Stevenage fell to a 3-1 defeat as promotion chasing Exeter picked up their first win since December 12.

Archie Collins and Matt Jay gave the Grecians a 2-0 lead and, despite Elliott List pulling a goal back for the visitors, Ryan Bowman ensured the victory with a late third at St James's Park on Saturday.

Boro started well with Danny Newton having a shot saved by Grecians keeper Jonny Maxted.

However Exeter took the lead after 10 minutes when Collins drove from midfield before firing in the underside of the crossbar from 20 yards.

In a game of few chances, substitute Matty Stevens worked an opening but was foiled by Maxted.

Exeter responded with 11 minutes remaining when Jay made it 2-0 with an excellent half-volley from 20 yards for his 12th goal of the season.

Boro pulled a goal back 120 seconds later through List from close range after Exeter failed to clear a corner.

Boro's hopes of an unlikely point were dashed when Bowman made it 3-1 with five minutes remaining when Nicky Law picked him out with a brilliant reverse pass that he lifted over the Jamie Cummings and into the net.

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Revell's side remain in 22nd spot, out of the relegation places on goal difference from Grimsby.

They host Colchester United at the Lamex on Tuesday.