Jevani Brown scores a hat-trick as Exeter claim victory at Forest Green

Former Forest Green striker Jevani Brown scored a hat-trick as Exeter emphatically earned Derby tag rights with a 4-0 win.

Brown struck twice from the penalty spot as Matt Taylor’s side kept in touch with the Sky Bet League One play-off spots.

Rovers hit the self-destruct button after six minutes – Blackpool loanee Oliver Casey wasted possession for Brown to find Sam Nombe, who finished behind Luke McGee.

Exeter were awarded an accidental penalty in the 25th minute when Ben Stevenson’s high boot appeared to catch Rekeem Harper, requiring Brown to convert the penalty.

Exeter made the three in the 41st minute. Fulham loanee Jay Stansfield pitted for Brown to take his second.

After the break, McGee’s save from a Pierce Sweeney volley in the 63rd minute prevented Exeter from scoring a fourth.

Rovers were entitled to a penalty with 20 minutes to go when Dom Bernard was shoved into the box by Jack Sparkes.

At the other end, however, Bernard Sparkes converted for a penalty, allowing Brown to score his second penalty goal and third goal after 83 minutes.