Tom Roebuck stars with hat-trick in Sale’s six-try demolition of Exeter

Tom Roebuck breaks clear of the Exeter defence – his hat-trick performance has seen him promised a new pair of trainers by his director of rugby. Photograph: Richard Sellers/PA

Sale were long overdue a result after a run of six consecutive defeats ­stretching back to before Christmas, but this remarkable six-try victory was sweet beyond their fondest imaginings.

The Sharks’ teamwork was matchless and their conviction unshakeable as they reduced Exeter to rubble on the outskirts of Salford. The homegrown wing Tom Roebuck scored a superb hat-trick to press his claims for a maiden England cap but this was very much about the collective.