Exeter join away fans segregation debate, name team for Newcastle

Two-time champions Exeter Chiefs have weighed in on the recent debate about segregating away fans at Gallagher Premiership matches. The Devon-based club, who have been part of the English top flight since 2010, have expressed alarm that steps could be taken to prevent fans from different clubs mingling freely at matches, including at Sandy Park.

A statement read: “Following reporting of away ends at Premiership rugby matches, Exeter Rugby Club would like to clarify our position on this subject. It has never been discussed nor suggested that fans should be segregated at matches.

“The integration of two groups of supporters is one of the cornerstones of our sport, and there is no plan that would endanger this key value.

“Seeing visiting fans from across the country, enjoying a famous Sandy Park pasty and a pint with our own home supporters is one of the great experiences on a match day and under no circumstances will this be jeopardised.

“The only discussions into which we have entered, are suggestions that we make it easier for supporter groups to purchase tickets in a block so that they might enjoy the atmosphere collectively and sit together if they should choose to do so.”

Exeter chairman/CEO Tony Rowe added: “Here at Exeter, we will never allow fans to be segregated. I understand the concerns of supporters who have been alarmed at this, but I would like to assure everyone that this has never been a discussion on the table.

“One of the highlights of any rugby match day experience is to integrate with fans from the opposing team, sharing a beer and a conversation about the match, we will continue to celebrate and facilitate this great tradition.”

Winless after four rounds of matches in the 2024/25 Premiership, Exeter are at bottom club Newcastle on Friday night with an XV showing just one change from last weekend’s high scoring Sandy Park loss to Bristol. Ethan Roots will start at blindside with Jacques Vermeulen missing out.

EXETER (vs Newcastle, Friday): 15. Josh Hodge; 14. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 13. Olly Woodburn, 12. Joe Hawkins, 11. Paul Brown-Bampoe; 10. Harvey Skinner, 9. Sam Maunder; 1. Scott Sio, 2. Jack Yeandle (capt), 3. Marcus Street, 4. Rusi Tuima, 5. Franco Molina, 6. Ethan Roots, 7. Richard Capstick, 8. Ross Vintcent. Reps: 16. Jack Innard, 17. Kwenzo Blose, 18. Josh Iosefa-Scott, 19. Christ Tshiunza, 20. Greg Fisilau, 21. Tom Cairns, 22. Will Haydon-Wood, 23. Ben Hammersley.