Sam Simmonds scored a try either side of Rhys Priestlands penalty during a grueling first-half before Tom O'Flaherty scored a sensational third for the Chiefs.

A penalty try earned the hosts a bonus-point before Sam Hidalgo-Clyne and Ian Whitten crossed to end the encounter.

Chiefs began well and were ahead after 11 minutes after referee Christophe Ridley played penalty advantage, but the hosts didn't need it as Sam Simmonds dotted down off the back of the scrum. Joe Simmonds added the extras.

Bath bulldozed their way forward and got within 10 metres of the Chiefs line before being awarded a penalty. Rhys Priestland got the Blue, Black and White up and running from the tee.

A replica move of his first score, Exeter Chiefs stored their second through Sam Simmonds following consultation from the TMO. And just three minutes later Exeter had a third. Tom O'Flaherty dashed over for a sensational try. A footballing moment, a huge touch beautifully weighted and the wing pounced over beating Tom de Glanville to the ball. Joe Simmonds converted.

A second-half much like the first for the hosts, with some solid defending coming in from Bath Rugby. But it only took 12 minutes as Ridley went under the sticks for a penalty try. Josh McNally also received a yellow card for collapsing the maul.

The Chiefs then added two late scores, the first from replacement scrum-half Sam Hidalgo-Clyne off the back of the scrum and then veteran Ian Whitten going over from close range.

REACTION

SCORERS

Exeter Chiefs

Tries: Sam Simmonds (11',30'), Tom O'Flaherty (33'), Penalty Try (62'), Sam Hildalgo-Clyne (67'), Ian Whitten (77')

Conversions: Joe Simmonds (12',31', 33'), Jack Walsh (68')

Bath Rugby

Penalties: Rhys Priestland (16')

GALLERY

Match Report | Exeter Chiefs 40 - 3 Bath Rugby

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