Chiefs thrash Bristol in Premiership cup opener

Match Report: Exeter Chiefs 75, Bristol Bears 0

Exeter Chiefs dismantled a lethargic Bristol team in the opening match of the Premiership rugby cup at Sandy Park.

Although rugby fans focus on France and the opening matches of the Rugby World Cup, here in Devon, Exeter Chiefs players turned their attention to the first fixture of their season. A Premiership Rugby Cup clash against west country rivals Bristol Bears.

Spirits are high entering this tournament again, as Exeter are the reigning Champions after beating London Irish in Brentford earlier this year. 

Exeter Chiefs started the match in a spectacular fashion, scoring twice within seven minutes! The first try came in the first minute courtesy of flanker Jacques Vermeulen, who powered down to give the hosts an early lead.

Exeter’s play in the early stages was promising. Their constant force burdening Bristol Bears, who couldn’t find an answer to their West Country rivals’ strength. The noisy neighbours couldn’t even leave their half with Exeter dominating them. And due to all the pressure, Exeter continued to extend their lead even more. 

Right before the break, Exeter Chiefs fullback, Josh Hodge used his dancing feet to step the Bristol players and score a well-worked try. This try brought the halftime score to Exeter 35, Bristol Bears nil. 

The second half started as well as the first for Exeter, who scored within two minutes courtesy of new lock Matt Postlethwaithe, who used his muscles to get a debut try. 

The work rate from Exeter this afternoon has been immense- they are embarrassing Bristol, and the match has turned into a demolition job. Exeter can’t stop scoring! As well as a fierce attack, Exeter’s defence was indefatigable. Bristol couldn’t get close to their much-needed try line and by the end of the match, the away side couldn’t get a point on the board.

The final score in the opening game of the season was Exeter 75, Bristol 0.

Exeter Chiefs will host Cornish Pirates at Sandy Park next Saturday in the second Premiership rugby cup match of the season.

Match attendance: 8,353