Todd in awe of Chiefs back row

TODD Blackadder warned the rest of Europe to beware of Exeter who entertain Leinster in the Champions Cup next Sunday.

“If they keep playing like that I don’t think anyone will get close to them,” said Bath’s director of rugby. “They were all over us. I doubt you could see a better first half than that today.

“We looked off and looked a little out of sorts but we bounced back really well and showed a little bit of resilience.”

Bath’s boss declined the invitation to claim the absence of No.8 Taulupe Faletau with Wales made a difference. “Probably not today,” he said. “We simply got outplayed.”

Blackadder, hugely impressed by the Exeter back row of Thomas Waldrom, Don Armand and Matt Kvesic, added: “Their back row as a trio were absolutely unbelievable.”

Kvesic has struggled for a starting berth since arriving from Worcester but Exeter forwards coach Rob Hunter said: “It’s nice to see Matt starting to play to his potential.”