Exeter Claims Victory Over Benetton with Slade's Winning Penalty

A dramatic penalty kick by Henry Slade in the 78th minute sealed Exeter's 44-41 win over Benetton, securing their spot in the Challenge Cup semi-final against Ulster. The match saw a series of lead changes, with Jacob Umaga's try giving Benetton a 41-38 lead with 15 minutes remaining. However, Slade's penalty leveled the score, and his subsequent kick won the game for Exeter. The first half was marked by a frantic pace, with Exeter taking a 14-7 lead through Olly Woodburn's score and a penalty try. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso's try and Slade's conversion and penalty extended Exeter's lead to 24-14. Benetton fought back, with Onisi Ratave's outstanding try and Umaga's conversion and penalty leveling the score at halftime. The second half saw multiple lead changes, with Harvey Skinner's converted try giving Exeter the lead, only for Bautista Bernasconi to drag Benetton back level. Andrea Zambonin's try from short range put Exeter up 38-31, but Umaga's penalty and try gave Benetton the lead. Ultimately, Slade's decisive penalty kick decided the outcome. In another match, Investec Champions Cup holders Bordeaux defeated Toulouse 30-15, setting up a semi-final against Bath. Bordeaux's defense held firm against Toulouse's strong start, and Maxime Lamothe's try off a maul gave them the lead. Toulouse replied instantly, but a red card for Dorian Aldegheri and a yellow card for Antoine Dupont hindered their chances. 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.