A dramatic comeback and a controversial finish! That's the story of Exeter Chiefs' European Challenge Cup match against Stade Francais.
A 22-point lead evaporated! Exeter, with their backs against the wall, faced a determined Stade side. But here's where it gets controversial...
Exeter's early dominance saw them race into a 17-0 lead at halftime, with tries from Paul Brown-Bampoe and Scott Sio. However, the second half belonged to Stade, who fought back with a series of tries and a relentless penalty onslaught.
And this is the part most people miss: Exeter's discipline crumbled under pressure. Two yellow cards and a series of penalties gifted Stade the momentum and the lead.
Tries from Giorgi Melikidze and Thibaut Motassi, along with a penalty try, brought Stade back into the game. With Exeter down to 13 men, Charles Laloi's try put the hosts ahead.
But Exeter, despite being short-handed, fought back with a drop goal from Henry Slade. It was a moment of brilliance, but it wasn't enough.
Leo Barre's penalty, after another Exeter error, sealed their fate. Stade's resilience and Exeter's indiscipline combined to create an unforgettable comeback.
The loss means Exeter remain second in Pool Three, unable to win the group as Stade now have a commanding lead.
So, what do you think? Was it a case of Exeter's discipline letting them down, or did Stade's tactical brilliance shine through? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Teams:
Stade Francais: Jonas; Laloi, Marchant, Vili, Etien; Foursans-Bourdette, Motassi; Iscaro, Nicotera, Alo-Emile, Gabrillagues (capt), Turagacoke, Scelzo, Hirigoyen, Mapu.
Replacements: Garcia Albo, Alo-Emile, Melikidze, Pesenti, Briatte, Delbouis, Abadie, Barre.
Exeter: Woodburn; Feyi-Waboso, Slade, Rigg, Brown-Bampoe; Haydon-Wood, Chapman; Sio, Dweba, Tchumbadze, Jenkins (capt), Zambonin, Hooper, Roots, Fisilau.
Replacements: Yeandle, Goodrick-Clarke, Roots, Tuima, Pearson, James, Cairns, Coen.
Yellow cards: Fisilau (64), Pearson (65).
Referee: Craig Evans (Wales).
