Jermain Defoe’s hat-trick spared Sunderland’s blushes as they defeated Exeter 6-3 in a thrilling Capital One Cup clash.
The Black Cats fielded a strong line-up but conceded three times in the first half as their defence was frequently exposed again, before they ultimately rallied to break the visitors’ spirit in the second period.
The hosts were 2-0 up through Jack Rodwell and Defoe before Emmanuel Oyeleke and David Wheeler brought the Grecians back into the match.
– #360debate: Would Chelsea move be good for Stones?
– GALLERY: Eight players to snub United for Chelsea
Defoe’s second was cancelled out by Tom McCready prior to half-time, yet Rodwell headed in another, Duncan Watmore tapped in to celebrate his England Under-21 call-up and Defoe swept home a third late on.
Watford were a top-flight casualty, though, as they slipped to a 1-0 loss at Championship Preston thanks to Marnick Vermijl’s first goal for North End.
Teenage striker Joe Dodoo also netted a treble while Andrej Kramaric was on target as Leicester progressed via a 4-1 win at Bury, Danny Mayor with their sole effort.