Exeter Retain Play-Off Chance With Big Home Win
Exeter could still make the end of season play-offs in the Gallager Premiership after the Vertu Motors-backed side stormed to victory against Harlequins at Sandy Park.
The visitors made the better start in a crucial game for both sides, with Marcus Smith going over in the opening minutes before converting his own try and it would take Exeter until near the 20 minute mark to response.
Henry Slade crossed after a tap penalty and then kicked the conversion, with both sides scoring two further tries before the break; Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Dan John responding to scores from Tyrone Green and Alex Dombrandt.
Going in level at 21-21, Exeter powered ahead for the first time shortly after the break when Harvey Skinner scored from close range to earn a bonus point, with Slade kicking the conversion and then three penalties to earn the Chiefs a solid advantage.
Feyi-Waboso, Skinner and Dafydd Jenkins all added further tries as Exeter stormed clear, although a late score from Louis Lynagh meant the visitors grabbed a bonus point of their own.
The Chiefs are now level on points with Quins in fifth place, and sit two points down on Sale and five behind Bath with just one round of fixtures left to play.
Exeter will head to Leicester looking to try and replicate the 29-10 victory enjoyed at Sandy Park back in December knowing that victory could secure a place in the top four and the chance to compete for a place in the final at Twickenham to go for the title.
That would only be possible if Sale lose to Saracens or if Bath fail to score a bonus point against Northampton, who have already secured a home semi-final in the play-offs.
Looking for a new car near Sandy Park?