Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Winning Penalty

Henry Slade's late penalty sealed Exeter's 44-41 win over Benetton, setting up a Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster. Jacob Umaga's try had given Benetton a 41-38 lead, but Slade's kicks in the 74th and 78th minutes secured the victory. The match saw a frantic first half, with Exeter leading 14-7 and 24-14 at different stages, before the hosts levelled at the break. The second half was equally intense, with Exeter regaining the lead through Harvey Skinner's try, only for Bautista Bernasconi to level the scores. Andrea Zambonin's try put Exeter back in front, but Umaga's penalty and try gave Benetton the lead. However, Slade's decisive kick ensured Exeter's win. In another match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defence held firm despite Toulouse's strong start, and Maxime Lamothe's try gave them the lead. Toulouse replied instantly, but Bordeaux rallied in the second half, with Matthieu Jalibert and Ben Tameifuna scoring tries. Arthur Retiere's late try and Maxime Lucu's penalty sealed the win for Bordeaux.