Exeter Chiefs bounced back from their 66-14 thrashing in the Premiership Cup final to defeat Sale Sharks 26-14 at Sandy Park. The bonus-point victory moves them into the play-off places, with Sam Skinner and Jack Woodburn crossing for tries as Exeter dominated possession and territory in the opening exchanges.

Sale hit back through Arno van Rhyn after sustained pressure, but Exeter reasserted control with Woodburn's second try before halftime. The Sharks briefly threatened when Francois du Preez scored from a dominant scrum early in the second half, but Exeter sealed the win when Olly Woodburn finished a slick move involving Skinner and Sam Skinner.

The final six minutes were played with uncontested scrums after Sale's replacement prop Willgriff John was stretchered off with a head injury, leaving them without front-row cover. Exeter nearly added a fifth try when Skinner intercepted a pass but was caught short of the line, though the bonus point was already secured.