Exeter Chiefs win fierce grudge match

Chiefs defeat Saracens in front of sold-out Sandy Park

Exeter Chiefs have been slightly inconsistent of late, but they were in fine form today as they defeated bitter rivals Saracens 18-15 in front of a sold-out Sandy Park.

With the win, Exeter move to fourth place, but other teams have games in hand.

It was Saracens’ first trip to Devon for two years after they were controversially relegated from the Premiership following their salary cap scandal.

The visitors, playing without England captain Owain Farrell, started the game brightly and took an early three-point lead thanks to Lozosski.

The Chiefs thought they responded instantly with a try from Sam Simmonds – but the TMO ruled it out for a forward pass in the build-up.

The frustration started to grow around Sandy Park when Joe Simmonds missed a penalty kick from 30 yards out, however, with his second attempt minutes later, he made no mistake from the tee.

Sarries regained the lead with three more points, but on the stroke of half-time, the Chiefs produced the opening try of the contest in superb fashion. A cross-field kick from Simmonds found Tom O’Flaherty on the wing, who caught the ball in the air and dotted it down in the corner.

It's a beautiful @ExeterChiefs score! 💫

Tom O'Flaherty leaps above Aled Davies to gather Joe Simmonds' inch-perfect cross-field kick and dots down! #GallagherPrem pic.twitter.com/tTXJ8nSod4

— Rugby on BT Sport (@btsportrugby) December 4, 2021

The hosts narrowly led 8-6 at the break.

Sarries, playing with the wind behind the in the second half, slotted their third penalty kick early on giving them a one-point lead.

Exeter, once more, came from behind to score another brilliant try. Making his first start in a couple of months, Luke Cowan-Dickie powered his way over the line from close range. Simmonds slotted the extras.

With 15 minutes left to play, Simmonds kept his cool to convert another penalty kick – giving his side a nine-point lead.

The visitors set up a nervy ending with two quick penalties, but the Chiefs held on to secure the important win. It ended: Exeter 18 Saracens 15