EXETER EDGED OUT

Exeter were edged out by Harlequins after a hard fought battle. The result is seen by many in the Rugby world as a sign of Harlequins dip in form, but the disappointment felt by the Chiefs at their failure to defeat the league leaders shows how lofty their ambitions have become in only their second season as a Premiership side.

The headlines will go to Rory Clegg for his calm under pressure last gasp penalty to seal an 11-9 victory for the Quins but the spirit and battle shown by Exeter tells a lot about how far they have come. They led for much of the game thanks to the reliable boots of both Mieres and Steenson.

When they were first promoted Exeter promised to fight and prove they were not just there to make up the numbers and after a solid first season they are looking likely to show further improvement in their finishing position this season. If you had had a bet on rugby in their first season, it would have been that Exteter would drop down.

Despite failing to see off Harlequins they will still have their sights set high. A Heineken Cup place is not out of the question, nor even is a decent attempt at making it to the end of season play offs. If the Chiefs can achieve this it will be highly deserved.

They have a strong set up on all levels and have easily taken the step up from Championship to Premiership. They’re view to build for the future and not rush their promotion is looking set to pay off and this young side has a great future ahead of them.

The tightness of the league table at the moment means that Exeter’s fortunes could go either way, but however it pans out they are certainly looking likely to remain a premiership side for years to come. Had Exeter players or fans been told two years ago they would be disappointed to lose to the dominant side in the league by two points they would not have believed you. This surely is a sign of how far they have come, and there is a lot to come from them yet.

What do you think Exeter fans? Were you disappointed? Tell us your views in the comments below, as well as any punts you’ve had, Six Nations Betting Tips, or even how your Sunday League side did at the weekend!