A late charge from Scarborough was not enough as Exeter City clung on to grab a 3-2 win.
On a damp night at the McCain Stadium, Exeter's finishing proved to be much the better and that was the deciding factor in a thrilling game.
It was Scarborough who raced away to the better start and after just three minutes they could have taken the lead when Clint Marcelle volleyed against the post.
Five minutes later the scoring was opened as full-back Kevin Nicholson was brought down in the box. Mark Quayle's penalty was saved, but the Boro striker was hauled down when chasing in the rebound. Jimmy Kelly replaced the top scorer and slotted the ball home.
Exeter were looking dangerous on the break though and after some neat play they managed to haul themselves on level terms when Gareth Sheldon spectacularly volleyed home James Coppinger's cross from the right.
Boro's reply to this was swift and decisive. Tony Hackworth collected the ball 35 yards from goal, turned neatly and slid a fine shot into the bottom corner.
This once again spurred the visitors into action, with Sheldon's shot fizzing just over and Sean Canham missing two good opportunities.
The equaliser was always on its way though and it finally arrived when Leslie Afful's cross from the right was controlled by Scarborough defender Karl Rose only for Coppinger to nip in to poke home.
After the half-time team talks it was Exeter who remained on top. Sheldon spooned his shot wide when well-placed, as the Grecians forced Scarborough back into their own half.
This pressure eventually paid off on 54 minutes when Coppinger chased a lost cause, flicked the ball to Sheldon, whose cross was converted by Canham.
Scarborough rallied in the closing stages but Exeter hung on for all three points.