HENRY SLADE, who graduated from Exeter’s production line to the England squad, paid tribute to the youngsters aiming to follow in his footsteps.
A glut of injuries have thrust the likes of Sam Simmonds and Sam Skinner into the front line as the champions embark on their title defence, and Slade said: “These boys have been awesome.”
No.8 Simmons, scorer of two tries at Gloucester last weekend, laid on the opening try for Slade who said:
“He’s very quick off the mark and has been causing havoc to defences.”

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter said: &ldquo...