Shaun Goosen takes a look back at Round 15 of the Gallagher Premiership which saw Exeter tighten their grip on the title while Bristol and Wasps continue to impress.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
Sparkling Exeter power past Sale at the AJ Bell
The Sale Sharks were looking to get back to winning ways after their defeat to Harlequins at the Stoop last week by beating the devastating Exeter Chiefs at the AJ Bell Stadium on Friday. But despite leading 14-10 at the break, Sale conceded three tries in 13-minutes to ultimately go down 32-22. They’ve now dropped to fourth place and are in serious danger of missing out on the top four with the likes of Bath and Northampton just a point back.
For the log-leading Chiefs, it was another outstanding day at the office as they marvelled with their typically flamboyant style of footy to take a seventh try-scoring bonus-point along with an 11th win. It would take a brave man to bet against them going all the way this season.
Bristol, Wasps extend winning runs
The weekend also saw second-placed Bristol and third-placed Wasps maintain their winning streaks, pushing out to seven and five victories respectively. The former were helped in part by a colossal showing from new signing Semi Radradra, who was simply unplayable against Gloucester at the Kingsholm in the Bears’ 33-24 win. The Fijian centre made 130 meters from 16 carries, beat four defenders, scored one try and assisted two more. Seriously, the dude is a freak.
Wasps, who leapfrogged Sale this weekend, comfortably beat Worcester 32-17 at the Ricoh Arena; inflicting an eighth-straight loss on the visitors in the process. They did well to claw back from 11-points down and, despite a mixed start to the season, are looking good ahead of the playoffs.
Sarries see off Quins in London derby
Playing in his 200th game for the club, Owen Farrell kicked a star-studded Saracens side to a 38-24 victory over London rivals Harlequins. The England captain, making his first appearance since March’s Six Nations win over Wales, picked up 18 points via four penalties and three conversions as his team romped home at the Allianz.
Despite their imminent relegation, Sarries are clearly looking to make the most of their allotted time in the Premiership and don’t seem intent on going down without a fight. Saturday’s win marked their 10th of the season.
Round 15 Results
Sale Sharks 22-32 Exeter Chiefs
Gloucester 24-33 Bristol Bears
London Wasps 32-17 Worcester Warriors
Saracens 38-24 Harlequins
London Irish 03-27 Northampton Saints
Leicester Tigers 16-38 Bath
