Well, how about that for a season opener? Gloucester absolutely exploded at Sandy Park on the first weekend of the new Prem season, stunning Exeter Chiefs with a massive 45-24 victory. This wasn’t just a win, it was a statement, especially after the Cherry and Whites only managed one road win all of last term, limping home in eighth place. They matched that dismal road win tally immediately, and it felt electric.
Gloucester Throws Down the Gauntlet with Early Season Fire
Talk about a turnaround! After a miserable campaign where Gloucester finished eighth and hadn’t touched the play-offs in seven years, this performance screams renewed belief. New captain and Wales skipper, Dewi Lake, was absolutely massive, leading the charge with two of their seven tries. The summer arrival made his presence felt, even turning down a kick at goal at one point to secure a bonus point try by halftime! Winger Ben Loader was a menace too, bagging two tries himself and showcasing some seriously impressive footwork. That dude was just one shy of his entire Prem tally from last season already. Seb Atkinson contributed with a try after winning a foot race, and Will Joseph delivered what the broadcast called the “try of the game,” a brilliant solo effort from his own half where he burst through and around three defenders. Even 18-year-old winger Junior Denny got in on the action with a debut try on the last play, sealing Gloucester’s first win in Devon since 2015. The acquisition of Wales pair Lake and Jac Morgan clearly injected some serious confidence into this squad.
Exeter’s Rude Awakening Despite Summer Hopes
For Exeter, this was a brutal welcome back to the Prem. They finished as runners-up last season, losing to Northampton Saints in the June final, and had enjoyed a thrilling spring and summer with an unexpected run to Twickenham. With new American investment at Sandy Park, hopes were sky-high for Rob Baxter’s team, but this was a rude awakening. Josh Iosefa-Scott and Ethan Roots snagged first-half scores for the Chiefs, with Roots finding himself on the wing for a charging try. Stephen Varney and replacement hooker Louie Gulley, who also scored a debut try, ensured Exeter at least grabbed a bonus point. But even with visiting flanker Freddie Thomas getting sin-binned for the final 10 minutes, the Chiefs couldn’t stop the Gloucester onslaught.
This victory is massive for Gloucester, an immediate jolt of confidence that they needed after recent struggles. For Exeter, it’s a tough lesson on opening weekend. They’ve got a lot to reflect on heading into the next match, and you can bet Gloucester is feeling like anything is possible after this kind of dominant start.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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