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 semi-final matchup against Ulster in Belfast. The hosts had taken the lead with 15 minutes remaining through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's penalty leveled the score, and he sealed the victory with another penalty in the 78th minute, sparking frustration among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frenetic pace, with Exeter taking a 14-7 lead through Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try. They extended their advantage to 24-14 after Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's try and Slade's conversion and penalty. However, the hosts drew level at halftime following an outstanding try by Onisi Ratave and Umaga's conversion and penalty. The second half saw Exeter regain the lead through Harvey Skinner's converted try, only for Bautista Bernasconi to level the score for Benetton. Exeter then took a 38-31 lead when Andrea Zambonin scored, but Umaga's penalty and try put Benetton ahead for the first time since the eighth minute. Ultimately, Slade's kicking proved decisive. In another quarter-final matchup, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defense held firm despite Toulouse's strong start, and Maxime Lamothe's try off a maul gave them the lead. Toulouse responded instantly, but a red card for Dorian Aldegheri late in the first half hindered their progress. Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert and Ben Tameifuna scoring tries, and Maxime Lucu landing a long-range penalty to seal the win.