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 through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's boot leveled the score and ultimately won the game in the 78th minute, sparking outrage among the home fans. An action-packed first half saw Exeter lead 14-7 after Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try, before extending their advantage to 24-14. However, Benetton fought back to level the score at halftime. The second half was just as intense, with Exeter regaining the lead through Harvey Skinner's converted try, only for Bautista Bernasconi to drag Benetton back level. The visitors then went 38-31 up after Andrea Zambonin's try, but Umaga's penalty and subsequent try gave Benetton the lead. Ultimately, Slade's penalty had the final say. In another match, Investec Champions Cup holders Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defense 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 briefly took the lead in the second half, but Bordeaux rallied with tries from Matthieu Jalibert and Ben Tameifuna, before Arthur Retiere touched down their fourth try to seal the win.