Captain Poppy celebrates the “connection” with fans ahead of Saracens game

Exeter Chiefs Women’s captain Poppy Leitch has paid tribute to “the best fans” and the connection the team has formed with them ahead of Sunday’s Allianz PWR home game against Saracens.

The 27-year-old is also looking forward to the challenge posed by Saracens in this round 16 fixture as the season edges towards the semi-finals.

“People often refer to this time of year as the ‘business end’,” said Leitch. “We have been in finals before and, ultimately, it’s the team that turns up on the day that ends up lifting the trophy at the end. To be hitting form when it really starts to matter is pleasing. Hopefully, we will take that form into the game this weekend.

“Every time we play Saracens, it’s pretty tight, but they have not beaten us at home, and we hold that quite close to our hearts. It will be physical and tough, but I am looking forward to it. I like playing hard games against Saracens.

“People talk about Sandy Park being a tough place to go. That home crowd makes a big difference, and we are really fortunate as we are getting 2,000 fans per week for our fixtures. With the men being away, hopefully we will get a good crowd here with people who want to come and watch some rugby on a sunny day.”

Sunday’s game is the Exeter Chiefs Community Game to honour the unsung heroes of the rugby community. These guests will be in addition to the fans that regularly support the women’s team.

Leitch added: “When you run out at Sandy Park, you do expect the fans to be there, and we have some of the best fans. Of course, we say that because they are our fans, but I think we have worked quite hard as a side to connect with them on a genuine, organic journey.

“It’s great to see a specific demographic coming along to our games, such as young families. In the world we live in, it’s expensive to do anything as a family, but it’s quite a cheap day out to come here and watch the women play.

“It’s great ruby and if the sun is shining, or even if it’s raining or it’s freezing, at least you are watching something that is entertaining, and you get to meet people at the end of it and build a connection with them.”

Sunday’s game is £11 for adults and £5.50 for children 16 and under. This game is included in all season ticket holder packages.