Exeter Chiefs 26 - 29 Glasgow Warriors

BYRON McGuigan grabbed a double as Glasgow Warriors geared up for the RaboDirect Pro12 season with a comfortable win over Exeter Chiefs, writes Mike Brown.

The Sevens specialist crossed twice in the first half before Alex Dunbar and Mark Bennett touched down. Exeter responded with a Tom James brace but it was not enough and Gregor Townsend’s men will go into Friday’s clash with Cardiff Blues full of confidence.

They reached the Pro12 play-offs last season and lost to eventual winners Leinster but are determined to go one better in the new campaign.

Townsend said: “It was the perfect preparation. Cardiff are playing really well, they’re full of confidence and have a fantastic young No.10. We’re expecting a very tough game on Friday.”

Gareth Steenson and Scott Wight exchanged penalties in the opening stages, with Exeter keeping their noses in front, but Glasgow surged into the lead after Alex Dunbar’s kick rebounded off Luke Arscott and McGuigan hacked through.

Steenson booted the hosts back into the lead but McGuigan grabbed his second try after Sean Lamont offloaded at close range. Wight added the extras and Glasgow led 15-9 at halftime.

McGuigan’s scintillating break laid the platform for Dunbar to skip inside Carl Rimmer, but the Chiefs fought back through Steenson’s boot and a James try. Bennett put the result beyond doubt before James claimed a late consolation.