In a pulsating showdown that will be etched in the annals of rugby history, Exeter Chiefs orchestrated a stunning late-game drama to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against three-time champions Toulon in the Investec Champions Cup. The final scoreline read Toulon 18-19 Exeter, but it’s the gripping tale within those numbers that deserves our undivided attention.
The youthful Exeter backline, led by the impressive full-back Tom Wyatt, embarked on a journey that would leave rugby fans on the edge of their seats. Henry Slade emerged as the hero of the day, booting an injury-time conversion that would go down in Exeter folklore.
The Chiefs set the tone early, courtesy of an intercept try by the electric Harvey Skinner. However, Toulon, a team steeped in rugby tradition, responded with tries of their own from Beka Gigashvili and Ben White. The crowd roared, and the contest escalated into a spectacle for the ages.
Max Norey, a replacement who would etch his name into Exeter’s rugby pantheon, powered his way over the try line, rekindling hope for a dramatic comeback. With the clock ticking down and the tension reaching fever pitch, Jacques Vermeulen, channeling his inner hero, scored in the dying moments. It was now Henry Slade’s turn to step into the spotlight, and he did so with aplomb, slotting the crucial extras that sealed a memorable win for Exeter on French soil.
Toulon, the once-mighty champions who reigned supreme from 2013 to 2015, found themselves unable to register a single point in the second half, a testament to Exeter’s resolute defense. Enzo Herve’s two first-half penalties were their final contributions to the scoreboard. Both sides displayed unwavering defensive resolve, creating a thrilling contest where points were at a premium.
As the match hung in the balance, Exeter, the 2020 European champions, stood just a converted try away from a vital opening victory. Jacques Vermeulen, one of only two players in the matchday squad who had tasted victory in that historic final, bulldozed his way over the line. The stage was set for Henry Slade, the second player with championship experience, to seal the deal. And he did so with the calmness of a seasoned maestro, earning his place in Exeter’s storied rugby history.
In a game where heroes emerged and legends were born, Exeter Chiefs emerged triumphant against the odds. Rugby fans across the globe will undoubtedly relish this epic clash for years to come. Stay tuned for more thrilling rugby action in the Investec Champions Cup.
Line-ups:
Toulon: Jaminet; Drean, Nayacalevu, Smaili, Villiere; Herve, White; Devaux, Singleton, Gigashvili, Halagahu, Alainu’uese, Abadie, Ollivon (capt), Isa.
Exeter: Wyatt; Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Hawkins, Hammersley; Skinner, Cairns; Sio, Frost, Painter, Tuima, Jenkins (capt), Roots, Vermeulen, Fisilau.
Referee: Chris Busby
Sin-bin: Alainu’uese (31)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Champions Cup Thriller
Q: Who were the standout players for Exeter Chiefs in their victory over Toulon?
A: Full-back Tom Wyatt and Henry Slade emerged as standout players for Exeter Chiefs. Wyatt impressed in the youthful backline, while Slade’s last-minute conversion sealed the dramatic win.
Q: How did the match unfold between Exeter and Toulon?
A: Exeter took an early lead with an intercept try, but Toulon responded with tries of their own. Max Norey and Jacques Vermeulen’s late heroics secured the victory for Exeter in a thrilling back-and-forth contest.
Q: What was the significance of Henry Slade’s conversion in the match?
A: Henry Slade’s injury-time conversion was the decisive moment, as it secured Exeter’s dramatic win over Toulon, solidifying his status as the hero of the match.
Q: What is the history of Toulon in the Champions Cup?
A: Toulon had a storied history in the Champions Cup, winning the competition three consecutive times from 2013 to 2015, but they were unable to secure a point in the second half of this match against Exeter.
Q: How did both teams perform defensively in the match?
A: Both Exeter and Toulon displayed incredible defensive prowess, keeping each other scoreless for most of the second half, making the contest even more thrilling for the fans.
More about Champions Cup Thriller
- Official Champions Cup Website
- Exeter Chiefs Official Website
- Rugby News and Updates
- Toulon Rugby Club
3 comments
wow, wot a game! exeter chiefs rly pulled a rabbit outta their hat wiv that last-minute win. henry slade, total legend!
i wuz on edge the whole time watchin dis match. exeter’s defense, omg!
toulon, 3-time champs, had a rough day. but rugby is all abt surprises, rite?