Chiefs claim maiden Heineken Cup victory over the Scarlets

The European escapades of the Exeter Chiefs hit new heights in Wales as Rob Baxter’s side claimed their maiden Heineken Cup victory against the Scarlets.

Full-time Score: Scarlets: 16 / Chiefs: 22.

Haydn Thomas’ early try, alongside a 17-point haul from fly-half Gareth Steenson, ensured another piece of history for the Devon club, who are clearly relishing dining at the top table with the elite of the European game.

The Scarlets countered with a penalty try and kicks from Rhys Priestland and Aled Thomas, but it was never enough in a hard-fought encounter at the Parc Y Scarlets.

Fresh from victories in their five previous league and cup fixtures, Baxter was still content to tinker with his winning formula as he made six changes to the side that saw off London Wasps 30-23 last time out. Four of those switches came up front where there were starts for Simon Alcott, Hoani Tui, Damian Welch and Tom Johnson; whilst behind international stars Sireli Naqelevuki and Gonzalo Camacho were also included from the outset.

Likewise, the Scarlets were also able to make over a handful of changes as they welcomed back into their fold a plethora of household names from international duty, including skipper Jonathan Davies, Matthew Rees, Tavis Knoyle and the deadly Priestland.

Scarlets: D Newton; L Williams, J Davies (capt), S Williams, A Fenby; R Priestland (A Thomas 48), A Davies (T Knoyle 62); P John (S Hopkins 77), M Rees (K Owens 52) , S Lee (J Adriaanse 13); G Earle (S Timani 52), R Kelly; A Shingler (J Snyman 67), J Edwards, K Murphy.

Replacements: G Maule.

Chiefs: L Arscott; G Camacho, S Naqelevuki (I Whitten 55), J Shoemark (I Mieres 72), M Jess (B Sturgess 69-76); G Steenson, H Thomas (K Barrett 12); B Sturgess (B Moon 58), S Alcott (N Clark 55), H Tui (C Rimmer 58); T Hayes (capt), D Welch (D Mumm 55); T Johnson (A Muldowney 72), J Scaysbrook, R Baxter.

Referee: M Raynal (FRFU)

Touch Judges: J Lamirand and J Luc Rebollal

Attendance: 7,512

For the full match report, visit http://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/news/scarlets-16-chiefs-22/

UP NEXT FOR THE CHIEFS: v Scarlets (H), Heineken Cup, Saturday, 15th December (3.40pm)