Hunt try stretches Chiefs’ winning streak
EXETER maintained their post-Christmas momentum with their fourth victory in a row.
After last weekend’s heroics against Saracens, league leaders Harlequins were sent packing from Sandy Park.
With chilly conditions overhead, it was the hosts who got off to the perfect start as McKinley Hunt crashed over for her fourth try of the season. Gabby Cantorna converted.
Harlequins were playing their first match since before Christmas and at times it showed, with a lack of fluidity in their attacking game.
They were kept in the tie thanks to the boot of Ellie Green, who pounced upon Exeter’s ill-discipline with two penalties to keep her side within striking distance.
As half-time approached, Kate Zackary and Sachiko
Kato popped up with timely interventions to keep Harlequins out as the Londoners hounded the Exeter line.
After the break, the match turned into a somewhat scrappy affair.
Harlequins continued to camp themselves in the Chiefs half but found a ferocious defence in their way.
It resulted in Harlequins looking to use the option of Lagi Tuima’s boot to try and play a territory game. However, Exeter full-back Merryn Doidge was up to the task to avert any threat.
As time ticked away, Harlequins back row Emily Robinson saw red for a swinging arm tackle on Michaella Roberts which allowed the Chiefs to wind down the clock and hammer the ball into touch, securing a second major victory on the trot.