What the Exeter boss said about his side's heartbreaking loss to Portsmouth

The Grecians were left heartbroken at the final whistle following their 3-2 EFL Trophy semi-final loss at Fratton Park.

The League Two visitors led on two occasions during the enthralling finish that whipped up five goals inside the closing stages.

Jake Taylor’s 79th-minute strike sparked wild celebration among the Exeter faithful in the Milton End, but it was cancelled out by Marcus Harness’ finish seven minutes later.

Christian Burgess’ own goal with a minute of normal time again put the Devon side on the cusp of an appearance at the national stadium.

The drama was nowhere near finished, however. Cameron McGeehan again restored parity in stoppage-time before John Marquis’ header at the death ensured Pompey will be heading back to Wembley to defend their crown.

Taylor made 10 changes from their win at Macclesfield on Saturday, while Kenny Jackett’s named a full-strength line-up.

And he heaped praise on how his fledgling talents performed despite the result

The Grecians boss told Devon Live: ‘We have used this competition for the youngsters to give them an opportunity and for the players who need the minutes.

‘We came so close to Wembley but that sense of pride in the changing room, we have now have to turn it into a fuel to motivate us onto some success this season.

‘In the general scheme of things, I am so pleased with that group of players. We had a bit about us in the second half but ultimately they’ve scored three goals and that’s what has cost us.

‘There was waves and waves of pressure but we still had a threat about us and got the two goals, but we just couldn’t quite hold on, and that was due to a bit of fatigue and know-how and good play from Portsmouth.

‘It would have been nice to have won the game but the players never let this club down and have done us proud. Not just the young players, they’ll get the headlines, but the whole group of players.

‘We have got a fantastic group and I’m proud to be manager of that group of players and if they keep putting in performances like tonight, they’ll have a chance.’