', Smith 73'
Referee: Stuart Attwell
Report
EXETER CITY are heading to Anfield after holding Premier League Liverpool to a thrilling 2-2 draw at St James Park.
David Noble and Christian Ribeiro returned to the starting line-up for Exeter City to take on Liverpool in the most eagerly-anticipated match of the season. Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp named a very youthful eleven, but did have Belgian international Christian Benteke up front as captain.
With St James Park full to the rafters and absolutely rocking, the place nearly fell down when Jamie Reid centred for Tom Nichols to fire City in front just over ten minutes in. Songs for Stanno rang out as the stadium bounced, but unfortunately it was a lead that was only to last for a few minutes, as Jerome Sinclair took advantage of a mistake in the City backline to fire past Bobby Olejnik.
David Noble had a wonderful chance to put City in front once again, but could only fire over from Christian Ribeiro's cross. But City would end the half with the advantage after a classic moment in front of the cameras, as Lee Holmes whipped a beautiful corner straight in past Adam Bodgan.
HALF-TIME: EXETER CITY 2-1 LIVERPOOL
Both sides returned to the pitch for the second half to a loud reception, but it was clearly the home side that enjoyed the more positive one. Bobby Olejnik was crucial in keeping City in front, saving from Christian Benteke's header. but could do nothing to stop Brad Smith from rifling in an equaliser with just over fifteen minutes to go.
City picked it up from there; the introductions of Joel Grant and Matt Oakley helping to retain some possession, and they did well to limit their visitors to half-chances.
Despite some hairy moments, City are still in the hat for the Fourth Round, and will head to Anfield to settle the tie.
FULL-TIME: EXETER CITY 2-2 LIVERPOOL
Attendance: 8,298 (1,297 away)
Man of the Match: Lee Holmes