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Prem Leaders Northampton Edge Exeter 35-28 in Thriller

BBC Sport •
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Prem leaders Northampton Saints secured a dramatic 35-28 victory over Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park, with Fin Smith's last-gasp try sealing the win. The match featured eight tries and constant momentum swings, with Exeter finishing with 14 men after two yellow cards. Northampton's bonus-point win strengthens their position at the top of the Premiership table.

Exeter raced to a 14-7 lead after 15 minutes through tries from Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Will Rigg, and Campbell Ridl. However, Northampton gradually took control, with Alex Mitchell and Ollie Sleightholme scoring before halftime to level the game. The visitors' pressure eventually told as George Furbank and Henry Pollock crossed while Exeter were down to 13 men.

Despite Paul Brown-Bampoe's late try bringing Exeter level, Smith's brilliance in the final seconds secured victory for the Saints. Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter admitted his side's errors cost them, while Northampton's Phil Dowson praised his team's character and resilience. The result leaves Northampton top of the Premiership, while Exeter remain fourth in the standings.