Exeter Chiefs stun Saracens with late fightback to go top of the Premiership

Exeter Chiefs produced a remarkable late comeback to beat Saracens at StoneX Stadium, scoring three tries in the closing stages to secure a dramatic victory and move top of the Gallagher Premiership.

Trailing by 11 points with little time remaining, Exeter turned the match on its head as Greg Fisilau crossed twice in quick succession before Henry Slade sealed the win with the final play of a pulsating contest. Slade finished with 15 points, while Owen Farrell’s missed late penalty proved costly for the hosts.

The Chiefs led narrowly at half-time after Stephen Varney’s try cancelled out earlier scores from Noah Caluori and Max Malins. Saracens regained control in the second half through Caluori’s second try and a penalty try, putting them on course for a fourth win of the season.

Saracens had started brightly, capitalising on a loose pass from Slade as Caluori ran in unchallenged, before Malins finished a slick line-out move. Exeter’s task was made harder when Tom Hooper was sin-binned for a high tackle, but the visitors stayed in contention.

A lengthy TMO review preceded Varney’s try, created by Campbell Ridl on his Premiership debut, though Ridl was later sent to the bin himself for a deliberate knock-on that resulted in Saracens’ penalty try.

Caluori completed a fine individual display with his second score late on, but Exeter refused to relent. Fisilau powered over from a maul and then broke through the defence to edge the Chiefs ahead. After Exeter held up a Saracens drive and Farrell missed from the tee, Slade intercepted to race clear and complete a 30-24 victory.