Exeter Chiefs Hit Top Spot With Bristol Win
The Exeter Chiefs hold top spot in the Gallagher Premiership after an impressive home win against close rivals Bristol.
The Chiefs went into the game on the back of a fine 43-0 victory against Sale and chasing a third successive win at Sandy Park.
Despite missing Greg Fisilau through injury, Exeter charged out of the blocks to take the lead in the opening two minutes thanks to Rus Tuima, with Henry Slade adding the extras before Bristol fought back with two tries from Rich Lane and a Callum Sheedy penalty to take the lead.
A converted score from Ehren Painter ensured Exeter held a slender lead at half-time, and Tommy Wyatt then scored his first Premiership try to extend the advantage just moments after the restart.
Although Lane was able to complete his hat-trick for the visitors shortly afterwards, Josh Iosefa-Scott crossed for a fourth Exeter try and a bonus point before a late penalty from Slade wrapped up a 29-20 victory.
A third win in four games this season moves the Vertu Motors-backed Chiefs a point ahead of Harlequins in the standings to lead the way ahead of a trip to Northampton this weekend.