Exeter Chiefs face ‘tough conversations’ after Bath defeat, says James Wilson

Exeter Chiefs coach James Wilson says his players face “tough conversations” after a 35-19 home defeat by Bath in the PREM Rugby Cup, admitting they remain “miles away” at the breakdown.

Ciaran Donoghue scored 20 points as Bath ran in four tries for a bonus-point win at Sandy Park on Saturday. The defeat leaves Exeter fifth in Pool A, with a Friday trip to Sale Sharks.

Exeter Chiefs’ breakdown problems

Wilson’s frustration centred on the area Exeter had worked on all week.

“Too many penalties. Breakdown was a struggle, and we just didn’t get into our game the way we wanted to,” he told Devon Live.

Despite that focus in training, he said Chiefs were “still miles away”.

“So there’ll be some tough conversations on Monday with this group. And I’m sure when the senior boys do come in, when they come back, hopefully we’ll be in a good space.”

He gave Bath their due. “It was a tough day, very frustrating. We just couldn’t really get into the flow of the game from minute one. And to be honest, credit to Bath. They’re good.”

How Bath won at Sandy Park

Bath took an early lead before two Exeter debutants, Archie McArthur and Carwyn Tuipulotu, scored to leave the hosts trailing 17-12 at half-time.

Donoghue’s converted try straight after the restart put Bath back in control. Sam Harris pulled Chiefs within eight points, but Max Pearce scored Bath’s fourth try and Donoghue added a late penalty. The official Exeter match report gives the attendance as 10,716.

Tuipulotu the bright spot

Tuipulotu’s carrying gave Wilson something to hold on to.

“Carwyn hasn’t had minutes in a long time, so it’s good to just get him the ball,” he said. “That’s his strength, just to carry and get over top of defences, and he did that today.”

The number eight and McArthur both scored on their first Exeter appearance. But Wilson’s verdict made clear that individual moments could not paper over the collective problems.

Sale Sharks next for Exeter Chiefs

Chiefs travel to the CorpAcq Stadium on Friday 13 November for their next PREM Rugby Cup game. They sit fifth in Pool A, with a game in hand on fourth-placed Bristol Bears.

The test at Sale is simple: whether Exeter can find the control at the breakdown that deserted them against Bath. Follow our Premiership Rugby coverage and check the rugby on TV guide for Friday’s broadcast details.

Exeter Chiefs: FAQs

What was the score in Exeter vs Bath? Bath won 35-19 at Sandy Park in the PREM Rugby Cup.

Who scored for Exeter against Bath? Archie McArthur, Carwyn Tuipulotu and Sam Harris scored Exeter’s tries.

When do Exeter Chiefs play next? Exeter visit Sale Sharks at the CorpAcq Stadium on Friday 13 November.