Exeter Chiefs edged out in Gloucester thriller to damage play-off hopes
Disappointing day for Exeter Chiefs in the Gallagher Rugby Premiership
Gloucester produced their finest league display in recent months to withstand a fierce second-half fightback from Exeter Chiefs and secure a dramatic 34–31 victory at Kingsholm.
Despite conceding an early try to Ross Vintcent, the hosts dominated a breathless first half, racing to a bonus point through tries from Tomos Williams, Will Trenholm, and a brace from Max Llewellyn.
Exeter, chasing a crucial result in the play-off race, refused to fold. Scores either side of the interval from Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Greg Fisilau reignited their challenge, and after a second Gloucester try from Trenholm, the visitors surged back into contention.
A penalty try and a late effort from Henry Slade reduced the deficit to just three points, setting up a tense finale as the clock ticked into the red.
With Exeter pressing for a decisive score, the match turned on a moment of indiscipline. Flanker Ethan Roots was shown a 20-minute red card for striking a Gloucester player in the face, allowing Williams to kick the ball into touch and seal a hard-earned victory.