Exeter Chiefs’ remarkable journey continues and I’m not just talking about the one that they’ve been on since Round 1. A little over 6 years ago they were promoted into the Aviva Premiership and in less than a week’s time they’ll duel with Europe’s best for the domestic title.
The Devon based side are showing the rest of the competition how you go about developing and building a successful rugby club. When it comes to the Exeter Chiefs, singling out individuals seems slightly unfair because it’s the sum of their parts that makes them so effective. However, on Saturday afternoon there were players that spearheaded their victory.
In their back line Jack Nowell and Henry Slade delighted while Gareth Steenson continued to manage the elements and the game with ease. Focusing on Jack Nowell first, the winger knows that others in the country are doing the business out wide but it isn't fazing him. Instead, whenever he steps onto the field he reminds us all of his own class and International ability and that benefits Exeter greatly. Next, to Henry Slade. There wasn’t anyone in the country that wasn’t distraught to see him break his leg at the Ricoh Arena back in December. But, his rapid return to fitness says everything you need to know about this dedication to the cause. With more rugby under his belt again Slade is now approaching his pre-injury form and on Saturday afternoon combined exceptional game management with the distribution and touches of brilliance that only he can deliver.
In order for Exeter’s backs to work their magic their forwards needed to front up and at Sandy Park did so handsomely against a powerful Wasps pack. Don Armand and Julian Salvi were rugged and physical and when the true pressure arrived in the final moments of the game the Chiefs' scrummage held firm. The resulting penalty try was the culmination of a match’s worth of work and a further example of their desire and determination to succeed.
 |
| (C) @PPAUK |
Of course it takes two to tango in a Premiership semi-final and Wasps played a huge part in what was a tremendous play-off fixture. This season Joe Simpson’s injury provided Dan Robson with a window of opportunity and it’s one that he grasped with both hands. Robson has always had the potential to fly, combining clean and crisp distribution with blistering pace and an eye for the try line, but he’s just never had the extended game time to showcase his full worth. His personal breaks plus his combination with Jimmy Gopperth flourished again on Saturday afternoon and as a unit they've been rock solid. Wasps have others arriving but it's going to take something particularly special to push Robson and Gopperth out of their jerseys next season.
Alas Wasps weren’t quite as clinical as their opponents and ultimately that cost them their semi-final but Dai Young should be pleased with their progression this season. When Wasps have been at the very top of their game they've ignited the Premiership, and Europe, and proved to themselves how good they can be. George Smith's presence has accelerated the progression of Thomas Young and raised the standards at the club. They have some sparky signings arriving in Tommy Taylor, Danny Cipriani, Marty Moore but all will have to earn their place in the starting XV.
 |
| (C) @PremRugby |
I hope that the Exeter Chiefs cracked open a few beers last night to toast their semi-final achievement because the way in which they rode out the second-half and delivered the result deserved a pint or two! However, I guarantee that come this morning [Sunday] Rob Baxter will already have his sights on Saracens. In the aftermath of the game Baxter assured all listening that they ‘would not play like Leicester did’ against Saracens for clearly he recognised the error in Leicester’s ways and knows that his side cannot fall into that trap.
Exeter must arrive at Twickenham Stadium aware of their opponent's abilities but focused on how they will play their own game against them. From what I've seen there's no chance of the Chiefs becoming overawed by the occasion, instead they'll simply go out and aim to give the best account of themselves possible. Rob Baxter's side may not have won as many awards as Saracens this season, and they may not have as many household names as their fellow finalists, however they're in it to win it and will fight tooth and nail in their first Premiership final.
Exeter must arrive at Twickenham Stadium aware of their opponent's abilities but focused on how they will play their own game against them. From what I've seen there's no chance of the Chiefs becoming overawed by the occasion, instead they'll simply go out and aim to give the best account of themselves possible. Rob Baxter's side may not have won as many awards as Saracens this season, and they may not have as many household names as their fellow finalists, however they're in it to win it and will fight tooth and nail in their first Premiership final.
