Chiefs ground Falcons

Exeter Chiefs booked themselves a first-ever European semi-final encounter as they brushed aside Aviva Premiership rivals Newcastle Falcons with a six-try blast at Sandy Park.

Rob Baxter’s side dominated throughout and sealed a last four date with Gloucester in a fortnight’s time thanks to a Penalty Try and further touchdowns from Dave Ewers, Thomas Waldrom (pictured), Byron McGuigan, Sam Hill and Dean Mumm.

Fly-half Henry Slade weighed in with a further 14 points before Gareth Steenson maintained the scoring sequence with two late conversions for the hosts.

The Falcons did their best to try and contain Devon’s finest, but it was to no avail. Chris Harris claimed a second half try, whilst Tom Catterick landed a conversion and two penalties to complete the scoring.

Having advanced through to the last eight with just one blot on their copybook – that was away to Bayonne back in October – the Chiefs were looking to maintain their impressive European form against the visiting Falcons.

With a last four spot firmly up for grabs, it was little surprise that Baxter opted to field a powerful army of talent against the North East outfit. Ben Moon and Tomas Francis returned in the front-row from the side that were defeated by Leicester Tigers the previous week, whilst behind Tom James and Byron McGuigan were also included as injuries ruled out Jack Nowell and Phil Dollman.

That, however, was not the only change to the Chiefs as an injury to Damian Welch in the warm-up meant the home side were forced into a late change. Into the fray came Ben White with Sam Skinner added to the bench.

The Falcons, beaten 46-17 on their last visit to Sandy Park, were at full-strength and included in their ranks the dangerous Sinoti Sinoti for the first time this season in Europe, as well as experienced stars such as Scott Lawson, Kieran Brookes and skipper Will Welch.

Final score: Chiefs 48 Falcons 13

For the full report see: http://exeterchiefs.co.uk/news/chiefs-48-falcons-13/