Aviva Premiership – Week 8 Round-Up

The latest round of Aviva Premiership games got off to a slow start as Northampton overcame Exeter 8-3 in a low scoring game. Exeter had been the leading point scorers in the league and in good form, but Mike Haywood’s try was enough to give Northampton the win to see them move up to fifth in the table.

With Exeter losing, Saracens took their opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table with a 26-6 win over Leicester. The wins sees Saracens move six points clear of Exeter after winning all of their first eight games. London Irish were unable to build on their first win of the season they achieved last week, as they suffered a 27-14 defeat at the hands of Gloucester. Gloucester are up to sixth in the table following the win.

Following London Irish’s loss, Newcastle had the chance to move off the foot of the table. They took their opportunity after beating Bath 19-14. The Falcons led 13-8 at half time and were able to hang on for a crucial win. Sale won only their third game of the season with a 15-9 win over London Wasps. In a match which featured no tries, Danny Cipriani scored all of Sale’s points as they rose to seventh in the table.

The final match of the weekend saw Harlequins beat Worcester 24-20 to take advantage of Exeter and Leicester’s defeats. Harlequins are now up to third in the table, just three points behind second-placed Exeter.

Next week sees a huge relegation battle between London Irish and Newcastle, while Saracens will face a tough game against Harlequins as they bid to maintain their 100% record.