Exeter Chiefs gave their fans a late Christmas present with a first win of the 2024/25 Gallagher Premiership at their ninth attempt with a well-earned 22-15 victory over Gloucester Rugby.

England star Henry Slade was central to Exeter ’s victory as he dictated play in the backline as well as kicking seven points and assisting a try for Tamati Tua who was joined on the scoresheet by official player of the match Dan Frost and replacement tighthead Josh Iosefa-Scott. Gloucester came back in the second half and took the lead after tries from Gareth Anscombe and Jamal Ford-Robinson and five points from the boot of Santi Carreras, but they were outwilled by the desperate hosts who sent Sandy Park into raptures at the final whistle as the long wait for a home win was ended.

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Rugby writer Mark Stevens takes a closer look at the individual performances from the Exeter Chiefs players....

15. JOSH HODGE - 7

Brought back into the side following the shoulder injury to Immanuel Feyi-Waboso at Sale last time out. Has clearly taken on board coaches comments about trying to do everything on his own, much more controlled in his play, his lengthy boot and threat with ball in hand remains key points.

14. OLLY WOODBURN - 7

The ‘Aerial King’, not many are better in the Premiership at taking the high ball and this was another game where the winger showcased his talents. Didn’t do too much wrong in both attack or defence, his return to fitness is a major boost for the Chiefs heading into the New Year.

13. BEN HAMMERSLEY - 6

Will benefit hugely from games like this in terms of his overall experience. Nothing too fanciful from the young centre, but you feel he needs to offer more in attack if he is to make real strides forward.

12. TAMATI TUA - 7

Strong enough display from the Kiwi in the Chiefs midfield, he grabbed his maiden Premiership try when he latched onto Slade’s cross-field kick in the first half.

11. TOM WYATT - 7

Switched back onto the wing for this clash, Wyatt’s fancy footwork was evident on numerous occasions, leaving Gloucester scrambling and the Chiefs very much on the front foot.

10. HENRY SLADE - 8

Exeter’s most experienced star shone brightly in this the last game of the year at Sandy Park. Set the tone all with an assured display that the Chiefs have been desperately missing all season.

9. STU TOWNSEND - 7

The scrum-half slot has been a revolving door for much of the season, but the return of Townsend in recent weeks has certainly made a real difference. Ran himself into the ground until he was replaced second half.

1. SCOTT SIO - 7

Solid in the set-piece all game and weighed in with some notable carries, particularly in the first half. His experience at the highest level will be pivotal for the Chiefs during the second half of the season.

2. DAN FROST - 8

Gave the Chiefs the perfect start with his early try and was an ever-willing runner throughout. The hard-working hooker was immense in the loose, whilst his set-piece work didn’t disappoint.

3. MARCUS STREET - 7

Enjoyed a decent afternoon at tight-head with his simple, yet effective on-field approach. Does a lot of unseen work and can be proud of a decent enough display.

4. DAFYDD JENKINS - 8

Oh how the Chiefs have missed their Welsh talisman this season. Not only does he bring a work-rate and physical edge to the Exeter eight, but his leadership and ability to inspire those around him remain key facets of his game.

5. RICHARD CAPSTICK - 6

Still not convinced he is a second-row long-term. He continues to work hard around the park, whilst is a worthy line-out option. He did, however, butcher a golden scoring opportunity in the first half.

6. ETHAN ROOTS - 9

A relentless display from the England international, who is determined to remind Steve Borthwick of his abilities having slipped out of the international picture. Displays like this will certainly aid his cause.

7. JACQUES VERMEULEN - 7

The South African was his usual 100% self, throwing himself into collisions. Saw a good scoring chance evade him towards the end of the first half, but other than that can be proud of his performance.

8. GREG FISILAU - 8

Was particularly effective breaking off the back of scrums with ball in hand. Another who left everything out on the pitch and pushed Frost hard for the billing as star man.

Replacements

16. JACK INNARD - 6 (Rep Frost 64) - Didn’t too much wrong in the time he was on the field.

17. WILL GOODRICK-CLARKE - 7 (Rep Sio 50) - Decent input off the bench, picking up from where Sio left off.

18. JOSH IOSEFA-SCOTT - 7 (Rep Street 50) - Grabbed the all-important match-winning score, again provide a carrying threat, whilst also holding up the scrum.

19. RUSI TUIMA (Rep Jenkins 70) - N/A

20. FRANCO MOLINA - 7 (Rep Capstick 64) - Surprised he didn’t start the contest, but when he did come on made a real impression -

21. TOM CAIRNS - 6 (Rep Townsend 64) - Steady enough without making any great shakes. 6

22. WILL HAYDON-WOOD - 6 (Rep Woodburn 71) - Quick cameo which included burst in build up to final try.

23. ZACK WIMBUSH - 7 (Rep Tua 64) - Would like to see more of him during the second half of the season, a player with real potential. His size, strength and pace making him quite the attacking force.