DEFLATED John Brain admitted Worcester Rugby Club have a 'mountain to climb' if they are to win promotion following their 21-10 defeat at Exeter.

The loss leaves Worcester second in the National One table, two points behind leaders Rotherham and having played a game more. But the Sixways head coach was not looking for excuses after seeing his undisciplined side outplayed at the County Ground.

"All credit to Exeter, they defended doggedly and their fly half managed the game very well," he said. "We found ourselves 14-0 down at half time but we didn't think that was insurmountable. However, the key point of the match was when the referee penalised Dan Zaltman for a punch in the second half and they went on to drive the ball on and score.

"I thought it was a harsh decision because it was a general fight but in the end, they've got the decision. Tight games are often decided on key decisions and that has gone against us today. It was a penalty which could have gone either way."

Exeter fly half Chris Malone was the outstanding player for the Chiefs and he was the major difference between the two sides as Worcester slumped to their third defeat of the season.

"He kicks the ball very well and is a good taker of his options. He is a big difference to them from seasons gone. The forwards have been together for three seasons and they are a good unit but he has improved them vastly."

Worcester will now have to beat Rotherham in January to stand any chance of catching their Yorkshire rivals and winning promotion. And for Brain, the defeat has been a real body blow to their chances of Premiership rugby.

"It's a big blow. What we have to do is re-assess where we are. Obviously in January, we will have to play with the players who can take the club forward. This result obviously means that Christmas will not be so happy for us all. Exeter had the edge all afternoon and we just weren't good enough."