The conclusion of the Premiership season has unveiled two significant truths, highlighted under the bright sunshine in the east Midlands. The first has been exemplified by Exeter, whose lacklustre performance served to emphasize that despite months of hard work, failing to secure a playoff spot renders all efforts futile. The second truth has been demonstrated by Leicester, whose dynamic attacking display underscored the fact that even impressive performances cannot erase the disappointment of an inconsistent season.
Leicester emerged triumphant on the day, securing a morale-boosting victory in front of a nearly full stadium, with a tally of four tries. However, despite this victory, questions still linger among their supporters regarding why a team boasting numerous Test players, including two World Cup winners, concluded the season with an even tally of nine wins and nine defeats.
The head coach of Leicester, Dan Kelleher, commented, “There’s always that sense of what-if after a good performance at home. No one has died. The sun will come up tomorrow.”
While Leicester’s supporters celebrated the win, it was a devastating blow for Exeter’s fans. Their team, entering the match with high expectations, understood that only a win could secure them a playoff spot. However, their dreams were shattered as the final outcome revealed otherwise. Rob Baxter, Exeter’s coach, acknowledged the disappointment, stating, “It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster. Most people said we’d be scrabbling around the bottom of the Premiership. There’s been growth and learning. Today was really important.”
The match began positively for Exeter, with Immanuel Feyi-Waboso scoring the opening try. However, both teams struggled with cohesion, marked by frequent knock-ons and misplaced passes. Leicester capitalized on Exeter’s defensive errors, ultimately leading to their success.
Players such as Ollie Hassell-Collins and Jack van Poortvliet of Leicester significantly contributed to their team’s lead, with Hassell-Collins overcoming two defenders to score a try and van Poortvliet adding to the tally. Two yellow cards for deliberate knock-ons further complicated Exeter’s position, culminating in a tough task for the team. Despite valiant efforts, Exeter’s fate was sealed as Leicester’s Mike Brown secured their fourth try, with Exeter failing to mount a comeback.
In a fitting end to the match, two of Exeter’s replacements, Dan Frost and Ross Vintcent, each scored a try, while Jasper Wiese of Leicester received a red card. Ultimately, Exeter’s playoff hopes were extinguished, as they fell short of securing a spot in the semi-finals.