STEVE Perryman hailed Exeter City's character after they drew 1-1 with Millwall, thanks to a late goal at a rainswept St James's Park last night.

The Grecians looked on course for only their second home defeat in the league this season when David Martin converted a first-half penalty.

But their never-say-die attitude shone through as they piled on the pressure in the closing stages and were rewarded with a lucky goal — Adam Stansfield's cross sailing over keeper David Forde and going in off the far post.

"We were actually incredibly patient and it looked like there was a belief that we were going to get something out of the game," said City's director of football Perryman.

"We never panicked and we tried to play football in difficult circumstances. That is a very good point against a very good side. It carries on the confidence the team has at the moment. We have played better than this but sometimes it takes blood and guts and I think we showed that tonight.

"Once again it shows the character we have in the side. We have only lost one game at home in the league this season and the players believe in themselves."

The one downside at last night's game was the dismissal of defender Steve Tully, who was sent off after picking up two yellow cards.The right-back will now miss Saturday's second round FA Cup tie at MK Dons.

Meanwhile, Perryman admitted that defender Danny Seaborne had turned down a new contract. The City youth product, who has been the subject of two cash offers from Norwich City, is out of contract at the end of the season.

"He was offered one and he has turned it down," said Perryman. "He is a good young player and we have offered what we think is right for his stature."

Watch interviews with Adam Stansfield and Paul Tisdale at www.kellowsbootlaces.co.uk