Plymouth Argyle win the Devon derby in the Carabao Cup

Plymouth Argyle hosted rivals Exeter City in the first round of the Carabao Cup at Home Park. Argyle ended the 2025/26 season losing just one of their last 12, while Exeter ended the campaign with just one win in 20.

Tom Cleverley's side were unbeaten in their six pre-season fixtures, winning five. For City, they played four games and picked up just one victory.

Argyle went into the clash as strong favourites, but in a derby, it was never going to be routine...

The game was a close contest, and at half-time, the scoreline was level. Although the sides were level, Argyle had the slight upper hand.

As the game entered the later stages, the score remained 0-0, but the biggest moment of the game occurred. Exeter City's Ethan Sutherland was sent off on his competitive debut for the club in the 88th minute.

The visitors had just a few minutes to hold out to send the tie to penalties, but Argyle punished the side with 10 men.

A pinpoint cross from Harvey White found the head of former Exeter City defender, Alex Harttidge, who gave the hosts the lead. In the 92nd minute, Plymouth were on course to qualify for the third round.

But the drama was not done there...

Aribim Pepple got off the mark for the season, scoring his team's second in the 94th minute to seal the win. The full-time whistle was blown, and Plymouth had won against their rivals Exeter 2-0.

Argyle will host Coventry City in the third round of the Carabao Cup, kicking off their season in the best way possible.