Chiefs march to victory with first-half blitz

A brilliant barnstorming first-half display from Exeter Chiefs saw them rattle off five unanswered tries in the Premiership Cup at Gloucester.

The Chiefs set about recording their third consecutive bonus-point win in this competition at a stunned Kingsholm, with the home side completed overwhelmed by some dazzling attacking rugby from the visitors.

Exeter quickly set out their intentions, Josh Hodge creating territorial pressure with a typically precise kick and a clever tap-and-go routine opened the gaps for Rusi Tuima to power over the line, Hodge adding the extras.

The Chiefs kept up the momentum with another powerful drive and Gloucester were unable to regroup in time, Greg Fisilau bursting through the gainline to flick a lovely pass wide for winger Will Haydon-Wood to score. Hodge again did the honours from the tee.

Gloucester responded with their one moment of quality in the first period, only to be denied a try by the TMO, and Exeter were swift in compounding the home misery, Tuima causing more mayhem before Will Rigg forced his way over the try line. Hodge converted for a 0-21 score.

As well as his imperious work with the boot, Hodge was feeling equally confident with ball in hand, and scored the try of the game to effectively seal victory. Running from his own 22, Hodge exchanged passes with Stu Townsend before diving over for a brilliant score.

And there was still time for a fifth try before half-time. Richard Capstick plucked the ball from a line-out, hooker Dan Frost took the ball at the back of a maul before releasing the jubilant Townsend to make it 0-31 to the Chiefs.

The second period was far more measured and Gloucester did grab a consolation try but this was a Friday evening of fun for the Exeter Chiefs and their fans.