Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Winning Penalty

Exeter secured a narrow 44-41 win over Benetton, thanks to a late penalty kick by Henry Slade, setting up a Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster. The match saw a series of lead changes, with Jacob Umaga's try giving Benetton a 41-38 lead, only for Slade to level the score and then seal the win with another penalty. The first half was marked by a frantic pace, with Exeter leading 14-7 and 24-14 at different stages, before Benetton leveled the score at the break. The second half saw multiple lead changes, with Harvey Skinner's try and Andrea Zambonin's score putting Exeter in front, only for Bautista Bernasconi and Umaga to drag Benetton back into the game. Meanwhile, in another match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defense held firm against Toulouse's strong start, with Maxime Lamothe scoring the opening try. Toulouse replied instantly, but a red card for Dorian Aldegheri and a yellow card for Antoine Dupont hindered their chances. Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert, Ben Tameifuna, and Arthur Retiere scoring tries to seal the win.