Gloucester dented Exeter’s playoff aspirations with a hard-fought 34-31 victory in a 10-try spectacle at Kingsholm. Max Llewellyn and Will Trenholm both crossed twice as the home side secured only their third league win of the season, moving them up to eighth in the table.
Match Overview
Almost a year after Exeter conceded 79 points at the same venue, this defeat was less severe but could prove costly as the playoffs approach. The Chiefs slipped to fourth place after back-to-back league losses, with four rounds remaining. Gloucester led 26-12 at half-time and withstood a late fightback to claim a deserved win.
Key Performances
Llewellyn opened the scoring with a try against the grain, and Tomos Williams added a second after slicing through defenders. Ben Loader set up Llewellyn’s second try before Exeter responded through Manny Feyi-Waboso’s brilliant solo effort. Trenholm crashed over from close range to secure a bonus point after 32 minutes.
In the second half, Greg Fisilau scored for Exeter after Feyi-Waboso’s powerful run, but Trenholm’s second try put Gloucester 34-19 ahead. A penalty try and Henry Slade’s score made it tight, but Gloucester held on.
Disciplinary and Injury Concerns
Exeter’s Ethan Roots received a last-minute red card for retaliation, potentially ruling him out of the Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster. The Chiefs also lost winger Paul Brown-Bampoe to a head injury, and centre Len Ikitau looked rusty on his first appearance since Christmas.
Quotes and Reaction
Gloucester director of rugby George Skivington praised his side’s emotional response after last week’s heavy defeat, saying: “It was all about showing up. If you’re emotionally there you’ve got a chance.” Exeter’s Rob Baxter acknowledged their sluggish first-half performance was “a bit of a concern” and awaits news on Roots’ availability.
