Chiefs thrash Saracens in Premiership opener

Exeter sit top of the table

Exeter Chiefs started the 2023/24 Premiership campaign with an enthralling victory over the reigning champions, Saracens. The Chiefs entered this season with a significantly different squad, and today’s victory over the Saracens marks a new era.

Following last weekend’s loss against Westcountry rivals in the Premiership rugby cup, it was vital for Exeter to bounce back for the Gallagher premiership clash against the North London club.

Exeter started the match quickly; they capitalised on a handling error from Saracens and touched down within two minutes. They were indefatigable in the first half, scoring seven tries in 40 minutes; Saracens were ill-disciplined in this period, with two players in the sin bin. 

This new look Exeter was entertaining to watch and reminiscent of some of Exeter’s best performances. At the break, the score line was almost certainly unassailable. Exeter 41, Saracens 0.

There was a glimmer of hope for the Premiership champions as they touched down early in the second half. But that aspiration was made redundant from a dominating display in the second period, where the hosts touched down four more times.

Exeter’s Josh Hodge managed a hat trick. Although Sarries were short of World Cup stars, it was one of their worst defeats.

The full-time score was Exeter Chiefs 65, Saracens 10.
    
The home crowd at Sandy Park enjoyed every second of that display and what encouragement for a revamped Exeter side.