Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Decisive Penalty

Henry Slade's late penalty sealed Exeter's 44-41 victory over Benetton, securing a Challenge Cup semi-final spot against Ulster. The hosts had taken the lead with 15 minutes remaining through Jacob Umaga's try, but Slade's leveler and subsequent winner sparked fury among the home fans. The first half was marked by a frantic pace, with Exeter leading 14-7 and then 24-14, before Benetton leveled the score at halftime. The second half saw multiple lead changes, with Harvey Skinner's try putting Exeter back in front, only for Bautista Bernasconi to level for Benetton. Andrea Zambonin's try gave Exeter a 38-31 lead, but Umaga's penalty and try put Benetton ahead. However, Slade's decisive kick ensured Exeter's victory. In another match, Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15 to set up a semi-final against Bath, with Maxime Lamothe, Matthieu Jalibert, Ben Tameifuna, and Arthur Retiere scoring tries for the winners.