Match report: Exeter dominate Stormers
Exeter Chiefs are in the European Champions cup semi-final after an enthralling victory against South African side Stormers. It was Exeter’s best performance all season.
Following the dramatic 33-33 draw against Montpellier last weekend, this match gave the Devon side a home advantage after Exeter scored more tries. It proved to be a gift of an advantage for this fixture.
Exeter had the edge in the first 15 minutes as they worked hard in pressuring Stormers and finding space in the oppositions defence.
Their constant force resulted in Chiefs striking first, with a well-executed try by full back Tom Wyatt after a smart chip into his hands was well-taken.
From this, Exeter found their rhythm. Skipper Jack Nowell doubled Exeter’s lead, bursting through the Stormers defence and shimmying to touch down under the posts. The South African side couldn’t keep their renowned defensive integrity.
Space for Exeter opened up again enabling them to pocket three converted tries within half an hour. A formidable play from winger Olly Woodburn ruptured through the Stormers' defence where touched down to increase the advantage to 21-0 at half time.
After the break, it didn’t take long for Exeter to extend their lead after Sam Simmonds sprinted through an open gap and placed the ball under the posts.
An indefatigable Exeter defence finally broke down to allow Stormers to get a try back, compensating them from one which was chalked off.
But the Stormers looked like a completely different team from the lethargic display in the first half. An interception from their winger Hartzenburg meant he had free space to sprint 50 metre for another try.
Exeter finished the game with a strong maul in which 12 players helped move the ball over the line to see the Stormers off in some style, culminating an evening of strong composure as Exeter won scrum and line-out battles.
Sunday's quarter-final between La Rochelle and Saracens will determine who Exeter Chiefs will face in the semi-finals, which will be played at either Bordeaux or Bristol's At Ashton Gate.
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