A Haydn Thomas try and 17 points from the boot of fly-half Gareth Steenson sealed an historic success after the Chiefs came so close to shocking Heineken Cup holders Leinster in Round 1.

Exeter started brightly in West Wales as a typically powerful burst from Fijian centre Sireli Naqelevuki paved the way for the opening try with just five minutes on the clock.

Fine support work from Thomas saw the former Gloucester, Bath and Bristol scrum-half touch down for a score which Steenson converted to put Exeter in early control.

Steenson slotted three first-half penalties compared to two from opposite number Rhys Priestland to give Rob Baxter's men a 16-6 lead at the break and the Scarlets were unable to overturn the 10-point deficit despite winning the second period.

Two further strikes from Steenson either side of one from Aled Davies - a replacement for Priestland after the Wales star left the field of play on a stretcher - had the Chiefs 22-9 up before the hour and the hosts couldn't find the comeback they required in the last quarter.

A converted penalty try when Chiefs prop Ben Moon was in the sin bin on 66 minutes gave the Scarlets hope but Exeter held firm to jump three points above their opponents in the tournament's 'Pool of Death'.