Match Reaction - Ali Hepher
By Mark Stevens
27/2/22
Ali Hepher praised the ‘fighting spirit’ of his Exeter Chiefs side as they battled back to secure a crucial 34-31 victory over Northampton Saints in the Gallagher Premiership.
The Chiefs moved into the play-off spots for the first time in weeks, hauling themselves back from 28-17 down early in the second half, thanks to tries from Josh Hodge, Dave Ewers, Jack Yeandle and Olly Woodburn.
It was a pivotal win for the Devonians and extended their winning streak to three games, after recent successes over Gloucester and Newcastle Falcons.
“It’s a big win for us,” said the Chiefs head coach at the final whistle. “To come through away from home, especially at this time of year, with a young team who are learning their trade, it’s hugely exciting and positive for the future.
“Yes, there are things we will need to go away and look at, especially that period just after half time, but ultimately the fighting spirit we showed and the way we came through, that shows what this team is all about.
“We celebrated just as much as winning the European Cup but, as I said, in the context of the season, it’s a big win and gives us something to chase after.”
Front and centre for the Chiefs was skipper Joe Simmonds, who produced a man-of-the-match display at Franklin’s Gardens.
Not only did he convert all four of Exeter’s tries, two of which were from the right touchline, but his all-round execution and game management was very much to the fore in a polished performance.
“Joe was back to his real best,” added Hepher. “He started to place today. By his own admission, he probably missed a few opportunities last week [at Newcastle], but today he was threatening the line, bringing the backs into play, and some of his kicking – particularly the two touchline conversions and the cross-field kick for Woody’s tries – they were hugely important.”
At the same time, full-back Josh Hodge continues to improve by the week and the fleet-footed runner capped another hugely impressive display with the game’s opening try.
“Josh is flying,” continued Hepher. “Speed is everything in this game and he had bundles of it. He’s a tough kid, who is strong on the ball. He’s learnt a lot over the last year and a half and he’s incredibly diligent and wants to improve all the time.
“Equally, he has incredibly energy levels and that rubs off on others. For me as a coach watching him, it’s pleasing to see him put his stamp on things.”