Simmonds proves his worth

By Mark Stevens
24/9/18

Sam Simmonds put the disappointment of his ommissiom from the England training squad behind him as he helped guide Exeter Chiefs to a fourth successive victory in this season's Gallagher Premiership.

The talented No.8 grabbed a try double in his side's 24-17 victory away to Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park.

He touched down twice in the first half to take his seasonal tally to five tries, before back-row colleague Matt Kvesic helped sealed the win with a third converted try after the break.

Post-game, Simmonds - who collected the game's man of the match award - said: "It was a good win for us. We know hard tough it is when you come up here, but we felt like we had a bit of point to prove after losing here last season.

"They took it to us that day and they did the same again today, so we've got to be happy to come away with the four points."

Both Simmonds and Kvesic were instrumental on their returns to the Exeter starting line-up, having missed the previous week's win at home to Sale Sharks.

It was the display of Simmonds, who has won seven Test caps for England, that caught the eye of many.

"Obviously I was disappointed to miss out on the training squad, but I've spoken to Eddie [Jones] and he's given me things to work on so that I can try and get myself in contention for the Autumn series," said Simmonds.

"Right now, I'm pretty content with playing for Exeter and putting in a good shift for them. If international honours come, they come, but I'm proud of what we're doing here at the club."