Wasps 20-23 Exeter: Five talking points from the Premiership final | Robert Kitson


The most gripping Premiership final proved a more accurate reflection of English rugby than any Twickenham international

The Premiership has known some staggering finales but never such a roller-coaster of emotions. Chiefs looked to have taken control when they led 14-3 after just 28 minutes; for Wasps to respond with 17 unanswered points was remarkable. Exeter’s storming response, with Wasps’ having to repel a 34-phase attack at a crucial juncture of the second half, also summed up both sides’ unbelievable resolve and collective spirit. Extra-time, with both sides on their last legs, was almost too tense to watch even before Gareth Steenson’s clinching penalty. A place-kicking contest would have been horrendous.

Related: Exeter and Wasps serve up final thriller to show best of English club rugby | Michael Aylwin

Related: We want to be best rugby team in Europe, says Exeter chairman Tony Rowe

Continue reading...