For the second successive match Coventry found themselves facing a sizeable early deficit, but unlike in the match against Waterloo they could not find enough to snatch victory.

The starts to both games were uncannily similar. Coventry were 15-3 down against Waterloo, but roared back to win 21-15. They trailed 14-0 at Exeter and were just two points down at the interval, but the West Country side won the second period convincingly.

Coventry's director of rugby Derek Eves may have to look at his playing rota policy where he give matches to everyone in his squad. He left out six of the heroes who beat Waterloo and he might now decide he has to field his best team in every match.

Coventry must also try to curb their indiscipline. Exeter's fly half Brian Easson kicked four penalty goals in scoring 21 points of their total. And Matt Gallagher and Mick Curtis were both sin-binned for foul play.

Coventry's new fly half Steve Gough was also among the points - clocking up fifteen from two penalty goals, two conversions and a try.

Exeter's prop forward James Alvis opened their account with a try in the second minute. Easson converted and then concerted pressure opened up the way for him to score a try which he also converted.

Coventry were reeling at 14-0 down but as against Waterloo they got their game together. Gough kicked a penalty and then converted his own try, scored after he caught his own kick ahead.

Easson responded with a penalty goal but then Eves took a hand with a storming 25th minute unconverted try. 'Cov' then took the lead for the first time with a penalty goal from Gough, but with half-time approaching Easson was on the mark to put Exeter in front again.

Exeter increased the margin with a try in the second half by Bob Armstrong and a penalty goal from Easson.