Chiefs out to put on a show - Cantorna

By Harry Scott-Munro
15/12/20

Exeter Chiefs Women’s centre Gabby Cantorna says there is real excitement amongst her and her team-mates as they prepare to play in front of supporters for the first time.

Covid restrictions have meant the newly-formed Chiefs have had to kick-off their first-ever season in the Allianz Premier 15s behind closed doors.

This Saturday, however, Chiefs supporters will be able to get their first glimpse of Susie Appleby’s side in action, when they play host to fellow newcomers Sale Sharks (2pm).

‘’I’m so excited to play in front of the fans,” said the American international. “It’s been so long, over a year probably since we had fans in, so we’re really looking forward to seeing people in the stadium and, hopefully, giving them a win.’’

In what has been an encouraging start to life in the Premier 15s, the Chiefs will be hoping home comforts allow them to rediscover their winning formula having just gone down 14-7 to Loughborough Lightning last weekend.

Cantorna admitted post-game she was pleased with the defensive effort shown by her side against one of the division’s leading lights.

‘’To come away with a losing bonus point on the road, I think it’s a real testament to our defence,’’ she said. “‘The forwards work on our defence is just excellent. They held out in the try zone three or four times - and on the 10m line in attack, which is so hard to do.’’

That marked improvement in defence has been a crucial part of Chiefs development so far this season and has allowed them to go toe-to-toe with established top four sides.

‘’I think we’re really excited as a unit with the way our defence has progressed as the season has gone on,’’ explained Cantorna. ‘’We’ve really narrowed our points’ difference margins.

‘’I think it’s working really well. Lauren (Cattell) is such a great communicator on my outside that I always feel confident to show high and get them (the attacker) to step back in towards where our defence is strong, which is what I think is shutting down these really expansive wide attacks.’’

Cantorna took over kicking duties earlier in the season and has relished the added responsibility in her game, scoring 16 points from the tee so far this season.

‘’I do love kicking for points, it’s definitely something I spend a lot of my extra time doing and having the opportunity to do it in-game and in real scenarios is just so great and I really enjoy doing it.’’

And Cantorna has also relished her time in Exeter so far, expressing her delight at plying her trade in a city that ‘has such a love for rugby.’

‘’I’m being hosted right now by two Exeter Chiefs fans,’’ she explains. ‘It’s amazing and such a nice community to be a part of.’’

Next week will see fans return to Sandy Park and an opportunity for spectators to attend a