Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton With Slade's Winning Penalty

In a thrilling match, Exeter secured a 44-41 win over Benetton, thanks to a late penalty kick by Henry Slade, setting up a semi-final 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, and he sealed the victory with another kick in the 78th minute, sparking outrage among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frenetic pace, with Exeter leading 14-7 early on, courtesy of Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try. They extended their lead to 24-14 with Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's try and Slade's conversion and penalty. However, the hosts fought back, with Onisi Ratave's outstanding try and Umaga's conversion and penalty levelling the score at the break. The second half saw Exeter regain the lead through Harvey Skinner's converted try, only for Bautista Bernasconi to drag Benetton back level. The visitors then took a 38-31 lead when Andrea Zambonin crossed over, but Umaga's penalty and try put Benetton in front. Nevertheless, Slade's decisive kick ensured Exeter's victory. Meanwhile, in another match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Despite Toulouse's strong start, Bordeaux's defence held firm, and Maxime Lamothe's try off a maul put them ahead. Although Toulouse replied instantly, Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert collecting his own kick and diving over. Ben Tameifuna's try and Maxime Lucu's long-range penalty sealed the win, and Arthur Retiere's late try and Lucu's penalty ended any hopes of a Toulouse comeback.