Photo via BBC Sport

Wade scores 100th Prem try as Newcastle lose to Exeter

Christian Wade etched his name into Premier Rugby history with a hat-trick to become only the second player ever to reach 100 tries in the competition, though Newcastle Red Bulls fell to a 34-28 defeat at Exeter Chiefs. The 35-year-old winger, who spent four years attempting an NFL career before returning to the Premiership in 2024, scored twice in the first half and a third early in the second period after capitalizing on a defensive error by Exeter’s Henry Slade.

His milestone try came just one away from Chris Ashton’s all-time record of 101, set at the same venue last April, as Newcastle’s former England international continued his remarkable journey after stints with Gloucester, Racing 92, and Wigan Warriors in rugby league.

Exeter’s Ross Vintcent made a strong return from injury with a try inside the first minute, while Slade’s 64th-minute penalty and a late effort from Bachuki Tchumbadze sealed a hard-fought bonus-point win for the hosts. Despite a frantic opening quarter featuring five tries, Exeter’s 19-14 lead at halftime proved decisive, with Slade’s clinical kicking and Slade’s 64th-minute penalty ensuring the Chiefs’ first league victory of the season.

Newcastle, meanwhile, remain winless at the bottom of the table despite earning two losing bonus points, while Exeter’s victory narrows the gap to leaders Gloucester to just four points.

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