Bristol, Saracens & Exeter win Premiership openers

The Premiership Women's Rugby campaign kicked off on Saturday with victories for three of last season's play-off sides - Bristol Bears, Saracens and Exeter Chiefs.

Beaten finalists Bristol enjoyed a comfortable 46-19 win at Loughborough Lightning, but Saracens and Exeter had to battle hard to claim the points.

Three-time champions Sarries edged to a 38-29 win at home to London rivals Ealing Trailfinders, while the Chiefs kicked a penalty in the 10th minute of stoppage time to earn an 8-7 victory at Harlequins.

Gloucester-Hartpury, who have won the title for the past two seasons, play their opening game at home to Leicester Tigers on Sunday.

Liv McGoverne sealed victory for Exeter with the final kick of the game.

Quins had led since the 13th minute, through a converted Nicole Wythe try, but Taz Bricknell's 67th-minute effort narrowed their lead to 7-5 and when they were penalised at the scrum deep into stoppage time, McGoverne stepped up to provide the grandstand finish.

Saracens' win over Trailfinders at StoneX Stadium hung in the balance until the 79th minute, when Sarah McKenna crossed to finally seal a hard-fought victory.

Trailfinders winger Victoria Laflin was unfortunate to find herself on the losing team after running in three tries in the game.

She opened the scoring in the third minute and while Saracens quickly bounced back with scores from May Campbell and Chantelle Miell, they struggled to open up a decisive advantage.

Laflin levelled with her second converted try of the game before Akina Gondwe nudged over to give Saracens a 19-12 lead at half-time.

Tralfinders' Emma Taylor kicked a penalty after the break before Saracens twice stretched their lead - through Poppy Cleall and Bryony Field - but each time the visitors responded, with efforts from Ellie Boatman and Laflin.

Reneeqa Bonner ran in three tries in the opening eight minutes for Bristol in their statement win over Loughborough.

Millie David also scored a hat-trick for the Bears, with further tries coming from Jess Sprague and Amy Coles.

Lucy Calladine responded with two tries for the hosts, while Issy Winter added a late consolation.