Brave Chiefs win plaudits but no points for efforts
In the days of the Roman Coliseum, it was tradition that you would fight to the death, upholding your honour at all times , writes Mark Stevens.
Well, Exeter Chiefs certainly did that at Bath's Recreation Ground, but their brave endeavours brought them only plaudits, rather than crucial league points and a prized scalp, following an absorbing Aviva Premiership encounter.
Returning to league action following their testing exertions in the Heineken Cup, the Chiefs seemed somewhat off pace in the opening exchanges and Gary Gold's side duly made them pay as they claimed early scores through backs Ben Williams and Kyle Eastmond.
Fly-half Stephen Donald punted over the remainder of Bath's first half points, whilst in reply the visitors countered with a try from prop Brett Sturgess.
The second half, however, was a much different affair and having seemingly shaken off the effects of their Heineken hangover, Rob Baxter's men were indeed much improved as they claimed further reward through Ignacio Mieres and Gareth Steenson.
It was, however, a crucial third try from Bath's very own gladiator, Francois Louw, which proved decisive in the grand scheme of things. His crucial touchdown midway through the half was a clever sucker punch, just as the Chiefs were winding themselves up for the end kill.
Although Exeter huffed and puffed in pursuit of success, Bath - who had centre Dan Hipkiss dismissed for a second yellow card late on - continue to hold the Indian sign over their nearest and dearest.
For a full match report go to: http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/latest-headlines?item=1913
Bath: N Abendanon; K Eastmond, D Hipkiss, B Williams, T Biggs; S Donald, M Claassens; P James, L Mears (B Sharman 73), D Wilson (A Perenise 58); D Day (S Hooper 56), D Attwood; C Fearns (W Skuse 11-20, 26), F Louw (capt, N Catt 68), B Skirving. Replacements: M McMillan, H Agulla.
Tries - Williams, Eastmond, Louw; Conversion - Donald; Penalties - Donald (2)
Yellow Card: Hipkiss
Red Card: Hipkiss
Chiefs: L Arscott (I Whitten 54); G Camacho, P Dollman, J Shoemark, M Jess; G Steenson (I Mieres 54), H Thomas (K Barrett 73); B Sturgess (B Moon 64), S Alcott (C Whitehead 52), C Rimmer; D Mumm, J Hanks (A Muldowney 54); T Johnson, J Scaysbrook, R Baxter (capt). Replacements: C Budgen, D Ewers.
Tries - Sturgess, Mieres; Conversion - Mieres; Penalty - Steenson
Referee: W Barnes
Touch Judges: P Dix & R Goodliffe
4th Official: D Rose
Attendance: 12,200
UP NEXT FOR THE CHIEFS: v Worcester Warriors (H), Aviva Premiership, Saturday, November 3 (3pm)
