 In the following season they won promotion by the play-offs, with Stansfield starting in the final on 20 May 2006 at the Walkers Stadium in Leicester, a 3–2 extra-time victory over Halifax Town.On 12 June 2006, with his contract expired, Stansfield decided to remain in the Conference, joining Exeter City.He told local radio that his aim was not to achieve promotion or reach a certain tally of goals, but to influence the club's younger players.