Exeter Chiefs overcome 16-point deficit to defeat Bath in semi-final
Exeter Chiefs have reached their first Premiership final since 2021 after overturning a 16-point half-time deficit to defeat defending champions Bath 27-26 at the Rec.
The visitors scored 17 unanswered points in a storming second-half revival to dethrone the title holders.
They will now face regular-season table-toppers Northampton Saints at Twickenham next Saturday.
A stunning second-half turnaround
The hosts appeared completely in control during the opening period, making light of Scottish fly-half Finn Russell’s absence.
They built a commanding 26-10 advantage by the interval, threatening to end their opponents’ proud flawless record in play-off fixtures.
However, the momentum shifted dramatically following the restart as the 2020 champions began a resilient fightback.
Tries from Ben Hammersley and Greg Fisilau brought the chasing side within touching distance of a remarkable upset.
Burger strikes late to seal Twickenham spot
Bath’s task grew significantly harder when winger Joe Cokanasiga was sent to the sin-bin during a crucial phase of the match.
Capitalising on their numerical advantage, Ethan Burger barrelled over the line to secure a stunning one-point victory.
The dramatic triumph maintains an incredible statistic for the triumphant club, who have won every play-off match in which they have featured.
They must now prepare for a formidable challenge at the national stadium against a Northampton team fresh from winning their own semi-final derby.
