Sonny Cox scored his first goal in almost a year to rescue a point for Exeter in their 1-1 League One draw with relegation rivals Northampton at St James Park.

The opening quarter was cagey with neither side creating much in the way of clear-cut chances. Northampton did have a great chance five minutes before half-time, though, when Alex Hartridge was robbed of possession but Tariqe Fosu took too long to get his shot away and Angus MacDonald was able to make the block.

However, on 42 minutes, the Cobblers were in front when Exeter failed to deal with Fosu, whose shot was blocked, but Dara Costelloe was on hand to turn in the loose ball home from eight yards.

Exeter almost hit straight back but MacDonald’s superb strike was brilliantly saved by Lee Burge and Ben Purrington shot wide as the ball was recycled.

The second half was also poor in terms of quality and chances but with three minutes remaining, Cox came to Exeter’s rescue as he finished from close range as the Grecians recycled a corner.

He almost netted a winner as well, but took too long when in on goal and was crowded out by frantic Northampton defenders.