Exeter’s head coach, Rob Baxter, has expressed his deep admiration for Henry Slade following the player’s last-minute conversion, which secured an exhilarating 19-18 victory for the Chiefs at Toulon in the Investec Champions Cup.
Baxter commended Slade for his exceptional performance and described the game-winning kick as “incredible.” He also reflected on the remarkable journey that Slade has undergone over the past decade, from his early days at Exeter to becoming an international player and achieving numerous accolades in his career.
The 30-year-old’s successful kick came after Jacques Vermeulen’s try, marking Exeter’s fifth-ever Champions Cup victory in France. Baxter praised Slade’s composure under pressure and highlighted his potential for continued success in the future.
Despite the hostile atmosphere at the Stade Mayol, Baxter revealed that he had full confidence in Slade’s ability to deliver in the clutch moment. He disclosed that Slade is accustomed to facing jeers from opposing players during team meetings and credited the player for thriving under such circumstances. According to Baxter, the taunting from the crowd only served to inspire Slade to produce his best on the pitch.
Baxter commended Slade’s courage and described the game-winning moment as truly incredible. He expressed his delight at the prospect of witnessing Slade’s ongoing success in the seasons to come, emphasizing the player’s dedication and determination as key factors in his ability to deliver extraordinary performances.
The Exeter boss’s high praise for Slade reflects the team’s elation following their remarkable victory against Toulon. The Chiefs’ triumph in France stands as a testament to their resilience and determination on the European stage, and Slade’s pivotal contribution in securing the win has undoubtedly solidified his reputation as an exceptional talent in rugby.
As Exeter continues to make strides in the Champions Cup, the team can draw inspiration from Slade’s match-winning performance and use it as motivation for their future endeavours in the competition. With the skill and determination demonstrated by players like Slade, the Chiefs are well-positioned to achieve further success in the tournament and make a lasting impression on the European rugby scene.