Results from Exeter Chiefs http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk   CARDIFF BLUES   23 EXETER CHIEFS  23 By Mark Stevens at the Cardiff City Stadium Exeter Chiefs paid the penalty - quite literally - for failing to close out their latest LV= Cup encounter with Cardiff Blues. With the game eight minutes into added on time, Cardiff replacement Joseph Griffin landed a dramatic, last-gasp penalty to ensure the Welshmen a share of the spoils. However, the Chiefs, who had led 23-12 at the break, had only themselves to blame in the end as a series of wrong decisions and some ill discipline came back to bite them in the closing stages. It was a disappointing outcome for the Chiefs and their head coach Rob Baxter, who knows he has certain issues to address ahead of this Saturday's Aviva Premiership clash at home to Leeds Carnegie. Baxter will, however, be encouraged by certain aspects of his side's showing, particularly in the first half when his side ran in tries from Simon Alcott and Nic Sestaret. Fly-half Ryan Davies kicked the remainder of Exeter's points as he enjoyed his own personal kicking duel with opposite number Gareth Davies, who landed five penalties for the home side. Buoyed by back to back victories over Saracens and London Wasps in the past two weeks, the Chiefs headed into the Principality looking to gain revenge for the pre-season defeat they suffered at the hands of the Blues back in August. With coach Baxter making 13 changes in personnel, plus a further positional switch to the side which saw off Wasps in the Cup, the Chiefs did not get off to the best of starts as they fell behind after just two minutes. Welsh referee David Jones penalised the Exeter back-row for straying offside just outside their 22 and up stepped fly-half Davies to stroke over an early blow. Davis countered with an immediate response for the Chiefs only for Davies to restore the Welshmen's lead with a second effort on nine minutes after the Exeter front-row were picked out for dropping a scrum. Although it was a bright start for the Blues, the Chiefs slowly began to find their feet and display some of the moves which had been evident in recent displays. Punching their way into enemy territory, the Premiership outfit caught Cardiff napping on 16 minutes when hooker Alcott lobbed in a short line-out, got the ball back, before they galloping 40 metres down the right flank for the opening try of the game, which Davis superbly converted from the touchline. Davis - the star of the show against Saracens a fortnight ago - extended Exeter's lead with a second penalty five minutes later, but his impeccable record was blighted when another lengthy kick drifted just wide of the right post. At the other end, Davies was again on song with his right boot as he narrowed the gap to four points, but the score only appeared to ignite the Chiefs who added a second touchdown on the half-hour mark. Excellent approach work from the Exeter pack saw them drive deep into the heart of the Cardiff rearguard, before Haydn Thomas whipped the ball out to half-back partner Davis, whose cross-field kick fell invitingly into the path of winger Sestaret. In what has already been a memorable week for the Frenchman - he celebrated becoming a dad for the first time on Tuesday - he latched onto the ball before dotting down in the corner for a second converted score. As the half drew towards a close, Davies traded penalties with Davis. However, the biggest concern for Baxter was the loss of try-scorer Alcott, who appeared to leave the field in some pain following a hefty collision in midfield. HALF TIME   CARDIFF BLUES 12 EXETER CHIEFS 23 With their ears still ringing from a half-time blast from head coach Dai Young, Cardiff emerged for the second period a much improved side. Quickly they set about trying to haul themselves back into the contest with a series of early raids on the Exeter line. The pressure was clearly mounting on the visitors and finally it told when on 46 minutes, Cardiff winger Dan Fish was on the end of a well crafted backs move to race over in the right-hand corner. Davies, however, could not land the difficult conversion attempt from wide out. The momentum was clearly with the Blues, who having survived a Davis penalty chance on 51 minutes, continued to pile forward at every opportunity. The Chiefs - to their credit - were miserly in defence and it was not until the 78th minute that the Blues were able to add to their tally. Again Davies was on hand to fire over a straight-forward penalty from in front of the posts to leave just three points in it. Cardiff were far from finished and in a storming conclusion they threw everything at their English rivals. Again, though, Baxter's boys stuck to their game manfully, winning a crucial penalty deep into injury time to help settle the nerves somewhat. Driving the ball forward from the resultant penalty, the Chiefs used the old fashion 'pick and go'to try and work an opening for Davis. Unfortunately, the former Bath star's long-range effort was well wide and the game continued into injury time. The Blues certainly made the most of the let-off to strike a decisive late blow. Pushing forward through their pack, referee Jones deemed a tackle from Chiefs replacement Dave Gannon to be high and that was enough to gift the hosts their golden opportunity. With Davies watching from the sidelines, it was left to his deputy Griffin to step forward and strike a dag into the hearts of the Chiefs with the very last kick of the game. Cardiff Blues: D Fish; R Mustoe (O Williams 63), G Evans, D Hewitt (capt), T James; G Davies (J Griffin 80), L Williams (T Slater h/t); T Davies (I George 78), G Williams (K Dacey 44), S Andrews (S Hobbs 66); B Griffiths (M Cook 71), J Down; L Hamilton (T Young 63), J Navidi, T Brown. Try - Fish; Penalties - Davies (5), Griffin Chiefs: L Arscott (M Jess 60); N Sestaret, P Dollman, J Shoemark, M Foster; R Davis, H Thomas; B Sturgess, S Alcott (C Whitehead 40), H Tui (I Elosu 72); T Hayes (capt, D Gannon 72), J Hanks; T Johnson, A Miller, R Baxter. Replacements (not used); B Moon, D Ewers, G Cowley, I Mieres. Tries - Alcott, Sestaret; Conversions - Davis (2); Penalties - Davis (3) Referee: D Jones (WRFU) Attendance: 7,018 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2861 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2861 Mon, 15 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT EXETER CHIEFS  29 LONDON WASPS  6 By Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Exeter Chiefs newcomer Ignacio Mieres produced a virtuoso display on his home debut to ensure his new club kicked off their LV= Cup campaign in fine fettle against visiting London Wasps. The Argentine fly-half kicked over 19 points to go alongside tries from Fijian flyer Sireli Naqelevuki and winger Matt Jess. All the visitors could muster in response was two penalties from young centre Elliot Daly as they failed to cope with the power, pace and precision of the Premiership’s newest additions. After the dream display at Saracens last week, head coach Rob Baxter opted for a completely new starting XV for this opening Cup encounter - and that meant first starts of the season for Mieres, Garrick Cowley, Chris Whitehead, Ignacio Elosu, Peter Kimlin and Andy Miller. On the bench there was also an immediate inclusion for New Zealander Jason Shoemark, who only arrived at Sandy Park at the beginning of the week having concluded his playing commitments with Hawke’s Bay in the ITM Cup. Meanwhile, Wasps – who were making their first-ever visit to Sandy Park – arrived in Devon with a star-studded line-up, which included international stars such as Serge Betsen, Andy Powell, David Lemi , Tom Varndell and Tom Rees. The Chiefs – as has been the case so often this season – were quickly into their stride and they opened their account for the day inside seven minutes when Mieres stroked over a wonderful 40 metre penalty after the visitors were penalised for infringing at a ruck. Almost immediately, though, Wasps hit back as debutant Elliot Daly atoned for an earlier penalty miss by team-mate Mark Van Gisbergen to restore parity with a successful effort on 14 minutes.  Mieres had a chance to restore Exeter’s lead two minutes later, but his effort from wide on the left flank floated wide of the sticks as did a rather ambitious drop-goal effort from the former Stade Francais star. Not to be denied, however, the Chiefs continued to push forward and from one well constructed driving maul, skipper Cowley took charge before unleashing Naqelevuki (pictured left) at pace. With 20 metres still to go to the whitewash, the Fijian powerhouse bulldozed his way past three tacklers before touching down for the opening try, which Mieres duly converted. Ignited by the score the home side continued to press forward as first Nic Sestaret caused problems with a darting break; then Naqelevuki came within inches of adding a second score. Although the mounting pressure failed to bring any further points, Wasps were briefly reduced to 14 men when flanker Will Matthews was dispatched to the sin-bin by Scottish referee Neil Paterson for deliberately pulling down another effective Exeter maul. Matthews returned with the scoreline untouched, but in the very last play of the half Wasps again fell foul of Paterson, who this time brandished yellow to lock Marty Veale for punching as he attempted to clear a ruck. HALF TIME  EXETER CHIEFS  10 LONDON WASPS 3 On the resumption the Chiefs this time man their man advantage pay as they claimed their second try on 43 minutes. With Wasps pressing hard in attack, a loose pass was plucked out of the air by winger Paul McKenzie, who in turn combined with Aussie international Kimlin to set up another attacking platform for the hosts. As the Chiefs drove forward, the ball was spun back to Mieres, who spotted a yawning gap in behind the Wasps rearguard.  With Jess leading the cavalry charge for the home side, Wasps had just prop Zak Taulafo back in defence. There was only going to be one winner. Jess (pictured below) duly latched onto the loose ball, hacking the ball ahead before collecting and running in over the line for Mieres to convert once more. Exeter’s new number ten continued to dazzle on his home debut as he landed another telling touchline penalty, whilst at the other end Daly countered with an effort of his own on 53 minutes to make it 20-6. Two more sublime penalties from Mieres helped the Devon club to edge further in front as the game entered the final quarter. Even then the home side were far from finished as Shoemark wasted little time in showcasing his talents to the Devon public. The former Highlanders ace may have only been on the field for a short period, but in the time he was involved in the action he demonstrated just why head coach Rob Baxter was so keen to bring his services to the Westcountry. In the end, Wasps – who had Welsh international Andy Powell sin-binned late on – struggled to contain the rampaging Chiefs, all of whom will have staked their claims for a starting spot against Cardiff Blues this coming Friday. It was, fittingly, Mieres who had the final word as he landed a fifth penalty with virtually the last kick of the game. Chiefs: J Matavesi (D Locke 71); P McKenzie (J Shoemark 61), N Sestaret, S Naqelevuki, M Jess; I Mieres, G Cowley (capt, J Poluleuligaga h/t); B Moon (R Murphy 79), C Whitehead (J Vickers 35-39), I Elosu (J Vickers 69); P Kimlin, D Gannon (C Bentley 64); C Slade (H Stupple 72), A Miller, D Ewers. Replacement (not used):  L Fairbrother. Tries – Naqelevuki, Jess; Conversions – Mieres (2); Penalties – Mieres (5) Wasps: J Wallace; T Varndell, E Daly, S Kefu (D Waldouck 64), D Lemi; M Van Gisbergen (S Jewell 78), N Berry (J Simpson 61); Z Taulufo (T Payne 50), R Webber (capt, T Lindsay 78), B Broster (J Hobson 50); M Veale, J Cannon; W Matthews (J Burton 69), S Betsen (T Rees 61), A Powell. Penalties – Daly (2) Yellow Cards: Matthews, Veale Referee: N Paterson (SRFU) Touch Judges: A Pearce & R Baileff. 4th Official: R Debney Attendance: 7,799 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2858 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2858 Sat, 06 Nov 2010 00:00:00 GMT Pictures: Getty ImagesSARACENS 9  EXETER CHIEFS 23 By Mark Stevens at Vicarage Road That, as they say, is just what the Doctor ordered. Sadly for Saracens coach Brendan Venter - nicknamed the 'Doctor' himself - the South African was left seeking a rescue remedy as Exeter Chiefs recorded their first-ever away victory in the Aviva Premiership with a 23-9 success at Vicarage Road. Tries from Brett Sturgess and Ryan Davis, who also kicked the remainder of his side's points, sealed a memorable victory for the league newcomers, who wasted little time in bouncing back from last weekend's narrow home defeat to league leaders London Irish. Exeter came into this latest tussle having made just one enforced change to the side that started against the Exiles. That came at fly-half where the injured Gareth Steenson, the club's leading points-scorer this term, was replaced by Davis. It meant a first-ever league start for the former Bath man, whose only other outing from the first whistle came in the recent Amlin Challenge Cup clash against Montpellier. Saracens, who this week completed the signing of Wales and British Lions star Gavin Henson, came into the game having won their last five Premiership fixtures, including the week previous at Newcastle Falcons. In a tight opening to the game where both sides were happy to test each other out in all facets of the game, it was the home side who were afforded the first chance of the contest on six minutes. Winning a penalty wide on the left after the Chiefs had strayed offside, fly-half Alex Goode stroked his touchline effort wide of the left post. At the other end, the Chiefs replied with a sustained spell of pressure which saw them test the Sarries rearguard with a series of attacking waves. However, as they closed in for the kill, a spilt ball from winger Mark Foster lost the opportunity on this occasion. The Chiefs, though, were clearly enjoying themselves and they finally broke the deadlock on 20 minutes when Davis was able to land a 35 metre penalty after home prop Carlos Nieto was pinged at scrum time by referee Tim Wigglesworth. The lead lasted just six minutes as Goode atoned for his earlier miss when he plundered a much-improved penalty, given after Exeter prop Chris Budgen was deemed to have taken out Jacques Burger without the ball. It was only a mere setback for the Chiefs, who roared back into life to sting Venter's side on the stroke of half-time. Another attacking phase helped to release winger Andrew Higgins, whose pumping legs took at least two tacklers to halt him. He was, however, still able to offload to the onrushing Luke Arscott, who in turn combined with skipper Tom Hayes to send Davis scampering under the sticks for a try, which he was also able to convert for a seven-point lead at the turn. HALF TIME  SARACENS 3  EXETER CHIEFS 10 Saracens coach Venter was clearly unimpressed with his side's first half display and sought an immediate response on the resumption by introducing David Strettle and Brad Barritt for the ineffective Noah Cato and Nils Mordt during the half-time respite. Again the Chiefs were quickly into their stride as a clever attacking move helped to release Foster and Hayes down the left flank and then Richard Baxter, who charged through the middle of the home defence before being engulfed in a sea of home defenders. But having survived the early Exeter onslaught, Saracens reduced the deficit on 47 minutes when Goode landed his second penalty of the game after James Scaysbrook was adjudged to have gone offside at a ruck. Exeter's response was again immediate as they restored their seven-point cushion courtesy of a another Davis kick, given after Foster was crudely taken out by Ethienne Reynecke as he looked to chase a hanging kick from Haydn Thomas. Sarries countered once more with another Goode penalty and they had the hammer down for a considerable period as they looked to punch their way through the Exeter line. The Chiefs - to a man - were phenomenal in defence and put in countless tackles to thwart the home push. In the end, Saracens simply ran out of ideas and it was the Chiefs who finished the stronger. Turnover work just shy of halfway saw Davis latch onto a loose ball and he in turn fed Sturgess, who galloped along the left touchline before holding off the attentions to score a try in the left-hand corner. Davis administered a sublime touchline conversion, before wrapping up victory with another penalty just two minuts from time. As the Chiefs tribe in the stands burst into the now famous 'Tomahawk Chop' chant, so the players in turn punched the air in delight.Days, it has to be said, don't get any better than this. Saracens: C Wyles; N Cato (D Strettle h/t), K Ratuvou, N Mordt (B Barritt h/t, M Parr 69), M Tagicakibau; A Goode, N de Kock (R Wigglesworth 51); D Carstens (R Skuse 74), E Reynecke (J George 57), C Nieto; S Borthwick (capt), M Botha (H Smith 57); K Brown (J Melck 51), J Burger, E Joubert. Penalties - Goode (2) Exeter Chiefs: L Arscott; A Higgins, P Dollman, B Rennie (S Naqelevuki 51), M Foster; R Davis, H Thomas; B Sturgess, N Clark (S Alcott 54), C Budgen (H Tui 70); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (P Kimlin 78); T Johnson, J Scaysbrook, R Baxter. Replacements (not used): B Moon, C Slade, J Poluleuligaga, J Matavesi. Tries - Davis, Sturgess; Conversions - Davis (2); Penalties - Davis (3) Referee: T Wigglesworth (RFU) Attendance: 6,512 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2856 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2856 Sun, 31 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST EXETER CHIEFS  9LONDON IRISH 12By Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Ryan Lamb struck two late blows to ensure London Irish remain top of the Aviva Premiership following a hard fought victory over Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park. In front of a record-breaking crowd of 10,103 - Toby Booth's Exiles were made to fight all the way by their Devon hosts who fought valiantly to preserve their unbeaten home record in league battle. Sadly, the Chiefs were unable to build on their previous home wins against Gloucester and Newcastle Falcons - and the losing bonus point will be only a crumb of comfort for head coach Rob Baxter, who admitted at the final whistle his side could easily have added the scalp of Irish to their ranks. Having stuck with an unchanged starting line-up from that which saw off French outfit Bourgoin in the Amlin Challenge Cup the week previous, the Chiefs wasted little time in settling into their stride as they controlled the early exchanges. Despite hooker Neil Clark departing with a blood injury in only the third minute, a clever line-out move involving his replacement Chris Whitehead, flanker James Scaysbrook and scrum-half Haydn Thomas, saw the latter make a superb dart into enemy territory before the visitors were penalised by referee Wayne Barnes. It gifted Exeter the first chance of points, but the normally deadly Gareth Steenson screwed his penalty chance wide of the left post and the visitors were momentarily let off the hook. At the other end, fly-half Lamb was not off target with his first effort as he shot Irish in front on 16 minutes after the home side were adjudged to have strayed offside. Irishman Steenson atoned for his earlier miss when he levelled the scores with a much improved effort on 21 minutes - before then adding a second effort four minutes before the interval as the Chiefs piled on the pressure. Irish, though, were far from finished and in the very final play of the half, they pushed hard into the Exeter 22. Although Baxter's side repelled the initial wave of attacks, when the ball shot out of one particular ruck, referee Barnes immediately blew his whistle with home flanker Tom Johnson deemed the guilty cuplrit. Former Gloucester ace Lamb duly dispatched the testing touchline kick to restore parity with the very last action of the opening half. HALF TIME  EXETER CHIEFS 6 LONDON IRISH 6 It was attritional, yet absorbing action and the two sides wasted little time in getting stuck into each other on the resumption. However, England international Delon Armitage - who himself has strong family links to Devon - may have over stepped the mark slightly when he pole-axed Andrew Higgins with a crude and high hit on the home winger. Although he pleaded his immediate innocence, Barnes dispatched the talented full-back for a ten-minute spell in the cooler. But despite having the additional man, the Chiefs were unable to pick their way through what was proving a rock solid Irish rearguard. With Armitage back in harness, the game continued to swing from end to end before the Chiefs were then dealt an untimely blow just past the hour mark when a rampaging run from Sailosi Tagicakibau down the right flank saw the Exeter points-machine feel the full force of the Irish winger. Steenson's initially attempted to rise to his feet, but the pain to his left knee appeared too much and after a spell of treatment he was eventually forced from the field. It meant an introduction into the fray for Ryan Davis who, with his second touch of the game, punted his side back in front with a sublime drop-goal after the Chiefs had worked their way into range from a line-out. Up 9-6 with less than a quarter of the game to go, it proved the trigger for Irish to up their tempo and slowly claw their way back into the contest. Playing patient, yet effective rugby, the pressure began to mount on the Chiefs who, it has to be said, were guilty of giving away a few unnecessary penalties, one of which Lamb plundered on 73 minutes to tie the score yet again. Then, with only minutes remaining, Lamb decisively struck again, when hooker Whitehead was deemed to have come in at the side of a ruck, making it four out of four for the visiting number 10. Despite their best efforts to get territory and their hands on the ball in the final moments, Irish cleverly ran down the clock, much to the relief of head coach Booth Exeter: L Arscott, A Higgins, P Dollman, B Rennie (S Naqelevuki 66), M Foster, G Steenson (R Davis 61), H Thomas, B Sturgess, N Clark (C Whitehead 4-10, 74), C Budgen (H Tui 58), T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (P Kimlin 70), T Johnson, J Scaysbrook, R Baxter (C Slade 72). Replacements not used: B Moon, G Cowley. Penalties - Steenson (2); Drop-Goal - Davis Irish: D Armitage, T Ojo, S Mapusua, D Bowden, S Tagicakibau, R Lamb, P Hodgson, C Dermody (capt), D Paice (J Buckland 55), A Corbisiero (F Rautenbach 55), N Kennedy, B Casey (M Garvey 62), K Roche, C Hala’ufia (K Low 76), G Stowers. Replacements not used: D Murphy, J Joseph, C Malone, D Allinson. Penalties - Lamb (4). Yellow Card: D Armitage. Referee: W Barnes (RFU). Attendance: 10,103. http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2854 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2854 Sun, 24 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST Pictures: Phil Mingo/Pinnacle PhotographyBourgoin 19 Exeter Chiefs 34 Mark Stevens at Stade Pierre Rajon Exeter Chiefs’ are up and running in Europe after they produced a stunning display in France to sink hosts Bourgoin at the Stade Pierre Rajon. Tries from Bryan Rennie, Haydn Thomas and Mark Foster, coupled with another hefty haul of points for Gareth Steenson, ensured a first-ever competitive win for the Aviva Premiership club on foreign soil. In a display head coach Rob Baxter described afterwards as “outstanding” – the Chiefs moved themselves into second spot in Pool Three of this season’s Amlin Challenge Cup behind leaders Montpellier. Having lost to Montpellier the week previous, coach Baxter opted for a much changed line-up in this the club’s first-ever European away dayl. Of the 15 who started at Sandy Park last Saturday, just three [Chris Budgen, Phil Dollman and Andrew Higgins] survived the mass cull. With many of Baxter’s big guns back in harness, the Chiefs wasted little time in taking the game to their French hosts, who currently sit second to bottom in the Top 14. A ferocious first driving maul from the visitors set the tone, before two penalties inside the opening six minutes from fly-half Gareth Steenson gave the Devon club a dream start. Bourgoin, though, countered immediately as a series of pick-and-go drives from the home pack saw them create the space for prop Stephane Bougherara to bulldoze his way over the whitewash on nine minutes. However, it was a mere blip for the Chiefs, who continued to look the more dominant side.  A third penalty from Steenson on 11 minutes extended their lead before an excellent counter-attack from the Englishmen saw Steenson and Phil Dollman link nicely before the latter spun the ball to midfield partner Rennie, who raced in from halfway for Exeter’s opening try, which Steenson duly converted. Everywhere, it appeared, the Chiefs were ruling the roost.  The contact area, the set-piece and in defence every man was on top of their game. And things got even better just before the break as they added a second try through Thomas. Quick-thinking from the lively scrum-half saw him latch onto a loose ball, which had squirted out the side of a scrum, before he raced unopposed down the right flank to score. Steenson, not surprisingly, banged over the touchline before adding a fourth penalty to put the visitors firmly in command at the interval. HALF TIME BOURGOIN  5  EXETER CHIEFS 26 Bourgoin, who added two new faces at the break, needed a swift response on the resumption and it duly arrived just two minutes into the half as a break from Fijian powerhouse Nemani Nadolo saw him brush aside three tacklers before feeding the ball inside for fellow wing Brando Vaaulu to dive over and score. Centre Matias Viazzo, who had taken over the kicking duties from the injured Sebastien Laloo, punted over the conversion to lift the home support. However, any hopes of a home revival were quickly extinguished by the Chiefs, who responded with yet another penalty from Steenson’s right boot and then a third try from winger Foster, who was able to cross for his fourth score of the season following a pass from Thomas. Steenson’s conversion attempt cannoned back off the right post for his only miss of the contest, but by then the visitors were already well on course for a famous victory. Yellow cards for Nadolo and Richard Baxter helped bring a bit of added fire to the game, but as replacements aplenty littered the last quarter, it was left to the home side to wrap up proceedings with a late try. With just a minute remaining and Bourgoin pushing hard in attack, the Frenchmen finally made their pressure pay when a slick handling move saw Jeremy Gondrand and Viazzo combine to send Nadolo crashing over in the left corner. Viazzo’s impressive kick from the sidelines completed the night’s scoring. For the Chiefs, it’s back to Exeter on Saturday after which the hard work begins on Monday ahead of next week’s visit of Premiership leaders London Irish. Bourgoin: M Moinot; B Vaaulu, M Viazzo, D Janin (S Tian 59), N Nadolo; S Laloo (W Van Zyl 23), M Forest (capt, J Gondrand 59); E Iapteff (V Pelo h/t), T Kopelani (J Janaudy 63), S Bougherara (S Charlet 47); T Genevois, C Levast; T Cowley (W Jooste h/t), A Tulou (A Louchard 56), Y Labrit. Tries – Bougherara, Vaaulu; Conversion – Viazzo  Yellow Card: Nadolo Chiefs: L Arscott; A Higgins, P Dollman (M Jess 78), B Rennie (N Sestaret 62), M Foster, G Steenson, H Thomas (G Cowley 73); B Sturgess, N Clark (C Whitehead 63), C Budgen (I Elosu 73); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks; T Johnson, J Scaysbrook (C Slade 65), R Baxter (D Gannon 71). Replacement (not used): R Murphy. Tries – Rennie, Thomas, Foster; Conversions – Steenson (2); Penalties – Steenson (5) Yellow Card: Baxter Referee: J Jones (WRFU) http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2852 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2852 Sat, 16 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST Picture: Phil Mingo/Pinnacle PhotographyExeter Chiefs 13 Montpellier 20 Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Exeter's European debut did not quite live up to expectations as they slipped to a 20-13 defeat against visiting Montpellier in Saturday's Amlin Challenge Cup clash at Sandy Park. Tries from Dimitri Pelo and Seta Tuilevuka, plus a further ten points from fly-half Raphael Lagarde, condemned Rob Baxter's Premiership outfit to their first defeat of the season on home soil. It was certainly a disappointing outfcome for the Devon club, who despite a strong conclusion to the game were ultimately undone by their own mistakes, as well as some streetwise tactics from the Frenchmen. Having stuck with pretty much a tried and tested starting XV for Premiership duty so far this season, it was a much changed Exeter line-up which took to the field for the club’s first-ever European fixture. Indeed, only flanker Chad Slade and full-back Phil Dollman remained from those who ran out against Northampton Saints the week previous. It meant first starts for summer signings Junior Poluleuligaga, Ryan Davis and Andrew Higgins, whilst up front highly-rated young guns such as Ben Moon, Herbie Stupple and Dave Ewers were also given the nod by coach Baxter. Montpellier, meanwhile, arrived in Devon without many of their star names. However, Fabien Galthie's side still had an array of talent within their ranks. It was, however, the Chiefs - resplendent in their new lavender jerseys - who started the brighter, taking the game to the Frenchmen who fell behind after just five minutes. A line-out on the right was taken by Exeter lock Chris Bentley who, aided by his fellow forwards, drove forward along the right flank. But as the Chiefs made the yardage, so their charge was halted as at least two Montpellier forwards dragged it to the deck. Referee Andy McPherson had no hesitation in awarding the penalty, which Davis dispatched with aplomb from the right touchline. Almost immediately, though, the visitors hit back as fly-half Raphael Lagarde restored parity when the Premiership side were penalised for handling on the floor in front of their own posts. Davis had a second penalty chance afforded to him on 10 minutes, but this time his lengthy effort caught in the wind and drifted just wide of the right posts. It was a keenly contested first quarter, but it was the visitors who took the lead for the first time on 16 minutes. A decent break in midfield from Seta Tuilevuka created the platform for the visitors to work the ball to the left where winger Dimitri Pelo collected a pass from Florian Nicot to race in under the sticks. Lagarde obliged with the extras to the touchdown before adding a second penalty on 21 minutes when a moment of madness from Slade saw him take South African flanker Johan Wasserman out in mid-air as he looked to collect a visiting line-out. Davis atoned for his earlier miss when he landed a second penalty and then centre Josh Matavesi came within a whisker of claiming Exeter's opening try when he linked superbly with Dollman only to be forced into touch right at the death by some scramble defence from the visitors. Although Exeter's pressure was begin to mount they were unable to add to their tally as the half drew to a close. Decling a kickable penalty in favour of a line-out, the bold move failed to pay off as a loose throw from Simon Alcott was gobbled up at the tail by Vassili Bost. Then, three minutes before the break, the Chiefs were dealt an untimely blow when Dollman was sent to the sin-bin for a supposed shoulder charge on Benoit Paillaugue as he charged through. It was somewhat harsh on the Welshman, but justice was duly served as Lagarde fired the resultant penalty wide of the mark. HALF TIME  EXETER CHIEFS 6 MONTPELLIER 13 Having survived chances either side of the break, Exeter fell further behind on 43 minutes when a clever chip kick in behind from Lagarde found Wasserman, who despite being halted in midfield, was still able to offload in the tackle to the onrushing Seta Tuilevuka, who cantered his way over from the 22. Lagarde duly converted to make it 20-6 to the visitors. Things hardly improved for Baxter's side, who then lost prop Ben Moon to injury three minutes later. It meant changes for the Chiefs, including the return of Richard Baxter (below) for the first time since the club won promotion into English rugby's top flight. The all-action forward was introduced by his older brother into the fray along with James Hanks and Ruaidhri Murphy as the home side looked to find a way back into the contest. Sadly, the Chiefs continued to struggle to break the French resistance. Far too often they were guilty of choosing the wrong option or turning over ball in crucial areas. However, as Montpellier began to flag in the final quarter of the contest, so the Chiefs began to show more of their undoubted talent. With Johan Wasserman the first of three Montpellier players to be sent to the sin-bin, the Chiefs made the most of their man advantage when Slade was able to pick a lovely line through the heart of the French midfield to score by the posts. Dollman obliged with the additional two points and suddenly the home fires were burning bright once more. As Exeter sensed their opportunity could be on the horizon, so they continued to push forward in search of additional points. Although they pressed hard in the dying minutes, Montpellier continued to thwart their advances, both legally and illegally. In the end referee McPherson got wise to their unruly tactics, brandishing yet more yellow cards to Santiago Fernandez and then Giorgi Chkhaidze in the final five minutes. Although the Chiefs had the numerical advantage, they could not turn their pressure into points and a frustrating afternoon was capped off when Matavesi opted to kick possession away with the final play of the game. Chiefs: P Dollman; A Higgins, P McKenzie (M Foster 66), J Matavesi, M Jess; R Davis (B Rennie 66), J Poluleuligaga (G Cowley 66); B Moon (R Murphy 47), S Alcott, C Budgen (I Elosu 60); C Bentley (J Hanks 55), D Gannon (capt), H Stupple (R Baxter 55), C Slade, D Ewers. Replacement (not used): J Vickers. Try - Slade; Conversion - Dollman Penalties - Davis (2) Yellow Card: Dollman Montpellier: J-M Alcalde (S Fernandez 66); D Pelo, S Tuilevuka (A Pratmarty 65), F Nicot, Q Doumayrou; R Lagarde (A Tomas 60), B Paillaugue (J Vallee 71); G Shvelidze (N Leleimalefaga 55), J Caudullo (F Rofes 51), K Kervarec (M Giudicelli 60); G Uva, M Macurdy (M Giraud 49); V Bost (capt), J Wasserman, G Chkhaidze. Tries - Pelo, Tuilevuka; Conversions - Lagarde (2); Penalties - Lagarde (2) Yellow Cards: Wasserman, Fernandez, Chkhaidze Referee: A McPherson (SRFU) Assistant Referees: I Heard & D Walker (SRFU) 4th Official: A Pearce (RFU) Attendance: 5,437 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2850 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2850 Tue, 12 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST ; Pictures: Steve Bond/Pinnacle Photography Northampton Saints 27Exeter Chiefs  21 Mark Stevens at Franklin’s Gardens Exeter’s search for their first-ever away win in the Aviva Premiership will continue for another week at least, but the Chiefs once again underlined they are not in the top flight just to make up the numbers. A spirited second half display from Rob Baxter’s side against high flying Northampton Saints was duly rewarded with a creditable bonus point, which came courtesy of late tries from prop Chris Budgen and full-back Luke Arscott. Facing their second successive away game, Baxter made three changes to the Exeter line-up which went down 40-13 at Harlequins.  Into the side came Chad Slade, Phil Dollman and new signing Sireli Naqelevuki. Slade and Dollman came in for the injured James Phillips and Nic Sestaret, whilst Fijian flyer Naqelevuki – who was given his first taste of action for his new club on Monday night in the A League clash at Gloucester – was given the nod ahead of Matt Jess. Also included in the visiting ranks were two former Saints players – Brett Sturgess and Budgen – both of whom were given a warm welcome by the home faithful, who were also happy to acknowledge the return of Chiefs’ assistant coach Ali Hepher, who spent eight years with the club during his playing days. The Saints, meanwhile, were also looking to get back to winning ways having come unstuck at Saracens seven days earlier. With England international and skipper Dylan Hartley, there was a start for Brett Sharman, who was joined in the front-row by Euan Murray.Others named by Saints coach Jim Mallinder from the off included the imposing Courtney Lawes, Roger Wilson and Jon Clarke. In a lively opening to the game, Naqelevuki came within a whisker of making an immediate impact as he latched onto a spill from James Downey only to be hauled to the deck just yards from the line. Then on five minutes, the visitors had another opportunity to break the deadlock, but Steenson’s lengthy penalty attempt fell just under the crossbar and into the arms of a waiting Northampton player. Although it was a solid enough start for the ‘Men in White’ they fell behind on 11 minutes when Saints winger Bruce Reihana landed a 30-metre penalty, this after Slade has been penalised for going over the top by referee JP Doyle. The New Zealander then doubled his tally on 15 minutes when the Chiefs were adjudged to have strayed offside in front of their own posts.  Reihana’s successful kick took him past the 1,000-point mark for the Saints. As was the case in Exeter’s previous away clashes at Leicester and Harlequins, the high penalty count in the early stages was again proving costly to Baxter’s side. Not only was it gifting the hosts possession, but also crucial territory which they exploited to the max on 21 minutes. Working a line-out on the left across the field through half-backs Lee Dickson and Shane Geraghty, the ball eventually found its way to winger Paul Diggin who was able to somehow squirm his way over in the corner for a try, which Reihana duly converted to make it 13-0. The Chiefs were clearly in need of a lift and it arrived on 25 minutes when Steenson atoned for his earlier miss by slotting a penalty from 30 metres out after the home side were pulled out for handling on the floor of a ruck. They could, however, have fallen further behind on 28 minutes when referee Doyle penalised the Exeter front-row for standing up a scrum. This time, though, Reihana’s kick was off target as the ball sailed wide of the left post. As half-time approached Reihana and Steenson traded penalties apiece, before the Irishman added another three-pointer with the very last kick of the half to leave just seven points in it at the interval. HALF TIME  NORTHAMPTON SAINTS    16       EXETER CHIEFS   9 The penalty fest continued straight from the restart as the visitors were penalised – for a ninth time in the contest – for this time not rolling away from the tackle area.  It was a tough call on the Chiefs, who could only watch as Reihana administered a fourth penalty of the afternoon. It was to get no better for the Chiefs who, despite appearing to dominate a succession of scrums on the left touchline, fell foul of referee Doyle yet again. Reihana, not surprisingly, was on hand to deliver another telling blow as the Saints pulled further clear at 22-9. Baxter introduced Simon Alcott and Budgen – still a popular figure in these parts – into the fray in a big to ignite the Exeter charge.  Initially the tactic appeared to work as the Chiefs launched a series of attacks on the home line. Although the Chiefs did their best to get over the whitewash, the Saints were in miserly mood as they defended their line in numbers, thwarting their rivals with some bone-crunching hits. And having survived the Exeter threat, they then showed their attacking capabilities. Trundling the ball deep into the Exeter 22, they punted a penalty kick to the corner from which they then drove the resultant line-out over the line. Tongan prop Soane Tonga’uiha was the man credited with the final touchdown as the mass of bodies finally rose to their feet. The deficit may have been hefty, but the Chiefs refused to buckle and in a spirited last throw of the dice from Baxter’s charges, they were duly rewarded when they made the most of a sin-binning to Jon Clarke to score a converted try through prop Budgen. It was to get better, however, for the Chiefs when three minutes from time they claimed a second score through Arscott, who powered his way over in the left-hand corner following another heavy attacking bombardment from the visitors. Although Steenson failed with the testing touchline conversion, the Chiefs had brilliantly hauled themselves back into the contest to claim a vital and much deserved bonus point.Northampton Saints: B Foden; B Reihana, J Clarke, J Downey (J Ansbro 53-60, 65), P Diggin; S Geraghty (S Myler 60), L Dickson (R Powell 75); S Tonga’uiha (R Dreyer 69), B Sharman (A Long 69), E Murray (B Mujati 69); C Lawes (M Sorenson 60), C Day; P Dowson (capt), C Clark, R Wilson (M Easter 66). Tries – Diggin, Tonga’uiha; Conversion – Reihana; Penalties – Reihana (5) Yellow Card: Clarke Chiefs: L Arscott; S Naqelevuki, P Dollman (R Davis 75), B Rennie (M Jess 66), M Foster; G Steenson, H Thomas (J Poluleuligaga 23); B Sturgess, N Clark (S Alcott 53), H Tui (C Budgen 53-60); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (C Bentley 75); C Slade, J Scaysbrook, T Johnson. Replacements (not used): B Moon, D Gannon. Tries – Budgen, Arscott; Conversion – Steenson; Penalties – Steenson (3) Referee: J P Doyle Assistant Referees: R Davies & R Baileff Attendance: 13,296   http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2847 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2847 Sat, 02 Oct 2010 00:00:00 BST   Pictures: Christopher Lee/Getty ImagesHarlequins 40 Exeter Chiefs 13 Mark Stevens at the Twickenham Stoop It wasn’t quite the same drubbing as they received on their last visit to the Twickenham Stoop, but Exeter Chiefs again found themselves on the end of a heavy points haul from Harlequins. Having not won in their first three Aviva Premiership games of the new season, Harlequins – who won 70-5 the last time the two sides met in the capital – rediscovered their magic with a powerful display against Rob Baxter’s league newcomers. Inspired by New Zealander Nick Evans, who collected 20 points, the ‘City Slickers’ ran in four tries to collect all five points, whilst all the Chiefs could muster in reply was a converted try for winger Mark Foster, plus two first half penalties from leading points-scorer Gareth Steenson. Again, just like it was against Leicester Tigers a fortnight ago at Welford Road, another heavy penalty count [it totalled 22-6] against the Chiefs was to prove crucial in their eventual downfall. Ahead of kick-off, however, and buoyed by their second home win over Newcastle Falcons the week previous, Baxter was forced to change his winning formula for the first time this season. With centre Phil Dollman sidelined with a shoulder injury, Matt Jess was handed his first Premiership start on the right wing with Frenchman Nic Sestaret moving inside to partner Bryan Rennie. Harlequins, unlike their visitors, were still searching for their first win of the campaign. However, Conor O’Shea’s side were clearly keen to address that statistic and quickly set about the Chiefs from the outset. With a flurry of early penalties awarded against the Chiefs, the hosts took the lead on three minutes when Kiwi fly-half Evans slotted them in front after Exeter were adjudged to have not released at the tackle. It was not the best of starts for the Chiefs, but having lost No.8 James Phillips to a serious looking leg injury, they fell further behind on eight minutes when Evans punted over a second penalty after referee Sean Davey penalised Exeter’s James Scaysbrook for not rolling away. The Chiefs clearly needed to regroup against the early onslaught and that they did as Irish fly-half Steenson cut the deficit with a penalty of his own on 12 minutes. But yet more injury woe hit the Chiefs shortly after when Sestaret limped out of the fray to be replaced by Paul McKenzie. Despite the untimely changes, Baxter will have been content with the way his troops continued to come back into the match. Steenson rattled a lengthy penalty from halfway against the left post on 24 minutes, but atoned two minutes later and he restored parity with a much easier effort after the home side had strayed offside in front of their own posts. Immediately, though, the Chiefs allowed Harlequins to reclaim the lead as a sloppy restart from the visitors saw them fall foul of referee Davey once more, thus allowing Evans the opportunity to strike for a third time. Although behind Exeter continued to offer much to the contest as they threatened the home line through Foster and Tom Johnson. Their efforts, sadly, proved in vain and it was Harlequins who stretched their lead as the half drew towards a close. A series of attacks saw Quins punch their way into enemy territory, creating the opening for England international Nick Easter to power his way over for the opening try, which Evans duly converted. HALF TIME HARLEQUINS 16 EXETER CHIEFS 6 Things did not improve for Baxter’s side after the break as Harlequins again flew out of the traps. Early pressure from the Londoners brought them rich rewards as they made the most of Haydn Thomas’ yellow card to extend their lead to 19-6 with another Evans penalty. Then, with the man advantage, they pulled further in front as a slick attacking move, which started on the right flank and finished on the left, saw winger Gonzalo Camacho canter over for a second try, which Evans again converted. A nightmare afternoon for the Premiership newcomers continued to go from bad to worse as James Hanks became the second Chief to be sent to the cooler. With the lock’s muscle missing from the pack, Harlequins rammed home their intent from the resultant scrum which, after a few resets, went down one too many times for Davey, who subsequently punished Exeter with a converted penalty try. Baxter did his best to inject some life into his side with a flurry of second half replacements, but the tactic failed to bring any reward for the Devonians who, it has to be said, failed to meet the same excellent standards shown in their three previous league fixtures. Again the huge penalty count came back to haunt the Chiefs who, with only a few minutes remaining, conceded a bonus point try when the home side worked a line-out move inside and there was replacement Tom Guest to stretch out his arm and touchdown. Evans dispatched the resultant conversion to complete a 100 per cent record, but even then there was still time for the Chiefs to finish with a flourish as winger Foster dived over in the left corner for a consolation try, which Ryan Davis was able to convert with the last kick of the game. Harlequins: M Brown; G Camacho, O Smith (R Chisholm 35), J Turner-Hall, G Lowe; N Evans (R Clegg 78), D Care (K Dickson 78); J Marler (C Jones 66), M Cairns (C Brooker 51), J Johnston (M Lambert 51); O Kohn (T Guest 51), T Vallejos (P Browne 78); C Robshaw (capt), W Skinner, N Easter. Tries – Easter, Camacho, Penalty Try, Guest; Conversions – Evans (4); Penalties – Evans (4) Chiefs: L Arscott; M Jess, N Sestaret (P McKenzie 22), B Rennie, M Foster; G Steenson (R Davis 62), H Thomas (J Poluleuligaga 64); B Sturgess (B Moon 78), N Clark (S Alcott 51), H Tui (C Budgen 56); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (D Gannon 72); T Johnson, J Scaysbrook, J Phillips (C Slade 6). Try – Foster; Conversion – Davis; Penalties – Steenson (2) Yellow Cards: Thomas, Hanks Referee: S Davey Attendance: 11,461 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2844 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2844 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST Pictures: Phil Mingo/Pinnacle Photography Exeter Chiefs   22Newcastle Falcons  17 Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Gareth Steenson stuck the boot into Newcastle Falcons as his 17-point haul helped lift Exeter Chiefs to third in the Aviva Premiership. Just as he did against Gloucester on the opening day of the season, the Irishman punished the indiscretions of the visitors with a near flawless display of goal-kicking for the league newcomers. In the first of five fixtures scheduled for the two clubs this season, Exeter head coach Rob Baxter stuck with an unchanged line-up from that he had fielded in the club’s opening two encounters against Gloucester and Leicester Tigers. Like the Chiefs, the Falcons – making their first-ever visit to Sandy Park – came into the contest with a playing record of won one, lost one. And following their victory over London Wasps last time out, they made two changes to their line-up with Rob Vickerman coming into the centre for Andy Henderson, while Alex Tait replaced Luke Fielden at full-back. With another bumper crowd in attendance, the Chiefs replicated their storming start to that of the Gloucester game a fortnight ago and took just four minutes to open their account for the day. With the hosts pressing deep into Newcastle territory, the visitors infringed at a ruck wide on the left, gifting Steenson with the chance to slot a 30 metre penalty. At the other end, Newcastle declined a similar opening of their own, opting instead to try and truck it up through their pack. The move, though, was repelled by the Chiefs and having won an excellent turnover, an unnecessary late charge on Steenson saw referee Greg Garner banish flanker Redford Pennycook to the sin-bin. Although the Chiefs had the man advantage they were unable to add to their tally despite a spell of sustained pressure close to the Newcastle line. But with playing parity restored, the Falcons hit back with deadly effect.  A scrum wide on the left saw scrum-half Micky Young collect at the base before offloading to the onrushing Charlie Amesbury, who exposed a gap in the home defence before sprinting in under the sticks for Jimmy Gopperth to convert. The lead proved somewhat short lived for the Falcons as the Chiefs hit back on the half-hour mark when a mistake by Young allowed opposite number Haydn Thomas to pounce on the loose ball before shipping it sideways to the waiting Tom Johnson, who powered over for the converted score. But no sooner had Baxter’s side nosed themselves back in front, the Falcons levelled the game up when Gopperth landed a 35-metre penalty after the Chiefs had been penalised for offside. With little to choose between either side during a physical opening 40 minutes, which accounted for the loss of Newcastle skipper James Hudson to a hamstring injury, it was little surprise that the teams entered into the break deadlocked. HALF TIME   EXETER CHIEFS 10  NEWCASTLE FALCONS 10 Just as they had done in the first half, the Chiefs again started brightly as Steenson’s reliable right boot edged them back in front with a routine penalty after 49 minutes. The score ignited the hosts who continued to press forward with wave upon wave of attacks.  The Falcons initially did well to weather the storm, but as the pressure grew the visitors were pinged yet again by referee Garner for infringing in front of their own posts. It allowed Steenson to slot his third penalty of the game. Exeter continued to push forward in search of further points, but despite their domination they failed to trouble the scorers.  And it was Newcastle who countered when centre Rob Vickerman was able to trundle over after the visitors had picked their way through the home rearguard. Gopperth obliged with the additional extras to put his side back in front. The kicking duel between the respective number tens continued apace as Steenson found the target yet again to restore the home side’s lead, but the Irishman proved he was half human shortly after when another lengthy effort cannoned back off the left post. Steenson was afforded another opportunity with five minutes remaining and the Dungannon-born back made no mistake this time as he thundered over a majestic effort from the left flank to put his side up 22-17. With time fast running out, the Falcons threatened a late upset with a smart counter-attack which went almost the length of the field. To their credit, the Chiefs – in particular Matt Jess – scrambled in defence, winning a turnover penalty which effectively sealed the game. A standing ovation greeted the final whistle, but as Baxter well knows tougher test lie ahead in the coming weeks, starting with next week’s trip to Harlequins. Chiefs: L Arscott; N Sestaret, P Dollman, B Rennie (M Jess 55), M Foster; G Steenson, H Thomas; B Sturgess, N Clark (S Alcott 67), H Tui (C Budgen 60); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks; T Johnson (C Slade 48-60), J Scaysbrook, J Phillips (C Slade 60). Replacements (not used): B Moon, D Gannon, J Poluleuligaga, R Davis. Try – Johnson; Conversion – Steenson; Penalties – Steenson (5) Falcons: A Tait; G Bobo, R Vickerman (J Manning 67), L Eves, C Amesbury; J Gopperth, M Young; J Golding (G Shiells 62), R Vickers, T Ryan (K Brookes 46); J Hudson (capt, G Townson 36), T Swinson; B Wilson, R Pennycook (W Welch 72), A Hogg. Replacements (not used):  M Ward, C Pilgrim, L Fielden. Tries – Amesbury, Vickerman; Conversions – Gopperth (2); Penalty - Gopperth Yellow Card: Pennycook Referee: G Garner (RFU) Touch Judges: A Biggs, R Davies. Fourth Official: D Rose Attendance: 7,326 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2841 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2841 Sat, 18 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST LEICESTER TIGERS 37  EXETER CHIEFS 27 Mark Stevens at Welford Road SOMETIMES life is just unfair and you don’t get the reward for the effort you put in. As Exeter Chiefs departed Welford Road, the home of defending Aviva Premiership champions Leicester Tigers, it’s hard not to feel something for Rob Baxter and his Chiefs squad. Having put in a tireless shift – one which was full of energy and desire – it was the Chiefs who headed home pointless, robbed of any reward by a late salvo from the never-say-die Tigers. A converted penalty try in the dying minutes of an absorbing contest not only ensured Richard Cockerill’s hosts capped their first home game of the season with their opening win of the campaign, but at the same time cruelly denied Baxter’s bravehearts from at least a bonus point their heroic efforts deserved. With confidence still running high within the Chiefs camp following their opening day win over Gloucester at Sandy Park; it was no surprise that Baxter stuck with the same starting line-up for their date with the defending Premiership champions. The only tinkering the visitors made to their match-day squad came on the bench where new signing James Honeyben – signed on Thursday on a short-term deal from Blackheath – came in for the injured Garrick Cowley. The Tigers, like Gloucester the week previous, were loaded with international stars, including skipper Geordan Murphy, Ben Youngs, Dan Hipkiss, George Chuter and the returning Tom Croft. Unlike the Chiefs, Leicester did make changes to their side which was beaten by Northampton Saints in week one. Into the front-row came Boris Stankovich and Dan Cole, while behind Jeremy Staunton replaced the injured Toby Flood at fly-half. In a bright opening to the game for Baxter’s side, fly-half Gareth Steenson immediately picked up from where he left off against the Cherry & Whites, stroking Exeter into a third-minute lead after the hosts were penalised for infringing at a ruck. As expected there was a riposte from the Tigers who, following a series of drives deep inside the Exeter 22, got themselves within touching distance of the visiting line. Although the Chiefs repelled the initial raids, the loss of lock James Hanks to the sin-bin for a professional foul enabled Leicester to exploit the man advantage and work the ball across their back division for Murphy to score the opening try, which Staunton was able to convert. Worse could have followed for the Chiefs when Youngs exploited a gaping hole in the Exeter backline with a darting run in midfield, but thankfully full-back Luke Arscott was on hand to halt the England international as he closed in on his intended target. Although behind the Chiefs did not let the deficit worry them and with some inspired play of their own, they reduced the arrears to a point when Irishman Steenson slotted a second penalty on 26 minutes. If that was good, what followed just three minutes later was even better as Baxter’s side worked the ball a treat from right to left to Mark Foster, who shrugged off the tackles of at least three men before slipping the ball back inside to fellow centre Phil Dollman, who outpaced the retreating cover to dive in under the sticks for Steenson to convert. Dollman then repeated the feat shortly before the break when he was able to apply the finishing touches to another razor sharp attack from the Chiefs.  With a scrum just inside their own half, Haydn Thomas fed the ball into the path of Arscott, who tore through the heart of the Leicester midfield before shipping the ball to the Welshman who again raced in under the posts for Steenson to convert once more. Leicester briefly countered just seconds before the break when Staunton landed a 35-metre penalty, but in truth the half belonged to the men from Devon. HALF TIME  LEICESTER TIGERS 10 EXETER CHIEFS 20  Tigers boss Richard Cockerill introduced the experienced Croft and prop Marcos Ayerza into the fray for the second half. However, Croft’s first real involvement in the contest was to concede a penalty just inside his own half. Sadly, Steenson was unable to punish the indiscretion, pushing his effort just wide of the right post. More big names, quite literally, in the shape of Martin Castrogiovanni were added to the Leicester mix and his extra bulk at scrum time saw the Tigers capitalise when referee Dean Richards penalised James Phillips for holding on in the tackle. Staunton administered the resultant penalty, before firing over another similar effort just five minutes later to reduce Exeter’s advantage to just four points. Any hopes, however, of a Leicester revival were soon extinguished as the Chiefs hit back with deadly effect. Turnover ball just inside the Leicester half allowed Thomas to pick his gap and when the ball was recycled wide to the left there was Foster to dart over in the corner. Steenson duly obliged with a sublime touchline conversion. What makes champions, though, is that they never give in and they know to dig deep when they have to. With 16 minutes left of play, the Tigers roared back into life when they worked a neat overlap on the right for winger Scott Hamilton to crash over in the corner. Although there was a brief wait for the touchdown to be confirmed by the TV match official, it was finally confirmed by referee Richards and Staunton banged over the additional two points to set up a grandstand finale. The score clearly ignited the hosts who regained the lead with 11 minutes remaining when quick ball following Croft’s galloping run down the left enabled them to work the ball across the field and into the arms of Hipkiss, who did the rest for a third try which Staunton converted. Sensing their opportunity to sink the Chiefs with one final telling blow, a succession of scrums just yards from the Exeter line finally bore fruit when referee Richards punished the ‘Men in White’ with a penalty try. Staunton converted yet again with the last kick of the game. To come away with nothing was indeed rough justice on Baxter’s side, whose on field efforts throughout a pulsating encounter deserved much more than it ultimately did. Leicester Tigers: G Murphy (capt); S Hamilton, D Hipkiss, A Allen (B Twelvetrees 22, M Tuilagi 75), A Tuilagi; J Staunton, B Youngs; B Stankovich (M Ayerza h/t), G Chuter, D Cole (M Castrogiovanni  50); C Green (T Croft h/t), G Skivington; C Newby (E Slater 65), B Woods, T Waldrom. Replacements (not used): J Duffey, J Grindal. Tries – Murphy, Hamilton, Hipkiss, Penalty Try; Conversions – Staunton (4); Penalties – Staunton (3) Exeter Chiefs: L Arscott; N Sestaret, P Dollman, B Rennie (M Jess 67), M Foster; G Steenson, H Thomas; B Sturgess (B Moon 58), N Clark (S Alcott 54), H Tui (C Budgen 18); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks; T Johnson (C Slade 52), J Scaysbrook, J Phillips (D Gannon 63). Replacements (not used):  J Honeyben, R Davis. Tries – Dollman (2), Foster; Conversions – Steenson (3); Penalties – Steenson (2) Yellow Card: Hanks Referee: D Richards (RFU) Touch Judges: A Buck & R Goodliffe Attendance: 17,956 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2840 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2840 Sun, 12 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST Exeter Chiefs  22   Gloucester  10 Mark Stevens at Sandy Park LIFE in the Aviva Premiership started with a bang as Exeter Chiefs produced a stunning display to sink visiting Gloucester at Sandy Park. With the bookies’ placing Rob Baxter’s side as favourites for an instant return to the Championship, the Chiefs defiantly rammed those numbers back down their throats in emphatic fashion. As was the case back in May when they won promotion at Bristol, it was the laser guided boot of fly-half Gareth Steenson which again did much of the damage. The Irishman helped himself to a 17-point haul on this his debut in English rugby’s top flight. Former Gloucester winger Mark Foster completed the scoring with Exeter’s one and only try, while all the visitors could muster in reply were tries through James Simpson-Daniel and Tim Taylor. Ahead of kick-off, however, and with all the pre-season work done and dusted, it was time to get down to the bread and butter of league action for the ‘Men In Black’ at a sun-baked Sandy Park. Roared on by a crowd of 9,562, the Chiefs – who started with 13 of last season’s promotion-winning squad – wasted little time in spelling out their intentions. Baxter’s boys roared out of the traps in a storming opening to the contest. Just five minutes had been played when the Premiership’s newest arrival broke their deadlock. With a scrum midway inside the Gloucester half, the home side went right then left, working the ball along the line to Phil Dollman, who drew in the cover before offloading to winger Foster to power over. Steenson obliged with the resultant conversion and the Chiefs were up and running in the top flight. Gloucester, as you would expect, needed to find a response and it came five minutes later. England international Mike Tindall led the visiting charge as he bulldozed his way to within inches of the home line and from the resultant scrum, the ball was worked wide to the right where James Simpson-Daniel was waiting to cross for an unconverted score. For Exeter it proved a mere blip as they rallied back into action with aplomb. Again more good handling from the hosts saw them drive deep into enemy territory, where upon Tindall was adjudged by referee Rob Debney to have infringed at a ruck. Step forward Steenson who, as we have seen many times in the past, administered a telling blow from the left flank to make it 10-5. Gloucester huffed and puffed as the half ticked by, but it was the Chiefs who extended their lead on 32 minutes when Steenson’s deadly right boot found the target again – this time after Glos No.8 Luke Narraway was deemed the guilty culprit at the ruck area. But whereas Steenson was kicking everything, opposite number Nicky Robinson was doing quite the opposite as he failed with three first half kicks, the last of which came just before the break when he cannoned a 30-metre effort against the left post. The Irishman merely rubbed salt into the wounds of Robinson as he then plundered a sublime effort from wide on the right to make it 16-5 at the break to the Devon club. HALF TIME  EXETER CHIEFS 16  GLOUCESTER 5 It did not get any better for Robinson on the resumption as he again fluffed another opportunity, this time stroking his effort – after Hoani Tui had been harshly penalised at a scrum – wide of the left upright once more. The Maori prop, however, was enjoying a fine game and it was summed up when he put in a bone-crunching hit on Tindall. Gloucester’s pressure was beginning to mount as they looked to pull themselves back into the game. Continually they looked to drive at the Exeter defence which, by and large, held firm until the 57th minute when replacement Tim Taylor was able to pick a hole through to score another unconverted effort. From the restart, though, the Chiefs were straight back on the offensive forcing Gloucester to infringe as the home pack looked to rumble a line-out move forward. Once again there was Steenson to oblige with another telling blow. As Gloucester rang the changes from the bench, the Chiefs continued to pile forward in numbers and were almost rewarded when a cute cross-field kick from Steenson almost found Matt Jess, who knocked on with the line in sight. Although that chance was missed, the Chiefs took the next opportunity afforded to them as they powered their way into the Gloucester 22 from where Steenson was able to plunder a simple drop-goal to make it 22-10. With a healthy cushion to play with, the Chiefs manfully saw off the remainder of the game. Chiefs: L Arscott; N Sestaret, P Dollman (M Jess 47-58), B Rennie (M Jess 58), M Foster; G Steenson, H Thomas (G Cowley 80); B Sturgess (B Moon 76), N Clark (S Alcott 53), H Tui (C Budegn 61); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (D Gannon 75); T Johnson, J Scaysbrook, J Phillips (C Slade 53). Replacement (not used): R Davis. Try – Foster; Conversion – Steenson; Penalty – Steenson (4); Drop-Goal – Steenson   Gloucester: O Morgan (T Taylor 22); J Simpson-Daniel, M Tindall (capt, T Molenaar 66), E Fuimaono-Sapolu, L Vainikolo; N Robinson, D Lewis (J Pasqualin 70); N Wood (A Dickenson 58), S Lawson (O Azam 76), P Capdevielle; D Attwood, A Brown (W James 76); P Buxton (A Strokosch 50), A Qera, L Narraway. Replacement (not used): R Harden. Tries – Simpson-Daniel, Taylor; Referee: R Debney (RFU) Attendance: 9,562 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2837 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2837 Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:00:00 BST SCARLETS 24 EXETER CHIEFS 20Mark Stevens at Parc Y ScarletNobody said life in the Aviva Premiership was going to be easy, but Exeter Chiefs have clearly been given a taste of what to expect following a demanding pre-season programme.Rob Baxter’s side concluded their planning process for the new season with a narrow 24-20 defeat against Magners League outfit Llanelli Scarlets at Parc Y Scarlet on Friday night.Again it was another worthwhile exercise for the Chiefs, who having trailed 17-3 at the break, had left themselves with just too much to do in the second period. To their credit, though, the Devon club fought back valiantly and with a bit more time they could well have gone into next Saturday’s Premiership opener against Gloucester at Sandy Park on the back of a notable victory.As was the case against Cardiff, Baxter again stuck with many of last season’s promotion-winning squad, although two of his summer recruits – Junior Poluleuligaga and Luke Arscott – were brought in as the only two changes to the side that went down to the Blues 26-21.For full-back Arscott – now in his second spell with the club – it was his first start of the new season in place of Phil Dollman, while Poluleuligaga took over in the number nine jersey in place of Haydn Thomas.Resplendent in their new white strip, the Chiefs started brightly and took the lead inside four minutes when fly-half Gareth Steenson fired over a 35-metre penalty after the hosts had been penalised for a late tackle.From the restart, however, the Scarlets hit back immediately. Having punted a penalty to the corner, flanker Jonathan Edwards took the resultant line-out and following a couple of close-in shoves, prop Rhys Thomas rumbled over for the opening try, which fly-half Rhys Priestland converted from wide on the left flank.The Chiefs briefly countered with a couple of decent breaks involving Nic Sestaret and Steenson, but it was the home who stretched their lead in the 19th minute when Welsh international Iestyn Thomas was able to round off a series of attacking drives by squirming through a mass of bodies.Like the Scarlets before them, the Chiefs themselves looked for an immediate riposte. No.8 James Phillips and Arscott both made decent inroads into the home defence, but their efforts were thwarted by some robust defence from the Welsh rearguard.Indeed, the nearest Exeter got to adding to their tally in the opening 40 minutes came when Steenson was awarded a second penalty chance. Sadly, he was unable to find the target for a second time as his right-footed effort sailed wide of the left post.With half-time approaching, the Chiefs suffered a double blow when they lost Samoan internationals Chad Slade and Poluleuligaga to injury – the latter of whom looked in discomfort as he walked from the field.If that wasn’t bad enough for the visitors, the Scarlets claimed a third try in stoppage time when a break from Gareth Maule in midfield set-up Priestland to chip the ball in behind the Exeter defence – and there was winger Andy Fenby to latch onto the loose ball. Priestland was again unable to convert with the last kick of the half.HALF TIME – SCARLETS 17 EXETER CHIEFS 3 Just as they did in the opening 40, the Chiefs were quickest out of the traps and with three minutes played they cut the deficit when Steenson obliged with his second successful kick after the hosts were penalised for straying offside in front of their own posts.Again, though, there was an instant response from the Welshmen who punched a series of holes into the Exeter defence, before replacement scrum-half Gareth Davies fed the ball into the path of the onrushing Phil John, who barged his way over the whitewash for a fourth score, converted by Priestland.Minutes later and it was the turn of the Chiefs to find their way over the line. Making the most of John being sent to the sin-bin for a professional foul, the Chiefs pack combined as one to drive flanker Tom Johnson over for a try, which Steenson delightfully converted from wide on the right.The score clearly ignited Baxter’s side who continued to batter away at the home side. Pushing and probing, Exeter’s superior fitness was clearly begin to tell and when centre Bryan Rennie strode under the posts following a well constructed move off the back of a scrum – Steenson converting – it set up an enthralling finale to the game. In the dying embers of the clash, the Scarlets saw a late penalty from Daniel Evans fail to find its mark, while a superb tackle from Johnson prevented Dale Ford from a certain try with just three minutes remaining.In the end the Chiefs had left themselves with a little too much to do. That said, Baxter and his team have plenty of positives to work with as they prepare to set sail into new and uncharted waters. Scarlets: M Stoddart (D Evans 31); A Fenby, G Maule (J Davies h/t), R King, J Ajuwa; R Priestland (D Ford 74), T Knoyle (G Davies h/t); I Thomas (P John h/t), E Phillips (K Owens h/t), R Thomas (D Manu h/t); L Reed (D Day 60), D Welch (V Cooper 53); J Turnbull (I Thomas 54-60, R Pugh 68), J Edwards (R McCusker 32), D Lyons (capt, J Fa’amatuainu 60). Tries – R Thomas, I Thoma, Fenby, Johns; Conversions – Priestland (2)Yellow Card: John  Chiefs: L Arscott; M Jess (P Dollman 51), B Rennie, M Foster, N Sestaret; G Steenson, J Poluleuligaga (H Thomas 38); B Sturgess (B Moon 59), N Clark (S Alcott 54), H Tui (C Budgen 54); T Hayes (capt, D Gannon 47), J Hanks; C Slade (T Johnson 34), J Scaysbrook (A Miller 59), J Phillips (C Slade 70). Replacements (not used): G Cowley, J Matavesi.Tries – Johnson, Rennie; Conversion – Steenson (2); Penalties – Steenson (2)Referee: G Morris (WRFU) http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2836 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2836 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 00:00:00 BST EXETER CHIEFS    21CARDIFF BLUES   26 Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Exeter Chiefs kicked-off their pre-season programme with a narrow 26-21 defeat at home to Magners League visitors Cardiff Blues.In their first run-out since they were promoted to the Aviva Premiership, it was a familiar looking line-up that took to the lush Sandy Park turf.Of the 15 that started the Championship play-off final against Bristol back in May, 13 started against a Blues side, which included the likes of Paul Tito, Tom Shanklin, Ceri Sweeney and summer signing Dan Parks.After a punishing pre-season training programme, however, the Chiefs players were understandably chomping at the bit to get stuck into some competitive action. Indeed, it showed in the opening exchanges as Rob Baxter’s side took the game to their counterparts from the Principality.That early endeavour soon brought reward as fly-half Gareth Steenson slotted the home side in front with an eighth-minute penalty after the Blues had strayed offside in front of their own posts.That is how it stayed until the 27th minute when the visitors struck with the first of two tries in the opening 40 minutes. With the Chiefs under pressure close to halfway, Cardiff’s dogged work around the ruck area saw the ball come loose and there was winger Tom James who pounced before galloping unopposed under the sticks for Sweeney to convert.Within three minutes, though, the Chiefs countered with points of their own as a determined run from centre Bryan Rennie caused problems in the Cardiff rearguard and from the ensuing play the Welshmen infringed once more, allowing Steenson to fire over a second penalty of the game.It was an intriguing battle, particularly up front where the two packs were happy to tear strips off each other. However, with half-time approaching it was the Blues who extended their tally when they crossed for their second touchdown. Working the ball through a series of phases, it was finally shifted to the left flank where full-back Chris Czekaj was able to pick his way through for the touchdown.The final word of the opening half, however, belonged to the Chiefs who having been thwarted by some streetwise defensive work from the Blues, then slotted another Steenson penalty to leave just three points in it at the turn. HALF TIME – EXETER CHIEFS 9 CARDIFF BLUES 12 Although Baxter resisted any changes during the break, Cardiff did rotate their squad a little and it soon paid dividends as they added a third try within five minutes of the restart. Prop John Yapp made the initial burst before offering the simple offload to former London Welsh forward Tom Brown, who was able to dot down.Sweeney added the extras to that score and a fourth which arrived just past the hour mark when Welsh international Tom Shanklin was able to slip off a tackle from Rennie and cross under the sticks to make it 26-9.As replacements aplenty littered the second period, it was the Chiefs who added to their tally seven minutes from time. Turnover ball against Cardiff replacement Dan Fish saw Exeter speedster Matt Jess latch onto the loose ball, before he turned on the after burners and scorched his way down the right touchline to make it 26-14.The score ignited the majority of the 4,000+ crowd and the Chiefs who should really have added a second score when Nic Sestaret and Josh Matavesi combined well only for the former to knock on just six metres from the whitewash.Although Cardiff survived that let off, they were unable to stop Steenson from crossing for a second home try deep into injury time, the Irishman cantering over following good approach work from replacements Garrick Cowley and Ben Moon. Steenson duly converted his own score with the final kick of the game to leave just five points in it at the final whistle. Chiefs: P Dollman (J Matavesi  57); M Jess, B Rennie, M Foster, N Sestaret; G Steenson, H Thomas (G Cowley 62); B Sturgess (B Moon 72), N Clark (S Alcott 62), H Tui (C Budgen 62); T Hayes (capt), J Hanks (D Gannon 67); C Slade (T Johnson 51), J Scaysbrook, J Phillips. Replacements (not used):  P McKenzie, C Bentley, A Miller, D Locke. Tries – Jess, Steenson; Conversion – Steenson; Penalties – Steenson (3) Cardiff Blues: C Czekaj (D Fish 69); R Mustoe, G Evans (D Hewitt h/t), T Shanklin, T James (J Loxton 69);  C Sweeney, L Williams; T Davies (S Hobbs 62), T Rhys-Thomas (K Dacey 24), J Yapp (S Andrews h/t); J Down (B Griffiths h/t), P Tito (capt, B White 53); M Paterson, S Warburton, T Brown (M Molitika 62). Replacements (not used):  R Rees, D Parks. Tries – James, Czekaj, Brown; Conversions – Sweeney (2) Referee: A McPherson (SRFU) Attendance: 4,356. http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2829 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2829 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 BST EXETER CHIEFS   22CORNISH PIRATES  14 Mark Stevens at Sandy Park Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter admitted he had been given plenty of food for thought as he watched his side record a 22-14 victory in their latest pre-season fixture over visiting Cornish Pirates at Sandy Park. Playing their second game inside 24 hours, Baxter – as promised – used this latest encounter to run the remainder of his first-team squad, who missed out on Saturday’s home friendly with Cardiff Blues.  Of the 15 who started for the hosts, five [Charlie Walker-Blair, Mike Canty, Junior Polu, Chris Whitehead and Ignacio Elosu] were all making their debuts for the Aviva Premiership newcomers. In a bright opening to the game the ‘Men in Black’ soon set about their visitors from across the Tamar – especially up front – where there appeared a clear difference in terms of strength in and around both the set-piece and ruck areas. It was no surprise therefore when the Chiefs went ahead on 11 minutes, centre Josh Matavesi stroking over a penalty from 22 metres after the Pirates had been penalised for holding on in the tackle. From the restart, though, the Pirates were quickly on the offensive and having kicked a penalty to the corner, they opened their account for the afternoon when referee Keith Lewis awarded them a penalty try, converted by Rob Cook, after the hosts were deemed to have pulled down a maul just yards from their own line. The Cornishmen held onto that slender advantage until just before the half-hour mark when the Chiefs hit back with their opening try. With Pirates centre Steve Winn in the sin-bin for a professional foul, the Chiefs duly made them pay when lock Chris Bentley bulldozed his way under the sticks for Matavesi to convert. Both sides had chances to add to their tally before the break, the Chiefs huffed and puffed with a series of close-in drives, whilst Pirates centre Matt Hopper should really have made the most of a lively break from Gavin Cattle. As it was neither made the breakthrough and it was the home side who led by three at the break. HALF TIME: CHIEFS 10   CORNISH PIRATES 7 The Pirates, who introduced the towering Ian Nimmo for Mike Myerscough during the interval, were quickly out of the traps on the resumption and following a neat exchange of passes down the left involving Cook, Tom Luke and Cattle, it was the latter that squirmed his way over for the score which was converted from the touchline by Cook. Minutes later and it could have been even worse for the Chiefs as Hopper, a summer signing from Plymouth Albion, again broke clear only for Walker-Blair to race back and clear the danger. It was a left off for the home side who, after an indifferent few minutes, finally restored their lead on 53 minutes. Scottish flanker Andy Miller did the donkey work early on to drive within sight of the line and when the ball was recycled through his fellow forwards, there was replacement prop Ben Moon to burrow his way over with his first touch of the ball. Matavesi banged over the touchline conversion for that score, but he was unable to add the extras to Walker-Blair’s maiden score which followed just four minutes later. The winger was on hand to barge his way over from close range after the impressive Polu and Paul McKenzie had carved open the Pirates rearguard.In a scrappy conclusion to the game, a bout of handbags between Drew Locke and Hopper, caused a brief on-field skirmish, but by then the job was all but complete for the Chiefs, who will now ready themselves for Friday’s testing trip to Magners League outfit Llanelli Scarlets. Chiefs: P McKenzie; C Walker-Blair, D Locke, J Matavesi, M Canty; G Cowley, J Polu; R Murphy (B Moon 50), C Whitehead (J Vickers 79), I Elosu (C Budgen 44); C Bentley, D Gannon (capt); H Stupple, A Miller, D Ewers. Replacements (not used) :  J Andrew, O Marriott, J Fleming, R Avery-Wright, C Reakes, R Coote. Tries – Bentley, Moon, Walker-Blair; Conversions – Matavesi (2); Penalty – Matavesi Pirates: R Cook; R McAtee, M Hopper, S Winn (N Jackson 58), T Luke; J Bentley, G Cattle (capt, J Doherty 71); R Storer (C Rimmer 51), D Ward (R Elloway 18-24, 66), J Currie (A Paver 58); M Myerscough (I Nimmo h/t), L McGlone; C Morgan (S Betty 51), T Holmes, K Marriott (B Cowan 66). Replacement (not used):  G Goodfellow. Tries – Penalty Try, Cattle; Conversions – Cook (2) Yellow Card: Winn Referee: K Lewis (RFU) Attendance: 2,280 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2830 http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/site/4/RESULTS.html?ar_item=2830 Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 BST