Saracens moved to within two points of the Premiership summit by beating Newcastle Falcons, after struggling Worcester Warriors had earned an historic win in a low-scoring affair at leader Exeter Chiefs.

The Warriors defeated the defending champion 6-5 to record a first win at Sandy Park, putting a 12-point buffer between itself and bottom club London Irish.

A fine defensive effort kept the Chiefs at bay during a first half in which two Chris Pennell penalties had put Worcester into a 6-0 half-time lead.

Mitch Lees crossed for Exeter after the break to ensure a nervy ending, but the Warriors held on for a famous win.

That allowed Saracens to close on top spot thanks to a convincing 25-3 win over Newcastle at Allianz Park.

Sarries had 20 points at the break, thanks to Richard Barrington scoring, a penalty try and the handy boot of Ben Spencer, while a late score from replacement Max Malins rounded off the victory.

Leicester Tigers' hit-and-miss season continued in a 24-17 reverse at Gloucester, with Henry Trinder scoring twice for the hosts.

Rounding off the action, Irish lost for the 13th time in 14 league matches this season as Sale Sharks ground out a 13-9 victory.