The Exeter Chiefs are prepared to face Benetton Rugby in the EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final. This match takes place at Stadio Monigo on Sunday afternoon. The Chiefs have announced an unchanged lineup for this crucial encounter.
Key Match Details
- Location: Stadio Monigo, Treviso
- Date: Sunday
- Kick-off: 13:30 local time
- Broadcast: Premier Sports
Team Overview
Dafydd Jenkins will captain the Chiefs, who feature three Italian internationals: Andrea Zambonin, Ross Vintcent, and Stephen Varney. They will take on their teammates from the Italian national squad.
Coaching Insights
Rob Baxter, the Chiefs’ director of rugby, emphasized the need for intensity. He noted that Benetton started their last match strongly. Baxter highlighted Tommaso Menoncello as a dangerous center and stressed the importance of dealing with their strong set pieces and breakdown plays.
Starting Lineup
The front row consists of props Scott Sio and Jimmy Roots, along with hooker Jack Yeandle. Jenkins and Zambonin will fortify the lock positions. The back row includes Tom Hooper, Ross Vintcent, and Greg Fisilau, who collectively made 79 tackles in the previous round.
Key Players
- Fly-half: Harvey Skinner
- Scrum-half: Stephen Varney
- Midfield: Will Rigg and Henry Slade
- Wingers: Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Paul Brown-Bampoe
- Full-back: Olly Woodburn
Bench Strength
The Chiefs have a solid replacement front row featuring hooker Joseph Dweba, along with props Ethan Burger and Bachuki Tchumbadze. Rusi Tuima and Finn Worley Brady will add depth to the second and back rows. The backs can count on Tom Cairns, Will Haydon-Wood, and Campbell Ridl for fresh legs.
Looking Ahead
Baxter believes that his players are energized and eager to perform well in every competition this season. He stated that identifying key elements of their game plan will be crucial for victory. With the stakes high at this juncture of the season, the team aims to enjoy the challenge while striving for a win.
Fans can catch all eight quarter-finals of the EPCR Challenge Cup and Investec Champions Cup live on Premier Sports, available on various platforms starting at £12.99 per month.
