Exeter maintained their unbeaten record in the Gallagher Premiership with a last-minute penalty try as Bristol were cruelly denied in a thrilling game at Ashton Gate.
The Chiefs threw 11 players into a five-metre lineout and when it was collapsed, the referee marched to the posts causing heartbreak for Bristol’s players.
Despite Exeter outscoring them by five tries to two, Bristol were the better side as they hustled their rusty opponents with an all-action effort. Charles Piutau and Luke Morahan scored tries for Bristol, with Callum Sheedy converting both and kicking five penalty goals.
Moray Low, Tom Lawday, Santiago Cordero and Jack Yeandle scored tries for Exeter before their penalty try award, with Gareth Steenson converting two.
Bristol took a fourth-minute lead with a penalty