Harper, who was called up to the Harambee Stars squad in October 2023, scored and assisted as Exeter qualified for the FA Cup fouth round for the first time in 44 years.
Kenyan left wingback Vincent Harper delivered a scintillating performance as Exeter City secured a historic 3-1 victory over Championship side Oxford United.
Harper, who received a Harambee Stars call-up in October 2023 for their friendly against Russia, scored and assisted to help the Grecians advance to the FA Cup fourth round for the first time in 44 years, sparking jubilant celebrations at St James Park.
The match began on a rocky note for Exeter, as Oxford opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Matt Phillips capitalized on a swift counterattack led by Siriki Dembélé and Dane Scarlett, tapping in from close range to give the visitors an early lead.
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Undeterred, Exeter responded with grit and determination. Just eight minutes later, Vincent Harper burst down the left flank and delivered a pinpoint cross to the back post. Demetri Mitchell met the delivery with a stunning volley, leveling the score at 1-1 and injecting confidence into the Grecians.
The momentum stayed with Exeter, and six minutes before halftime, they struck again. Caleb Watts advanced into Oxford’s penalty area and sent in a low cross. While Harper looked poised to shoot, the ball deflected into Mitchell’s path, and the forward made no mistake, firing home his second goal of the night to give Exeter a 2-1 lead.
Oxford began the second half strongly, pressing for an equalizer, but Exeter held firm. Goalkeeper Joe Whitworth made crucial saves to deny Siriki Dembélé and Dane Scarlett, ensuring the Grecians maintained their advantage.
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Midway through the second half, Vincent Harper delivered the decisive blow. Receiving a pass from Watts, the dynamic wingback cut inside from the left before unleashing a low, driven shot that nestled into the bottom corner. Harper’s goal extended Exeter’s lead to 3-1, effectively sealing the match.
The game took a dramatic turn in the final stages when Oxford’s Tyler Goodrham was shown a straight red card for an elbow on Jake Richards. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Oxford continued to push forward but found no way past Exeter’s resolute defense.
Exeter nearly added a fourth goal through substitute Millenic Alli, whose flick and shot were expertly saved by Oxford’s goalkeeper. The final whistle marked a historic moment for the Grecians, as they secured their place in the FA Cup fourth round for the first time since 1981.
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