Stars of the future secure Chiefs win against Harlequins
It's been the breeding ground of future stars at Exeter for many a year and today the Chiefs were able to unearth some new sparkle as they cemented their position at the top of Pool One in this season's Premiership Rugby Cup with victory over visiting Harlequins.
In a dominant display from Ricky Pellow's side, they not only preserved their unbeaten record in the competition this term, but they underlined the quality that exists within the playing ranks at Sandy Park.
Whereas many Premiership rivals took the opportunity to re-introduce a number of their top guns ahead of next week's return to top-flight action, the Chiefs stuck with those who have served them so well in the opening two rounds of battle.
Keen to give youth it's chance to shine on the big stage, those entrusted with the jersey once again did not disappoint. Billy Keast, Marcus Street, Josh Caulfield, Richard Capstick, Harvey Skinner and Alfie Petch all put in decent shifts, emphasising once more the incessant conveyor belt of talent that exists within the Chiefs ranks.
Having opened up with a draw at Newcastle Falcons and then a victory at home to Bath a week ago, the Chiefs were banking on home advantage to pay dividends once more as they looked to maintain pole position in Pool One of the competition.
As expected, coach Pellow stuck with a large nucleus of the players who had featured in the opening two rounds. However, there were changes - including a first start of the season for lock Mitch Lees, as well as recalls to the starting line-up for Alex Cuthbert and Stuart Townsend, who was captaining the Chiefs for the first time in his career.
Harlequins, meanwhile, were looking to bounce back from their narrow loss at home to the Falcons on Sunday. They welcomed back a number of key names for the trip to Devon, including young playmaker Smith, as well as Matt Symons, Luke Wallace and Ben Tapuai.
For the full match report, go to: https://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/news/chiefs-29-harlequins-13
