Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Winning Penalty

In a nail-biting finish, Henry Slade's late penalty secured Exeter's 44-41 win over Benetton, setting up a Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster. The hosts had taken the lead through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's kicks leveled and then won the game, sparking outrage among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frantic pace, with Exeter leading 14-7 after Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try, before extending their lead to 24-14. However, Benetton leveled the score by the break. The second half saw Exeter regain the lead through Harvey Skinner's try, only for Benetton to draw level once more. The visitors eventually took a 38-31 lead, but Umaga's penalty and try put Benetton in front. Slade's decisive penalty sealed the win for Exeter. In another match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath, with Maxime Lamothe and Matthieu Jalibert scoring crucial tries for the French side.