Story perspectives

Exeter Chiefs beat Newcastle Red Bulls 34–28 for first win

By Drooid · Oct 11, 2026, 11:23 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Exeter Chiefs defeated Newcastle Red Bulls 34-28, earning their first Premiership victory.
Christian Wade scored a hat-trick, marking his 100th Premiership try.
Ross Vintcent opened scoring after 38 seconds with a charge-down try for Exeter.
Sam Harris debuted at full-back and added a second-half try.
Attendance was 7,071 (47% capacity), leading to the North Terrace closure.

History

Historical Context

England’s 20-17 extra-time victory over Australia at Sydney’s Stadium Australia on 22 November 2003, witnessed by 82,957 fans, gave the Northern Hemisphere its first Rugby World Cup, ending 16 years of Southern dominance. That breakthrough spurred the RFU’s investment in stadium upgrades and broader TV coverage, a trend echoed by clubs such as Exeter Chiefs securing their inaugural Premiership title.

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Story summary

Exeter Chiefs defeated Newcastle Red Bulls 34-28, earning their first Premiership victory.
Christian Wade scored a hat-trick, marking his 100th Premiership try.
Ross Vintcent opened scoring after 38 seconds with a charge-down try for Exeter.
Sam Harris debuted at full-back and added a second-half try.
Attendance was 7,071 (47% capacity), leading to the North Terrace closure.

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