Christian Wade reaches 100 Premiership tries as Exeter edge Newcastle

Christian Wade became the second player to reach 100 Premiership tries on Sunday, scoring three times for Newcastle Red Bulls in a 34-28 defeat at Exeter. BBC Sport reported that the 35-year-old winger is now one behind Chris Ashton's competition record of 101, leaving him close to another milestone despite the disappointment of the result at Sandy Park.

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Wade's route to the century included lengthy spells away from English club rugby. According to BBC Sport, he spent four years pursuing an NFL career from 2018, then played for Racing 92 before returning to the Premiership with Gloucester in 2024. He subsequently joined Newcastle after a brief stint with rugby league club Wigan Warriors. Ashton's record was established at Exeter in April 2023.

Sky Sports reported that Exeter's first league win of the season came after repeated changes of lead. Ross Vintcent scored twice early on, with Henry Slade supplying the pass for his second. Wade answered Exeter's opening try before Max Hicks also crossed for Newcastle. Slade then scored himself, but the hosts lost Ethan Roots to the sin-bin for a tackle made without using his arms.

Newcastle capitalised when Sammy Arnold broke through and created Wade's second try, taking a 21-19 advantage into the interval. Sam Harris restored Exeter's lead after the restart, only for Wade to complete his hat-trick following a Slade handling error. Sky Sports described the winger using a kick-and-chase to finish the opportunity. Newcastle had again moved ahead, but still faced the closing stages of an unsettled contest.

Slade's penalty subsequently put Exeter back in front by a single point. Bachuki Tchumbadze added the late try that secured the home victory. Zack Henry converted all four Newcastle tries, and the visitors collected two bonus points, Sky Sports reported, despite remaining without a win.

Afterwards, Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter told BBC Sport he had been dissatisfied with his side's defensive energy, while praising aspects of their attacking work. Newcastle head coach Dan McFarland expressed disappointment with the loss but said the effort and style of play gave him reasons for encouragement.