Three weeks ago, reserve keeper Jack Bycroft found himself in the spotlight after Crystal Palace loanee Joe Whitworth suffered a warm‑up injury. With only four Vertu Trophy appearances that season, Bycroft had been idle since December. The sudden switch thrust him into a relegation‑pressure match against Leyton Orient.

He responded with a solid display, keeping two clean sheets in five League One games and helping Exeter City narrow the gap to safety. The club has lost only one of its last five matches, now just two points shy of the safety zone with two fixtures remaining.

During the game, Bycroft made the moment memorable by scoring a late header that secured a point. He said the goal felt like a ‘special moment’ and that the club needed any point to boost confidence ahead of clashes with Burton and Bradford.

Bycroft’s unexpected contribution underlines the volatility of League One survival battles. With the team’s form improving, the 6ft 4in keeper’s goal could be the catalyst that turns Exeter into a push‑for‑safety squad rather than a relegation candidate. This goal also showcases Bycroft’s aerial threat, offering a new weapon for manager to use in tight matches.