Exeter Chiefs went top of National League 1 for 24 hours after holding off a spirited Doncaster fightback to win at Castle Park.

The Chiefs had a commanding 34-12 lead at half-time thanks to four tries in nine minutes from Chris Budgen, Matt Jess, Nic Sestaret, and Paul McKenzie.

But Doncaster came back at them in the second half with a hat-trick of tries from ex-Cornish Pirate back Wes Davies.

Chiefs prop John Andress was sent off after a scuffle in the 57th minute.

But Exeter held on to become the first team to win at Doncaster since the Chiefs themselves won there in April.

Exeter, who replaced Leeds at the top for 24 hours, can now go back top again next Saturday when they face struggling Esher at home (1500 GMT).

And this time, with Leeds (49-18 winners at home to Plymouth Albion on Sunday) likely to get a tough test at third-placed Nottingham, the Chiefs may even stand a chance of staying there.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version