Gareth Steenson, the legendary Exeter Chiefs figure, has issued a stern warning to Ulster about the intense determination burning within his former team as they aim to make amends for a past European triumph that their fans could not witness due to pandemic restrictions. With a record-setting 2,531 points for the Chiefs and having steered the team to PREM success in 2017, Steenson finds himself in a poignant duel of loyalties as Exeter heads to Affidea Stadium to face his native Ulster.
Steenson, who has deep roots in both Exeter and Ulster, understands the emotional and competitive stakes involved. “The experience of winning the Champions Cup was absolutely huge, particularly given the club’s journey from the lower leagues,” he explained. However, the absence of fans during their 2020 victory left a void. "Not having our families here to share such an achievement was the cruellest thing,” added Rob Baxter, Exeter’s Director of Rugby, reflecting on the eerie quiet of the final whistle at Ashton Gate.
“That will be a huge motivation for those lads.”
The path back to a major final has been a rallying cry for the Chiefs, who narrowly missed a chance in 2023 and now face a formidable Ulster team buoyed by home advantage and recent national successes. The challenge is steep, exacerbated by a recent suspension to Ethan Roots and a heavy defeat last year at the same venue. Yet, Steenson sees a silver lining in recent setbacks: “It’s a big ask for Chiefs but I actually don’t think it’s a bad thing that they lost to Gloucester at the weekend as it will refocus them massively,” he noted, suggesting a strategic tightening of their defensive game.
Despite his split loyalties, Steenson feels the pull of his Exeter ties, where his life and family have flourished. He remains connected to the community, owning a local bar and cherishing the memories made over twelve years. The upcoming clash at Affidea Stadium isn't just a game; it's a convergence of past and present, personal and professional, for Steenson.
As the teams prepare, the atmosphere in Belfast is charged with anticipation. Exeter is not just fighting for a win but for an opportunity to celebrate with their supporters, something sorely missed in their last European conquest. With the crowd expected to play a significant role, the stage is set for a memorable encounter.
Join the live action on Premier Sports 1, as Gareth Steenson offers insights alongside a seasoned panel, promising a match filled with passion and resilience. This weekend’s clash is more than a game; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby and the communities it unites.
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Gareth Steenson, the legendary Exeter Chiefs figure, has issued a stern warning to Ulster about the intense determination burning within his former team as they aim to make amends for a past European triumph that their fans could not witness due to pandemic restrictions. With a record-setting 2,531 points for the Chiefs and having steered the team to PREM success in 2017, Steenson finds himself in a poignant duel of loyalties as Exeter heads to Affidea Stadium to face his native Ulster.
Steenson, who has deep roots in both Exeter and Ulster, understands the emotional and competitive stakes involved. “The experience of winning the Champions Cup was absolutely huge, particularly given the club’s journey from the lower leagues,” he explained. However, the absence of fans during their 2020 victory left a void. "Not having our families here to share such an achievement was the cruellest thing,” added Rob Baxter, Exeter’s Director of Rugby, reflecting on the eerie quiet of the final whistle at Ashton Gate.
“That will be a huge motivation for those lads.”
The path back to a major final has been a rallying cry for the Chiefs, who narrowly missed a chance in 2023 and now face a formidable Ulster team buoyed by home advantage and recent national successes. The challenge is steep, exacerbated by a recent suspension to Ethan Roots and a heavy defeat last year at the same venue. Yet, Steenson sees a silver lining in recent setbacks: “It’s a big ask for Chiefs but I actually don’t think it’s a bad thing that they lost to Gloucester at the weekend as it will refocus them massively,” he noted, suggesting a strategic tightening of their defensive game.
Despite his split loyalties, Steenson feels the pull of his Exeter ties, where his life and family have flourished. He remains connected to the community, owning a local bar and cherishing the memories made over twelve years. The upcoming clash at Affidea Stadium isn't just a game; it's a convergence of past and present, personal and professional, for Steenson.
As the teams prepare, the atmosphere in Belfast is charged with anticipation. Exeter is not just fighting for a win but for an opportunity to celebrate with their supporters, something sorely missed in their last European conquest. With the crowd expected to play a significant role, the stage is set for a memorable encounter.
Join the live action on Premier Sports 1, as Gareth Steenson offers insights alongside a seasoned panel, promising a match filled with passion and resilience. This weekend’s clash is more than a game; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby and the communities it unites.