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Exeter Chiefs Secure Maiden Premiership Win Over Gloucester

In the final Premiership game of 2024, Exeter Chiefs marked a significant turnaround with a 22-15 victory over Gloucester at Sandy Park. The match saw Exeter break their winless streak at home, a drought that had lasted since May.

The game began on a high note for the hosts as Dan Frost scored a try just two minutes in. Gloucester responded quickly with a Santi Carreras penalty, but Exeter maintained the momentum with a second try from Tamati Tua. Despite some close calls, Exeter could not capitalize on all their chances, particularly when Richard Capstick missed a pass in the corner just before halftime.

In the second half, Gloucester staged a comeback, with Gareth Anscombe scoring a try after intercepting a misplaced Exeter pass. Jamal Ford-Robinson then gave Gloucester the lead for the first time in the game, but Carreras' missed conversion kept the margin narrow. However, Henry Slade's penalty soon put Exeter back in the lead. Slade's influence was crucial, as he also set up Josh Iosefa-Scott for the final try, securing Exeter's first Premiership win of the season.

The victory lifted Exeter to ninth in the table, two points clear of Newcastle Falcons, while Gloucester missed the opportunity to enter the top four for the new year. The match was played in front of a sold-out crowd of 15,000 at Sandy Park, reflecting the strong support for the domestic game in England.

Key performers for Exeter included Henry Slade, who led the backline with intent and vision, and other notable players such as Roots, Fisilau, and Tommy Wyatt. Gloucester's skipper, Ludlow, also had a commendable game, particularly around the breakdown.

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