Exeter Chiefs claimed a 29-20 victory over Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Premiership, securing their position at the top of the table. Despite Rich Lane’s impressive hat-trick for Bristol, Exeter’s strong performance propelled them to the top spot. The match saw tries from Rus Tuima, Ehren Painter, Tommy Wyatt, and Josh Iosefa-Scott for Exeter, with Henry Slade converting three kicks and adding a penalty. Lane’s hat-trick kept Bristol in the game, but a late penalty from Slade sealed the win for Exeter. The victory puts Exeter one point clear at the top of the table, while Bristol remains in sixth place. The game showcased Exeter’s early dominance, with Tuima scoring the opening try in the third minute. However, Bristol quickly responded with two tries from Lane, putting them in the lead. Painter’s try and Wyatt’s first Premiership try regained the advantage for Exeter. Lane’s third try made it a close game, but Iosefa-Scott’s late try secured a bonus point for Exeter. Despite a missed penalty from James Williams in the final minutes, Bristol was unable to secure a losing bonus point. Exeter’s director of rugby, Rob Baxter, praised the team’s performance, highlighting their ability to secure five points in a gritty game. Bristol’s director of rugby, Pat Lam, commended his team’s effort but expressed disappointment in not getting any points from the match. The victory for Exeter showcased their dominance in the scrum and their ability to make crucial decisions under pressure. Both teams displayed their determination in a tight game, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on opportunities. Exeter’s starting lineup included Wyatt, Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Hendrickson, Woodburn, Skinner, Cairns, Sio, Yeandle, Painter, Tuima, Pearson, Roots, Vermeulen, and Vintcent. Bristol’s lineup featured Lane, Heward, Vakatawa, Janse van Rensburg, Ibitoye, Sheedy, Marmion, Grahamslaw, Capon, Kloska, Caulfield, Batley, Dun, Harding, and Bradbury.