Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Winning Penalty

Henry Slade's late penalty sealed Exeter's 44-41 win over Benetton, securing a Challenge Cup semi-final spot against Ulster in Belfast. The hosts had taken the lead with 15 minutes remaining through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's penalty levelled the score four minutes later, before he kicked the winning penalty in the 78th minute, sparking outrage among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frenetic pace, with Exeter leading 14-7 after Olly Woodburn's early score and a penalty try. They extended their lead to 24-14 after Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's try and Slade's conversion and penalty. However, the hosts levelled the score at the break through Onisi Ratave's outstanding try, Umaga's conversion, and penalty. Exeter regained the lead in the second half with Harvey Skinner's converted try, but Bautista Bernasconi's score brought Benetton level. The visitors then took a 38-31 lead when Andrea Zambonin crossed over, but Umaga's penalty and try gave Benetton the lead. Ultimately, Slade's boot proved decisive. In another match, Investec Champions Cup holders Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defence held firm against Toulouse's strong start, before Maxime Lamothe powered over in the 23rd minute. The visitors responded instantly, but a red card for Dorian Aldegheri late in the first half gave Bordeaux an advantage. Toulouse took the lead in the second half, but Bordeaux rallied with Matthieu Jalibert's try and Ben Tameifuna's score, before Arthur Retiere sealed the win with a late try.