Exeter Chiefs survive Sale Sharks scare at AJ Bell Stadium

Sale Sharks 14-20 Exeter Chiefs, AJ Bell Stadium
Scorecard

Exeter Chiefs survived a late scare from Sale Sharks as they edged them out 14-20 in the 15th round of the Gallagher Premiership at AJ Bell Stadium on Saturday.

The win has seen Exeter Chiefs consolidate their top place with 61 points while Sale Sharks are at eighth place with 34 points.

Gareth Steenson kick-started the proceedings with a fifth minute penalty goal and by the 21st minute they Santiago Cordero played a pivotal role in setting Ollie Devoto over the line. Steenson kicked the conversion as Exeter raced to 12 points.

Rob Baxter's men continue to put pressure on Sale Sharks and their efforts were rewarded with Don Armand crossing over in the 37th minute as Exeter finished the first half with a 0-15 scoreline.

The response from Sale Sharks finally came in the 63rd minute when a Faf de Klerk pass found Sam James as he crossed whitewash in the 63rd minute. De Klerk kicked the conversion but their campaign was made tough following a try from Sean Lonsdale in the 71st minute to make the scoreline 7-20.

A Byron McGuigan's breakaway provided Sale Sharks hope witth Will Cliff dotting down and a conversion from James made it 14-20. However, a head injury to Cliff further dented Sale Sharks' chances as they succumbed to a six point defeat.