Winning run continues for on-form Exeter Chiefs

Exeter Chiefs maintained pole position in this season’s Gallagher Premiership, notching up a fourth win on the bounce against rivals Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park.

Facing off against familiar foes - last season the two clubs met on four occasions - Rob Baxter’s side were given their stiffest examination of the new season yet by a resilient Falcons outfit.

Sam Simmonds, surprisingly left out of this week’s 36-man England training squad, gave a timely reminder to coach Eddie Jones of his powers, bagging two of Exeter’s three tries on the night.

He not only took his seasonal tally to five touchdowns, but added further to his Premiership tally of 20 tries in 28 matches.

Brother Joe converted both his scores, as well as a penalty, while Gareth Steenson bagged the extras to Matt Kvesic’s crucial second half score.

In reply, the Falcons - who offered plenty throughout - countered with tries from Zach Kibirgie and Johnny Williams, while Toby Flood kicked the remainder of their points.

Having made nine changes to his side for last weekend’s visit of Sale Sharks, Baxter again tinkered with his winning formula, recalling Kvesic and Sam Simmonds to the back-row after bouts of illness, Ian Whitten was given the nod in the centre, while Wales and British Lions winger Alex Cuthbert was handed his first start.

The Falcons, meanwhile, also made changes with Adam Brocklebank handed a maiden Premiership start in the front-row, Gary Graham started in a reshuffled back-row, while Kibirige was a last-minute addition, coming in during the warm-up for Alex Tait on the right flank.

For the full match report, go to https://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/news/falcons-17-chiefs-24