Chiefs on the Tigers' tail

Not for the first time in their illustrious history, Leicester Tigers played the role of ‘party poopers’ as they came from behind to sink hosts Exeter Chiefs.

As Devon’s finest opened their doors for the first time since the multi-million pound redevelopment of Sandy Park this summer, it was the boot of England international Freddie Burns that ultimately guided his side to success in Devon.

The summer signing from Gloucester has wasted little time in settling into his new surroundings and his 11-point haul, together with tries from Anthony Allen and Ben Youngs, plus a late Owen Williams penalty, proved just enough for Richard Cockerill’s side.

The Chiefs, to their credit, played their part in an absorbing contest and they were rewarded with first half tries from Dave Ewers (above) and Hadyn Thomas. However, not even Gareth Steenson’s metronomic boot could save them as they fell just short of their target.

Having followed up an unbeaten pre-season programme with a thumping 52-0 victory at London Welsh, Baxter felt little need to tinker with his winning formula from that which had started the season so well at the Kassam Stadium.

Indeed, the sole change came on the bench where Damian Welch was fit to return to action, taking the place of Don Armand. Meanwhile, the Tigers – who started their season with a 36-17 victory at home to Newcastle Falcons – made five changes to their line-up as they brought Mathew Tait and Anthony Allen into the back division with Tom Youngs, Geoff Parling and Robert Barbieri added up front.

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