Wales captains Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan inspired Gloucester to a stunning opening-day victory at last season's Gallagher Premiership finalists Exeter, with Lake scoring two tries in a man-of-the-match display.
Lake, making his debut as skipper, led from the front in a performance that had commentators and fans purring. Both players were nominated for the man-of-the-match award, with Lake winning it. TNT Sports pundit Chris Ashton heaped praise on both men, suggesting they had already raised standards at the club and adding: "The two Welsh lads have been absolutely outstanding."
Record win at Sandy Park
Lake was only on the field for 55 minutes but managed 16 carries, 12 tackles, two turnovers and two tries, while he recorded a 100% success rate at the lineout. Gloucester fans and viewers on social media were equally impressed. One said: "Lake and Morgan have transformed them." Another added: "Jac Morgan is absolute class. So many similarities to the great Richard Hill. His work rate is just phenomenal."
The 24-45 result is a statement win for a Gloucester side that has struggled at the wrong end of the table in recent seasons but now looks primed to launch a serious challenge following the arrival of arguably Wales' two best players. The visitors had a bonus point wrapped up by half-time as Lake crossed for his second score just before the break with an excellent finish in the corner that required strength and skill.
Leaders on and off the pitch
Morgan played the entire match and was relentless throughout what was a record win for the club at Sandy Park. Lake said: "My tries are a credit to the boys who do all the hard work in the mauls. I thought we were incredible defensively today. It shows the trust this group is building. We've spoken about mentality a lot. It's been about switching the mindset. We had some tough conversations and it's about carrying on now. That is our minimum standard now."
Gloucester coach George Skivington said of his two Wales stars: "They are probably two of the most humble blokes I've come across. They train extremely hard and they want to do something special in the Premiership. We probably did need some guys to come in who are ready-made leaders. It's more quality of bloke I think. What they are bringing off the field is where their true value is."
It was a far less enjoyable afternoon for some other Wales internationals, however, with Exeter captain Dafydd Jenkins and flanker Kane James on the losing side.
