Simmonds at the double as Chiefs stay perfect
Sam Simmonds claimed a first-half double as Exeter Chiefs maintained their 100 per cent start to the Premiership season with a 24-17 win over Newcastle Falcons.
England number eight Simmonds went over following a first-minute score from Zach Kibirige, a late replacement for Alex Tait at Kingston Park on Friday.
Simmonds touched down again when the Falcons were unable to stop a powerful driving maul following a line-out from close range, the back-rower's brother Joe converting for a second time.
Toby Flood's penalty three minutes before the break reduced the deficit to 14-10 and the Falcons were level at 17-17 when he converted a try from Johnny Williams, which was reward for a sustained period of pressure from the home side.
A yellow card for Flood 17 minutes from time proved to be costly, though, Matt Kvesic applying the finish in the left corner following a subsequent catch-and-drive to give last year's runners-up a fourth win out of four.
Newcastle had their chances late on, but had to settle for a losing bonus point as they suffered a third defeat.
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Think it was a great defensive performance by Northampton. They didn't have stage fright in the first half, the Nienaber defense smothered them. They limited Leinster to 15-3 in the first half. It could have been over by then. A great try from Leinster in the start of the second half looked to have sealed it. But Byrne missed another conversion. Northampton started trying little kicks behind the Leinster wingers. Leinster messed one and Smith brilliantly made the conversion. Leinster decided to tighten the game after Byrne missed a straight forward penalty. A few errors got NH into the 22 and they scored and converted with a few minutes left. Another brilliant steal from Lawes saw NH have a final attack which was turned over by Conan. A classic semi final. World record attendance of 82,300. Leinsters 3 week preparation warranted for this one.
Go to commentsJust came back from the game and the atmosphere was amazing. Players stayed afterwards for more than a hour to sign stuff and take photos with fans. Great day out.
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