Exeter Chiefs Climb to Third as Northampton Saints Survive Thriller Against Rebranded Newcastle Red Bulls

Exeter Chiefs secure a bonus-point win over Sale Sharks, and Northampton Saints edge a one-point thriller against Newcastle in the Premiership.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 24, 2026, 6:13 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Chiefs Overcome Sale in Devon Sunshine

Exeter Chiefs have boosted their post season aspirations by moving into third place on the Premiership table following a 26,14 win over Sale Sharks. The Chiefs started with clinical efficiency at Sandy Park, scoring two tries in the opening twelve minutes through Stephen Varney and Campbell Ridl. Despite Henry Slade uncharacteristically missing an early conversion and penalty, the England center found his rhythm to lead the backline through a slick series of set piece moves. The victory was marred by a serious injury to Sale’s WillGriff John, which forced the match to conclude with uncontested scrums in the final six minutes.

Sale Sharks Fight Back Despite Resting International Stars

Operating without England duo George Ford and Luke Cowan Dickie, who were on mandatory rest, Sale Sharks demonstrated significant resilience. Captain Ernst van Rhyn sparked a comeback with a try from a quick tap penalty, while Dan du Preez capitalized on a dominant scrum to reduce the deficit to just five points in the second half. However, the Chiefs’ defensive organization held firm, and a late score from winger Paul Brown Bampoe following a cross field kick exchange secured the four try bonus point for the hosts.

Saints Breath Sigh of Relief Against Spirited Red Bulls

At Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton Saints maintained their position at the summit of the log with a narrow 28,27 victory over the Newcastle Red Bulls. The match was a high scoring affair that saw lead changes throughout, with Newcastle threatening a massive upset through tries from Ollie Leatherbarrow and Elliott Obatoyinbo. Discipline proved to be a factor as both sides suffered multiple yellow cards, including a period where Newcastle was reduced to 14 men. A late Tom Litchfield try gave the Saints a necessary cushion, which was just enough to withstand a 79th minute score from former Crusader Tom Christie.