Leicester Tigers Make a Strong Start Under Michael Cheika
In a thrilling encounter at Sandy Park, Leicester Tigers kicked off the Michael Cheika era with a hard-fought victory over Exeter Chiefs. The match was a test of grit and determination, with Tommy Reffell emerging as the hero for the Tigers, scoring a crucial try on the final play of the game. Despite being reduced to 14 men in the closing minutes due to a red card for Solomone Kata, Leicester showed resilience and character to secure the win.
Cheika’s Impact on Leicester Tigers
Michael Cheika’s arrival at Leicester Tigers has already made a significant impact on the team’s performance. Known for his no-nonsense approach and emphasis on physicality, Cheika has instilled a sense of belief and determination in the squad. The victory over Exeter Chiefs was a statement of intent from the Tigers, showing that they are capable of competing with the best teams in the league under Cheika’s leadership.
“We talked about playing the long game, not being too anxious to get things going,” Cheika commented after the match. “You need to be in the pressure cooker of the game and be prepared to defend for long periods. I felt like the way we played the long game, we were always going to be in it right until the end.”
One player who exemplified the team’s fighting spirit was Olly Cracknell, who tragically lost his father recently but chose to play in honor of his family’s wishes. Cheika praised Cracknell’s performance, highlighting his dedication and commitment to the team despite facing personal challenges.
Exeter Chiefs Disappointed by Loss
On the other side, Exeter Chiefs were left reeling by the defeat, especially after taking the lead in the second half. Despite their efforts, Exeter could not hold off Leicester’s relentless pressure, ultimately conceding two late tries that sealed their fate.
“We hoped we were further down the line than to look so callow in the last 20 minutes,” Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter admitted. The absence of key players like Henry Slade and Jacques Vermeulen may have contributed to Exeter’s struggles in closing out the match, as Leicester capitalized on their opponents’ shortcomings to secure the win.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams, with momentum swinging back and forth throughout the game. However, it was Leicester Tigers’ resilience and determination that ultimately proved decisive in securing the victory.
Overall, the match was a testament to the competitive nature of Premiership Rugby and the fierce rivalry between Leicester Tigers and Exeter Chiefs. With Michael Cheika at the helm, Leicester Tigers have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with this season, setting the stage for an exciting campaign ahead.