Yarde sale overshadows Exeter’s win
THIS was a fixture eclipsed by a transfer rumour, with all the players in action here overshadowed by one who was nowhere to be seen — Marland Yarde.
Before kick-off, reports circulated that the Harlequins wing had signed for Sale, with a view to an immediate move north.
The 25-year-old (right) was left out of England’s squad for the autumn campaign after being dropped by Quins for missing a training session last week.
When Quins named their match-day 23 yesterday for the home clash with Worcester, Yarde’s name was absent.
Hours later came speculation that he had agreed to join the Sharks. Former Quins and England wing Ugo Monye, on duty in Salford for BT Sport, said: ‘I’ve heard that he has signed for Sale. Clearly things aren’t great at Harlequins for him. He might be available for selection for Sale as early as next weekend.’
The intrigue was suspended at kick-off but this match failed to ignite, despite a manic opening passage when Sale were in off- load overdrive.
There was no score for the first half- hour, which was a fair reflection of a disjointed contest dominated by defences. It was 3-3 at half-time after Gareth Steenson and Faf de Klerk struck a penalty apiece. Exeter wing Lachie Turner burst through from a ruck to touch down after the break and Steenson converted to leave the champions in the driving seat. Another De Klerk penalty kept Sale in touch, but the Devon side repelled a late onslaught to claim victory and go top of the table.