In a pulsating Gallagher Premiership clash, Exeter Chiefs produced a remarkable second-half fightback to defeat Saracens 30-24 at the StoneX Stadium, reclaiming top spot in the league table.
A Festive Thriller in North London
On a cold, clear afternoon, the league's best defence, Exeter, collided with its most potent attack, Saracens, in a pre-Christmas spectacle. The outcome remained fiercely contested until the final moments, with Henry Slade's last-gasp try securing the vital bonus point that propelled Rob Baxter's side back to the summit, at least temporarily.
Saracens' Fast Start Overturned by Fisilau Brace
Saracens, boasting the league's best attacking record, raced into an early lead. Noah Caluori intercepted a Slade pass to score, before Max Malins crossed in the corner. Despite being reduced to 14 men after a Tom Hooper yellow card, Exeter showed immense character to score 10 unanswered points, including a try from Stephen Varney, to trail just 12-13 at the break.
The home side seemed to have seized control after half-time. A penalty try and a second score from Caluori, his fourth in two games, extended their lead to 24-13. However, the Chiefs' response was swift and decisive.
Exeter's Spirit Seals Historic Victory
The game turned on the powerful carrying of number eight Greg Fisilau, who crashed over for two tries in the space of six minutes to edge Exeter ahead. Saracens had a late chance to level, but Owen Farrell pushed a penalty wide, leaving the door open for Slade to ice the game with a brilliant breakaway score in the dying seconds.
This victory marked Exeter's first win at Saracens in eight years and underscored the resilience director of rugby Rob Baxter is building. "I can sense the foundations of a good side," Baxter said post-match, praising his team's spirit after a frustrating start.
The result leaves the Premiership table incredibly tight heading into the festive period, with both sides firmly in the playoff hunt. The match also highlighted ongoing financial debates within the league, with Baxter noting the need for more clubs and home games to improve sustainability, stating: "The finance comes first at the moment, because it has to for all of us."
