Sale Sharks secured a crucial 28-10 victory over Exeter Chiefs at the Salford Community Stadium, extending their impressive home form while leaving the Chiefs still searching for their first win of the season. The result saw Sale climb to fourth in the Premiership, breathing new life into their playoff ambitions, while Exeter remained rooted to the bottom of the table after their eighth consecutive defeat.
The match was played under challenging conditions, with heavy rain and wind making it difficult for either team to play expansive rugby. Despite this, Sale showed their resilience and tactical discipline, relying on a solid kicking game and effective use of territory. Their victory was far from glamorous, but it was effective, and it was enough to secure the maximum five points.
Sale’s home form has been a cornerstone of their success under head coach Alex Sanderson, and this win was their 25th in 27 Premiership home games. While their early season form had been inconsistent, they appeared to be finding their rhythm as the campaign progressed. Sanderson was pleased with the result, acknowledging that while the performance was not perfect, the win was the most important factor. “I’m happy with the five points,” he said after the match. “The lads are frustrated we didn’t capitalise on some territory but I’ve told them to enjoy the win and enjoy Christmas.”
The game began with Exeter taking a 3-0 lead through a penalty from Henry Slade, but Sale quickly responded. Despite some early missed opportunities, they took control as the first half wore on. A well-executed move saw Luke James score the opening try, and just before the break, Tom Carpenter capitalized on a break from halfway to extend Sale’s lead to 14-3. Rob du Preez converted both tries, and Sale were firmly in control heading into the second half.
Exeter, despite showing some improvement, struggled to break down Sale’s defense and were punished for their lack of creativity. Early in the second half, Sale were awarded a penalty try after Exeter’s Dafydd Jenkins was sent to the sin-bin for a foul in the scrum. This try pushed Sale’s lead to 21-3, leaving Exeter with little hope of mounting a comeback.
The Chiefs’ frustrations were evident as they continued to battle the conditions, but their lack of attacking threat meant they could not capitalize on any possession. They did manage to get on the scoreboard late in the game, with Jimmy Roots scoring a try, but it was little more than a consolation.
Sale, however, were determined to finish the game with a bonus-point win. In the final minutes, Jonny Hill, playing against his former club, crossed the line for Sale’s fourth try, securing the bonus point and sealing the victory. The Sharks’ clinical approach in difficult conditions highlighted their growing confidence and their ability to seize opportunities when they arose.
For Exeter, the loss was another blow in what has been a tough season. They remain winless and are now facing a significant battle to avoid relegation. Their lack of attacking cohesion and failure to convert pressure into points were key factors in their defeat. Despite the effort, they were unable to match Sale’s accuracy and discipline in such challenging conditions.
The win for Sale is a significant one, not just for the points, but for the momentum it provides as they head into the Christmas period. With their home form looking solid, they will need to improve their performances away from home if they are to maintain their playoff push. However, for now, they can take pride in another dominant home display, while Exeter’s struggles continue to deepen.
Sale’s victory was a testament to their ability to adapt to difficult conditions and make the most of their chances. With George Ford’s kicking game and a solid team effort, they were able to secure a crucial win that keeps their playoff hopes alive. For Exeter, the defeat leaves them with much to ponder as they search for their first victory of the season.
