Chiefs understudies pass the test against Quins

Ceri Sweeney crowned his first-ever start in an Exeter Chiefs jersey by helping kick his new club to an opening round victory over holders Harlequins in this season’s LV= Cup. Signed in the summer from Cardiff Blues, the 33-year-old fly-half has had to play the waiting game to get his chance with the in-form Devon outfit – such has been the form of fellow playmakers Gareth Steenson and Henry Slade. However, given his chance to shine in the Anglo-Welsh tournament, Sweeney provided the guiding hand as his 14-point haul helped give the Chiefs the dream start. The former Welsh international slotted four penalties, as well as converting Sireli Naqelevuki’s second half try, as Rob Baxter’s side made it five wins in their last six games. In reply, Harlequins countered with an early try from winger Paul Sackey, but that was their sole reward on a tough afternoon for them in the Westcountry. With matters in the Premiership and Europe put on the back burner for the next fortnight, it was a new-look and refreshed Chiefs side that took to the field for this opening domestic cup encounter. Head coach Baxter and assistant Ali Hepher not only rested themselves for the afternoon, but so did the complete starting line-up from that which won at Sale Sharks in the league last time out. Captain Sweeney (pictured) headed up a string of Chiefs making their first starts for the club – the Welshman was joined from the outset by Greg Bateman, Romana Graham and Don Armand in a powerful Exeter line-up that also included the likes of James Scaysbrook, James Hanks, Kai Horstmann, Naqelevuki and Luke Arscott. Holders Harlequins were also able to parade a powerful looking team for their title defence, even though a number of their more established stars were either being rested, injured or away on international duties. Next up for the Chiefs is Sunday’s forthcoming trip to Bath, a venue where the senior Chiefs have yet to taste victory. However, produce a performance like this and that duck could well be broken in the famous Roman City. Chiefs: L Arscott; J Nowell, S Naqelevuki (T Hendrickson 65), H Slade, J Arnott; C Sweeney (capt), W Chudley; B Moon, G Bateman, A Brown (C Rimmer 53); R Graham (J Phillips 62), J Hanks; D Armand, J Scaysbrook, K Horstmann. Replacements (not used): J Innard, K Davies, W Carrick-Smith, S Townsend, S Blanchet. Try - Naqelevuki; Conversion – Sweeney; Penalties – Sweeney (4) Harlequins: C Walker; P Sackey, T Molenaar, T Casson (M Hopper 59), S Smith; B Botica, K Dickson; M Lambert (D Marfo 72), D Ward (H Allen), W Collier (N Mayhew 61); G Merrick, C Matthews; J Trayfoot (J Chisholm 74), L Wallace (capt), J Clifford (T Guest 16). Replacements (not used): S Stuart, L Grimoldby Try – Sackey Referee: D Richards Attendance: 9,333 UP NEXT FOR THE CHIEFS: v Bath (A), Sunday, November 17 (1pm) See more at: http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/news/chiefs-19-harlequins-5/#sthash.KIq8gy... Pictures: Exeter Rugby Club/Pinnacle Photo Agency