Chiefs Aim for Strong Home Opener Performance
As the Exeter Chiefs prepare for their highly anticipated home opener, they face the Newcastle Red Bulls on Saturday at Sandy Park. This match marks the second round of the PREM rugby season, following a thrilling 33-33 draw against Northampton Saints. Captain Dafydd Jenkins leads the Chiefs, aiming for a strong performance after the late comeback that left the squad feeling optimistic.
Chiefs’ Strategy for the Home Opener
Rob Baxter, the Chiefs’ director of rugby, highlighted the importance of maintaining resilience throughout the match. He noted that while Northampton might feel disappointed from their game last week, the Chiefs are eager to build on their positives. “We’ve shown we can score tries and earn points away from home. That resilience will be crucial moving forward,” Baxter stated.
Starting Line-Up and Changes
The front row remains unchanged, featuring Will Goodrick-Clarke, Joseph Dweba, and Josh Iosefa-Scott. Jenkins teams up with international player Andrea Zambonin in the second row. After missing last week’s game due to a fitness test, Ethan Roots returns, starting alongside Greg Fisilau and Ross Vintcent, who scored twice in the previous match.
Scrum-half Stephen Varney and fly-half Harvey Skinner maintain their positions, supported in the center by Henry Slade and Ben Hammersley. Dan John will take over at full-back in place of Josh Hodge, who is serving a three-match suspension due to a red card. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso and Paul Brown-Bampoe will fill the wings for the upcoming match.
Bench Strength and Coverage
Baxter has opted for a 6-2 split on the bench for the second consecutive week. The replacement front row consists of Jack Yeandle, Kwenzo Blose, and newcomer Bachuki Tchumbadze. Rusi Tuima, Lewis Pearson, and Kane James provide additional cover for the second and back rows, while Charlie Chapman and Nick Lilley will support the back line.
Match Details
- Game Date: Saturday
- Kick-off Time: 15:00
- Location: Sandy Park, Exeter
- Live Broadcast: TNT Sports
Tickets for the match are still available, providing fans the chance to witness the Chiefs in action as they strive for a strong performance in their home opener against Newcastle Red Bulls.
