Practice makes perfect for the Chiefs

By Alfie Martin
26/3/19

Exeter’s Alec Hepburn commended the preparation of his Chiefs’ team-mates after they sealed their place in this season’s Gallagher Premiership play-offs in record time.

Sandy Park was packed to the rafters as Rob Baxter’s side notched up their 14th league win of the season, seeing off Westcountry rivals Bath with another impressive display.

Ollie Devoto and Jack Yeandle bagged first half tries for the hosts, who led 17-10 at the break, before a penalty try and a late touchdown for Olly Woodburn sealed a 29-10 success for the Chiefs.

Exeter’s win ensured they have booked one of the four play-off spots, a record achievement for the club, considering there are still five rounds of the scheduled season to go. They head the table on 71 points, nine clear of next-best Saracens and 22 points clear of fourth-placed Harlequins, who occupy the last play-off berth.

Last season Baxter’s side topped the table at the end of the regular season with 85 points – and they remain firmly on course to better that tally this term. The league record is 87 points, which was set by Saracens during the 2013/14 season.

For England international Hepburn, however, the fact the Chiefs got the job done against Bath was particularly pleasing and he was quick to applaud the efforts of the ‘Men in Black’.

“Bath were really physical today and they took it to us, especially in the first 20 minutes,” said Hepburn. “Overcoming that challenge and getting a bonus point win makes for such a good feeling,

“Our preparation in the week was good. We had a bit of time off at the start of the week heading into the contest, so I think everyone was on task and ready for the challenge at hand. Obviously, this being a derby game brings a lot more emotional preparation and that definitely showed in training.”

Round 17 marked the first weekend of top-flight action since the closing of the Guinness Six Nations Championship – and with a host of international players back in the mix across the division, Hepburn insists that the momentum must continue in the Chiefs’ favour.

“It’s nice to have everyone back. International periods are always a disjointed time when some people are in and out of training, so there’s always that element of inconsistency. However, it’s great to have the squad back together so we can narrow in on getting some good results.”

With a semi-final place safely in the bag, the Chiefs know they cannot afford to take their foot off the gas as they seek out full rewards from the domestic season.

“It’s great to seal our semi-final place, but what we really want is a home semi-final,” continued the 25-year-old. “We’ve still got a few games to go and we know from before that a home semi-final sets us in good stead. Running out to a sell-out crowd here at Sandy Park makes all the difference.”