Exeter Chiefs Surge to Second in Premiership, Eyeing Title Contention
exeter Chiefs are enjoying a remarkable turnaround, currently holding second place in the Premiership table heading into 2026, a stark contrast to last season’s struggles. A dominant 24-10 victory over leicester Tigers in front of a 15,000 strong crowd showcased the growing strength of a team rapidly establishing itself as a force in English rugby.
From Bottom to Contenders: A Remarkable Ascent
Just 12 months ago, the Chiefs languished at the bottom of the league.Now, thay sit only a point behind league leaders Northampton, fueled by a renewed commitment to physicality and the emergence of exciting young talent.
Fisilau Leads the Charge, New Talent Emerges
The victory over Leicester was built on a foundation of physicality, spearheaded by a dominant display from No. 8 Greg Fisilau. His barnstorming runs set the tone,and the entire side demonstrated a defensive hunger that stifled the tigers’ attack. The emergence of young talent is also proving pivotal. Twenty-year-old Campbell Ridl, a product of Exeter University and england U20s, delivered a breathtaking solo try, showcasing impressive pace and skill.
Physicality Returns to the Exeter Game
A key element of Exeter’s resurgence is a renewed emphasis on physicality. The team has transitioned from a squad previously defined by players like Dave Ewers to a “heavy mob” fronted by Ethan Roots, instilling a hard-nosed mindset throughout the team. One particularly impactful moment came from Immanuel Feyi-Waboso,whose powerful tackle on ollie Hassell-Collins visibly disrupted the Leicester winger.
Tactical Acumen and Squad Depth
Head Coach Rob Baxter continues to demonstrate a keen eye for talent, nurturing raw potential and integrating it seamlessly into the squad. The Chiefs appear well-positioned for the season’s closing months, possibly benefiting from fresher legs compared to teams with larger international contingents, such as Bath.
Match Details: Exeter 24-10 Leicester
Exeter Chiefs: Woodburn; Feyi-waboso, Slade, Rigg (Haydon-Wood, 72), Ridl; Skinner, Varney; Sio (Goodrick-Clarke, 58), Dweba (Yeandle, 58), Tchumbadze (J Roots, 69), jenkins (capt), Zambonin (Tuima, 69), Hooper (James, 60), E Roots, Fisilau.
Replacements (not used): Chapman,John
Tries: Fisilau,Ridl,Varney.Cons: Slade 3. Pen: Slade.Sin-bin: Tuima, 75.
Leicester: Steward; Radwan, Perese (Hamer-Webb, 60), Kata (Bailey, 32), Hassell-Collins; Searle, Whiteley (Van Poortvliet, 32); Smith (Haffar, 63), Blamire (theobold-Thomas, 72), Heyes (Hurd, 50), Henderson, O Chessum (capt), Moro, Reffell (S Williams, 39), Cracknell (Thompson, 50).
Try: Henderson. Con: searle. Pen: Searle. Sin-bin: Searle, 61.
Referee: A Woodthorpe (RFU). Att: 15,000.
Leicester Struggle, Exeter Maintain Momentum
Despite a spirited effort, Leicester ultimately succumbed to Exeter’s pressure. Their head coach,Geoff Parling,acknowledged a lack of edge in the first 30 minutes,stating,”We’re not good enough yet to have those off days.” Exeter’s own coach, Dave Walder, expressed a desire for greater accuracy, but remained optimistic, noting that if the team maintains its current physical appetite, “there will be plenty more good days to come.”
