Christmas Cheer For Exeter Chiefs
The Exeter Chiefs remain well placed going into the final Gallagher Premiership fixture of 2023 after an impressive victory against Leicester Tigers.
Fortress Sandy Park was again evident as the Vertu Motors-backed side maintained its impressive home form – extending an unbeaten record lasting more than a year out to 23 games.
In front of a record crowd of 15,000, the Chiefs grabbed the lead early on when Jacques Vermeulen went over from close range after six minutes for the opening try and four minutes later, the lead was extended when the home side was awarded a penalty try following a foul by George Martin – who was sent to the sin-bin.
The Tigers were able to hold on despite being a man down, although Exeter moved further clear before the break as Henry Slade – who had converted Vermeulen’s early try – was able to sprint in from 50 metres after picking up a loose ball.
Adding the extras from the conversion put the Chiefs into a 21-0 lead at half-time and he then scored a penalty before Leicester got on the scoresheet through tries from Anthony Watson and Freddie Steward.
A late try from Ruisi Tuima completed a fine day for Exeter as it secured a 29-10 win and the additional bonus points to move the Chiefs to within four points of leaders Bath.
The final game of the year sees the Chiefs make the short trip to Bristol on Friday evening.