Exeter Chiefs vs Ealing Trailfinders

Match Report

Ealing Trailfinders came up just short against Exeter Chiefs in a tough battle at Sandy Park in the Premiership Cup semi-final.

Tries from Craig Hampson, Reuben Bird-Tulloch and Matt Cornish made sure the Londoners pushed the Premiership side right to the death.

In a game full of momentum swings, it was Ealing Trailfinders who were first on the score sheet. George Worboys slotted a straight forward three points to settle the nerves on his first start for the club.

Trailfinders found themselves on the front foot once again. Knowing the penalty was coming, they put some width on the ball and Tobi Wilson pierced through a gap to create a two-on-one finished by Hampson.

Chiefs hit back through Josh Hodge. They built phase on phase until they entered the 22. The winger noticed the blindside was short of defenders and ran it in underneath the sticks.

The hosts would double their tally as half-time approached. A dominant Chiefs driving line-out proved too strong for the visitors. The penalty try was awarded and Danny Cutmore was sent to the sideline for ten minutes.

Half-time: Exeter Chiefs 14-10 Ealing Trailfinders

Trailfinders came firing out of the blocks in the second half. After building pressure they earned themselves a shot at goal which went just wide.

However, moments later they crossed for their second try of the afternoon. Hampson sniped round the ruck and offloaded to Bird-Tulloch who finished well.

They weren’t done there, Jordy Reid made a line break and cantered in he opposition half. Cornish was waiting out wide to dive over untouched once the ball was recycled.

Chiefs knew they had to act quickly to get back in the game and they did just that. Ethan Roots powered over from close range.

It was Exeter Chiefs who had the final say. They turned the ball over at the breakdown and spread the ball out to Tommy Wyatt who had a clear run to the line from the 22.

Ealing Trailfinders pushed Exeter all the way, but the Premiership side had just enough to get over the line.

Full-time: Exeter Chiefs 28-24 Ealing Trailfinders

Exeter Chiefs:

Tries- Josh Hodge 26, Penalty Try 33, Ethan Roots 62, Tommy Wyatt 69

Conversions- Ben Coen 27, Harvey Skinner 64 70

Ealing Trailfinders:

Tries- Craig Hampson 22, Reuben Bird-Tulloch 46, Matt Cornish 55

Conversions- George Worboys 23, Craig Willis 47 56

Penalties- George Worboys 8

Yellow cards- Danny Cutmore 33