Exeter clash with Carlisle suspended for an hour after fire scare

Exeter City's League Two clash with Carlisle United was suspended for just over an hour on Saturday afternoon after a fire scare in the main grandstand at St James Park.

The home side were already 1-0 up courtesy of Jayden Stockley's early goal when the game was paused 10 minutes in, with fans in the Stagecoach Stand evacuated onto the pitch.

Exeter's official Twitter account initially reported the game had been stopped for a fire drill, but then added that smoke had been seen coming from the back of the stand.

They later confirmed the scare had been caused by a 'smoke grenade' set off behind the stand, actions condemned by the Football League.

Football League chief executive Shaun Harvey said: "Both clubs, the matchday security staff, the emergency services and the overwhelming majority of supporters should be commended for their response to today's events.

"Unfortunately the actions of one individual have caused significant disruption and put fellow fans at risk of injury. The taking of smoke grenades or flares to football matches is irresponsible and absolutely mindless. It is something that has to stop."

Exeter boss Paul Tisdale waited with fans on the pitch as stewards and security staff investigated the problem, before fire services arrived and once they were satisfied of the stand's safety, eventually allowed the crowd to return to their seats just before 4pm.

The game could not continue immediately because of a problem with the floodlights, but once that was resolved, the players returned to warm up and continue the game, which finished in a 2-2 draw thanks to a late equaliser from Carlisle's Hallam Hope.

A City statement read: "At 3:09pm today, play was halted at St James Park during Exeter City vs Carlisle United due to a smoke grenade being deployed behind the old Stagecoach Stand. Security were quick to respond to the emergency, moving spectators onto the pitch.

"Fire stewards and subsequently the fire brigade checked all areas and confirmed that the grandstand was safe. Police also moved swiftly in arresting the offender, who is now in custody.

"Play resumed approximately an hour later. The club expresses its thanks for the professionalism of the stewards, fire brigade and police."