Exeter's Remarkable Journey: From Last Place to Premiership Final Showdown
Exeter Chiefs prepare for a momentous Prem final this Saturday, marking a remarkable turnaround in just over a year. The contrast between two dressing-room scenes illustrates their journey: last April, Tony Rowe, the club's chief executive, expressed frustration after a disheartening 79-17 loss at Gloucester. Fast forward to this month, and Rob Baxter, Exeter's director of rugby, celebrates joyously in the away dressing room at Bath after securing the club's first final appearance in five years. Rob Baxter attributes Exeter's revival to a multitude of factors, emphasizing the importance of resilience and competitiveness. He reflects on the painful lessons learned from last season and the need for a strong start in every match, stating, "If you can't win, you draw; if you can't draw, you lose by one point." Former Exeter fly-half Gareth Steenson highlights the emotional connection within the squad, noting the importance of teamwork and camaraderie. Steenson, who played a pivotal role in Exeter's past successes, believes the current team exhibits a strong fighting spirit reminiscent of their earlier triumphs. Olly Woodburn, another key player for Exeter, draws parallels between this final and their first, where they were similarly underestimated. Having adapted his role from wing to full-back, Woodburn embraces the opportunity to return to a Twickenham final after six years, expressing his determination to seize the moment. As they head into the final, Exeter Chiefs stand as underdogs once more, ready to prove their mettle against any odds.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-19