Richie's farewell performance helps steer Chiefs into the Heineken Cup again next season

Exeter Chiefs 40             Gloucester     39

Richard Baxter brought the curtain down on his illustrious career with the Exeter Chiefs by playing a leading role in his side’s final-day Aviva Premiership victory over Gloucester.

After 16 stand-out years at the Devon club, the all-action forward said his goodbyes with not only one last hurrah in the black jersey, but by also helping steer the Chiefs into the Heineken Cup again next season.

In a pulsating encounter at a packed Sandy Park, the Chiefs notched up their 12th league win of the campaign to ensure them of a crucial top six finish.

A penalty try, plus further touchdowns from locks Dean Mumm and Damian Welch paved the way for the home side, whose remainder of points came from the laser-guided boot of fly-half Gareth Steenson.

In reply, Nigel Davies’ side helped themselves to five tries in total through Jonny May, Charlie Sharples, Henry Trinder, Rob Cook and Freddie Burns, the latter of whom also weighed in with four conversions and two penalties.
However, it was Steenson’s last-minute penalty that proved the key difference in an absorbing match.

For Baxter it was the perfect send-off, whilst for the Chiefs he leaves behind, already they can look forward to competing amongst Europe’s elite again next season.

Attendance: 10,744

Match summary by Mark Stevens

For the full report click here.

Pictures: Exeter Rugby Club / Pinnacle Photo Agency