PWR round-up: Saracens and Bristol secure play-off spots

Saracens and Bristol Bears have become the final two sides to secure their Premiership Women’s Rugby play-off places.

Second-placed Saracens sealed their top-four spot with a battling 21-12 win over Exeter Chiefs, whose defeat secured the Bears’ play-off berth.

Dave Ward’s side had kept their hopes alive on Friday with a 19-10 win in their final game of the season at third-placed Harlequins, who were already guaranteed a top-four finish.

Gloucester-Hartpury secured top spot and a home semi-final against Bristol following a 41-24 win over bottom side Sale.

Harlequins and Saracens must wait until their final league matches on Friday to decide who will be at home in the semi-final.

Saracens fell behind early thanks to a Nancy McGillivray try, but Sophie Bridger, May Campbell and Poppy Cleall all went over before the break to put the home side in control.

The visitors reduced the deficit in the second half thanks to Claudia MacDonald’s try, but Saracens held on.

Second-bottom Leicester secured just their third win of the season with a thrilling 45-43 victory over third-bottom Trailfinders.

Francesca McGhie scored three tries and Tahlia Brody went over twice for Leicester, who are still 17 points behind their opponents and guaranteed to finish eighth.