Hogg’s Chiefs debut ends in Bath defeat at rainy Rec

Stuart Hogg’s Exeter Chiefs debut ended in defeat as Bath ground out a 13-10 victory in Friday’s Premiership clash at The Rec.

Full-back Hogg made his first appearance for last season’s losing finalists after becoming available following Scotland’s pool-stage elimination at the Rugby World Cup.

Prospects looked positive for the Chiefs in soaking wet conditions when Jonny Hill went under the posts 15 minutes in for the first try after Rhys Priestland’s boot had put Bath on the board early doors.

Joe Simmonds added the extras and nailed a penalty to stretch the lead, but Bath were level by the break as Tom Dunn bundled over the line and Priestland kicked the conversion.

FULL TIME: @bathrugby 13 @ExeterChiefs 10#BATvEXE pic.twitter.com/0tUdAOYyLT

— Exeter Chiefs (@ExeterChiefs) October 25, 2019

Priestland was on target again with a three-pointer in the 56th minute and Zach Mercer made a stunning covering tackle on Alex Cuthbert, who had broken from his own 22 for the Chiefs, to protect the slim advantage.

Bath held firm for the points to recover from last week’s resounding 43-16 loss to Bristol Bears in their season opener, while the Chiefs succumbed to a first defeat after beating Harlequins last time out.

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