The fixture provided a launch pad for the brand new league, which sees the country's top eight university rugby union sides battle for the BUCS title.  

More than 3,000 fans witnessed an entertaining first half, as Loughborough established a 17-3 lead thanks to tries from Sam Pointon and Charlie Dockery, and a Josh Sharp conversion. 

Exeter, who defeated Loughborough in last year's final to become BUCS Rugby champions, made a fightback in the second period, but the hosts secured a 20-11 victory, with Will Edwards adding the final three points. 

Loughborough head coach Dave Morris said: “Exeter are a very, very good side and they stressed us and created challenges that we probably don’t normally face, but we made a great start. 

"The BUCS Super Rugby has got the potential to absolutely fly; it’s a great brand of rugby and we’ve now got a format that’s pitching the best sides against each other. It’s going to be great for development and I think it’s something that’s going to really grow over next couple of years.”

Loughborough captain Isaac Miller commented: “I’m really chuffed with that. We said before the game that we wanted to get revenge for last year and so that was for everyone who’s been involved the last two years. There are still some bits to work on so we’ll come back stronger, but we’re just looking forward to kicking on with the season now.”

For the full match report, click here.