Caldwell’s experimental back six frustrated the shotshy Hatters at a packed St James Park before winger Demetri Mitchell struck an 83rd-minute winner to earn Exeter a first win over topflight opposition since 1981.
“It’s big, really big,” said Caldwell, whose side lay 27 places below Luton at kick-off. “To have a Premier League side come here. To play in this round for the first time in 30-odd years. To then play the way we did, to show the level of commitment and desire and hunger that you need to win a football match - I thought the players were absolutely outstanding.”
Mitchell was sent off just five minutes after netting the winner for a second yellow but Exeter clung on to earn a home tie against Championship side Middlesbrough.
Boro’s passage to round four was secured courtesy of a 2-0 win at League Two Bradford, Emmanuel Latte Lath and Morgan Rogers netting either side of half-time.
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