Hill keen for more of the action

Exeter Chiefs' Jonny Hill says he is champing at the bit for more first team rugby after making his Premiership debut against former club Gloucester at the weekend.

The second-rower, who joined the club last season, came off the bench in place of Ollie Atkins for the final 10 minutes in the Chiefs' 19-10 win over David Humphreys' men.

Injuries to the likes of Mitch Lees and Damian Welch mean Hill could be in line for more first team action in the coming weeks, and the 21-year-old is welcoming the challenge.

Speaking after making his first Premiership appearance on Saturday, Hill said: "It was nice. It was good to get it ticked off and I just want more now.

"It is not down to credit but I will take it hopefully I can fulfil my part in the team. Unfortunately for us, Mitch and Welchy have picked up a couple of injuries but I guess that is how I will get my chance.

"I will hopefully be part of the Bordeaux game next but we will see. It is going to be a massive challenge against a big French side at home with massive support. I'm looking forward to getting out there."

Victory against Hill's former club, which came in horrendous conditions, means the Chiefs are comfortably seated in second place, three points behind leaders Saracens and 12 points clear of fifth-placed Northampton.

It also gave Rob Baxter's side vital momentum following a disappointing New Year's Day defeat at Northampton and with a trip to Bordeaux-Bègles on Saturday.

"Games like that are what will keep us at the top and we need to just keep going one week at a time, get the five points and see where we are," said Hill.

"It was a massive win. The conditions out there were massive factor in the game but we were glad to get the win.

"Obviously with that wind into our faces in the first half it wasn't easy but the boys dug deep and it was a really good win.

"Being Gloucester, it was a little bit special, but it is still a game of rugby for me."