Sports04 April, 20261 min read
Henry Slade Kicks Exeter Chiefs Into Challenge Cup Semi-Final Against Ulster
Henry Slade's 79th-minute penalty secured Exeter's 44-41 victory over Benetton. Exeter Chiefs progress to the Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster in Belfast.
Exeter Defeats Benetton
Exeter Chiefs edged out Benetton Rugby 44-41 in a dramatic European Challenge Cup quarter-final. Henry Slade kicked a 79th-minute penalty to secure the win and finished with a flawless kicking record. The match featured 10 tries, including a penalty try awarded to Exeter.
Benetton took an early lead through Niccolo Cannone, but Exeter responded immediately with a try from Olly Woodburn. The victory sets up a semi-final clash against Ulster at Ravenhill.
Match Dynamics
Benetton started strongly with Cannone scoring after just four minutes. Exeter responded with Woodburn's try and a penalty try after a sin-bin to Ratave. Despite being a man down, Benetton fought back to level at 24-24 at halftime.
The second half continued at a frantic pace with multiple tries from both sides. Slade's composure under pressure saw Exeter pull level and then edge ahead in the final moments.
Key Performances
Olly Woodburn finished with a match-high 116 metres gained and nine defenders beaten. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso scored a try and gained 60 metres. Henry Slade was the hero with a 17-point haul from his boot.
Ross Vintcent made a match-high 24 tackles. Jacob Umaga was prolific with two tries, five conversions, and two penalties.
Tactical and Emotional Stakes
The match was a clash of contrasting styles: Exeter's structured power versus Benetton's flair. Exeter's three Italian internationals provided an inside advantage. The victory ended Exeter's 13-year wait to reach the Challenge Cup semi-finals.
Ulster have had home advantage throughout the knockouts. The win provided a boost to Exeter's European credentials.
