Woodward's last gasp try steers Gloucester to 28-21 win over Exeter
Jason Woodward (centre) is mobbed by his Gloucester team-mates after scoring the winning try
©PA
Gloucester Rugby 28-21 Exeter Chiefs, Kingsholm
Scorecard
Fullback Jason Woodward scored the decisive try in the added minutes as Gloucester Rugby sealed a thrilling 28-21 win over the defending champions Exeter Chiefs at Kingsholm in the Aviva Premiership 2017/18 season opener on Friday.
Sam Simmons gave a promising start to Exeter Chiefs in the first half with a brace of tries that came in the third and 28th minute and Gareth Steenson slotted the conversions on both the occasions.
However, his efforts were negated by Jeremy Thrush, who responded with a double of his own and Billy Burns' conversion meant the scores were level at 14-14 with the first half coming to an end.
Exeter suffered a setback when Steenson was sin-binned at the start of the second half but Gloucester failed to capitalise on the advantage. Ben Morgan provided breathing space when he strolled past the post in the 55th minute for the Cherry and Whites but Exeter were equal to the task Olly Woodburn crossing over.
The scores continued to be level at 21-21 with the final 10 minutes left and it looked like it was heading for a draw until Woodward scored the decisive try in the added minutes to seal a seven point win for Gloucester.
Gloucester head coach Johan Ackermann was delighted with the outcome.
"We couldn't have asked for a better start. I am grateful for that.
"I am so pleased with the character the guys showed and the effort that went into the game.
"Some individuals had great performances and our set-phase was also good, but it is week one and teams will challenge you every week. You cannot take anything for granted."
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