In a nail-biting clash that saw Exeter Chiefs narrowly edged out 34-31 by Gloucester in the 13th round of the PREM at Kingsholm, the individual performances varied across the board. Below, we delve into how each player contributed to this closely fought contest.
Campbell Ridl, stationed at fullback, showcased a commendable bravery, constantly engaging in the fray and emerging with significant gains, despite a punishing tackle from Ben Loader that may leave him counting his ribs. His resilience earns him a 6.
"Paul Brown-Bampoe made a spirited start, assisting a try, but his game was cut short by a head knock at just 19 minutes."
His brief but impactful appearance also merits a 6.
Centre Henry Slade displayed a mix of brilliance and intermittence. When he ignited, he was nothing short of classy, driving Exeter’s late charge with a try and vital attacking plays, deserving a 6. Len Ikitau, returning from injury, showed signs of rust but will likely benefit from the game time, scoring a 5.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso on the wing was nothing short of spectacular, acting as a linchpin for Exeter’s offensive efforts and scoring a well-earned try. His dynamic performance, which seemed to defy conventional limits, rightly earned him an 8.
Fly-half Harvey Skinner and scrum-half Stephen Varney, both scored a 5, had their moments but struggled to consistently influence the game, with Varney facing a tough return to Kingsholm.
In the back-row, Greg Fisilau overcame a challenging first half to leave a mark in the second, scoring a try and receiving a 6. Ross Vintcent’s early try and all-round positive play earned him a 7. However, Ethan Roots, despite a solid game, marred his performance with a late outburst that stifled Exeter’s comeback, resulting in a score of 4.
The tight five struggled overall, with Lewis Pearson and Rusi Tuima both fighting hard but unable to shift the forward battle, each earning a 5. Josh Iosefa-Scott, also scoring a 5, was active in loose play but found wanting in the scrums against a dominant Val Rapava-Ruskin and was substituted at halftime. Joseph Dweba and Will Goodrick-Clarke, both active around the field but challenged in set pieces, left the field with 5s as well.
The replacements, particularly Tom Hooper and Christ Tshiunza, injected much-needed vigor into the Chiefs' lineup, both significantly impacting the game and earning a collective 6. Ben Hammersley, after initial uncertainties, settled to contribute positively.
This match, while ending in defeat for Exeter, highlighted both the potential and the areas for improvement within the squad. As the season progresses, the integration of returning players and the refinement of team dynamics will be crucial for Rob Baxter’s men.
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In a nail-biting clash that saw Exeter Chiefs narrowly edged out 34-31 by Gloucester in the 13th round of the PREM at Kingsholm, the individual performances varied across the board. Below, we delve into how each player contributed to this closely fought contest.
Campbell Ridl, stationed at fullback, showcased a commendable bravery, constantly engaging in the fray and emerging with significant gains, despite a punishing tackle from Ben Loader that may leave him counting his ribs. His resilience earns him a 6.
"Paul Brown-Bampoe made a spirited start, assisting a try, but his game was cut short by a head knock at just 19 minutes."
His brief but impactful appearance also merits a 6.Centre Henry Slade displayed a mix of brilliance and intermittence. When he ignited, he was nothing short of classy, driving Exeter’s late charge with a try and vital attacking plays, deserving a 6. Len Ikitau, returning from injury, showed signs of rust but will likely benefit from the game time, scoring a 5.
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso on the wing was nothing short of spectacular, acting as a linchpin for Exeter’s offensive efforts and scoring a well-earned try. His dynamic performance, which seemed to defy conventional limits, rightly earned him an 8.
Fly-half Harvey Skinner and scrum-half Stephen Varney, both scored a 5, had their moments but struggled to consistently influence the game, with Varney facing a tough return to Kingsholm.
In the back-row, Greg Fisilau overcame a challenging first half to leave a mark in the second, scoring a try and receiving a 6. Ross Vintcent’s early try and all-round positive play earned him a 7. However, Ethan Roots, despite a solid game, marred his performance with a late outburst that stifled Exeter’s comeback, resulting in a score of 4.
The tight five struggled overall, with Lewis Pearson and Rusi Tuima both fighting hard but unable to shift the forward battle, each earning a 5. Josh Iosefa-Scott, also scoring a 5, was active in loose play but found wanting in the scrums against a dominant Val Rapava-Ruskin and was substituted at halftime. Joseph Dweba and Will Goodrick-Clarke, both active around the field but challenged in set pieces, left the field with 5s as well.
The replacements, particularly Tom Hooper and Christ Tshiunza, injected much-needed vigor into the Chiefs' lineup, both significantly impacting the game and earning a collective 6. Ben Hammersley, after initial uncertainties, settled to contribute positively.
This match, while ending in defeat for Exeter, highlighted both the potential and the areas for improvement within the squad. As the season progresses, the integration of returning players and the refinement of team dynamics will be crucial for Rob Baxter’s men.