They're back – Chiefs smash six of the best

CRISIS? What Crisis? Chiefs hardly looked like a team with major problems as they battered Bath into six-try submission at The Rec.

- GARY FITZGERALD

Sam Simmonds produced another powerful, inspirational No.8 performance as Exeter regained the winning thread with a bonus point triumph having lost their two previous games.

Warren Gatland was in the seats watching on as Simmonds and his teammates proved too hot to handle for the hosts, ending a two-match losing spell and baring their champions’ teeth just when some began to doubt their chances of retaining the domestic title.

And while Eddie Jones continues to snub 26-year old Chiefs star Simmonds, Gatland will have no doubt taken note of Simmonds's outstanding display with his Lions squad in mind to face South Africa.

Chiefs head coach Ali Hepher praised all his players for battling back from an early deficit to win handsomely.

He said: “We expect ourselves to win every game but we try and take that pressure off the players. But it’s a fact of life when you are domestic and European champions.