ALMOST 7,000 supporters flocked to Sixways to see Worcester Warriors push a strong Exeter Chiefs side all the way in the Premiership Cup.

It was the first Friday night fixture of the season and the home fans were treated to a ferocious clash played under the new floodlights.

A Tom Howe hat-trick and a resilient defensive display saw Warriors to take a 19-10 lead at the start of the second half.

But Exeter scored 24 unanswered points with two converted tries coming in the final two minutes to secure a 34-19 victory.

The bonus-point win also saw Exeter overtake Warriors at the top of Pool Three.

JMP photographers Robbie Stephenson and Ryan Hiscott were at Sixways to capture fans in the stands.