• Northampton 30-24 Exeter
• Fin Smith powers Saints to success by kicking 18 points

The champions’ defence is back on the rails. Northampton could hardly describe themselves as at their best here, but they were worth a win that was more comfortable than the mandatory final-quarter comeback by the Chiefs might have suggested.

Exeter are a young side whose rebuilding phase proved more impressive than expected last season, but they do look what they are – a talented group still unfamiliar with the challenges of the Premiership and each other. That comeback from 30-10, though, for a losing bonus point will encourage them.