Simmonds at the double as Chiefs stay perfect

Sam Simmonds claimed a first-half double as Exeter Chiefs maintained their 100 per cent start to the Premiership season with a 24-17 win over Newcastle Falcons.

England number eight Simmonds went over following a first-minute score from Zach Kibirige, a late replacement for Alex Tait at Kingston Park on Friday.

Simmonds touched down again when the Falcons were unable to stop a powerful driving maul following a line-out from close range, the back-rower’s brother Joe converting for a second time.

Toby Flood’s penalty three minutes before the break reduced the deficit to 14-10 and the Falcons were level at 17-17 when he converted a try from Johnny Williams, which was reward for a sustained period of pressure from the home side.

A yellow card for Flood 17 minutes from time proved to be costly, though, Matt Kvesic applying the finish in the left corner following a subsequent catch-and-drive to give last year’s runners-up a fourth win out of four.

FULL TIME: @FalconsRugby 17 @ExeterChiefs 24

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— Exeter Chiefs (@ExeterChiefs) September 21, 2018

Newcastle had their chances late on, but had to settle for a losing bonus point as they suffered a third defeat.

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