OPPOSITION VIEW: Chiefs unchanged for Blues tussle
The view from the Exeter camp ahead of tomorrow's big semi-final
Exeter Chiefs will field an unchanged starting XV for tomorrow's Championship play-off semi-final against Bedford Blues.
After Chiefs' 53-10 demolition of Nottingham last weekend, and a fully fit squad to choose from, head coach Rob Baxter didn't feel the need to adjust his starting line-up.
Ahead of tomorrow's tussle, Baxter said: "We are aware of the threat Bedford will bring. They are a good cup knockout side and always thrive on the big occasion.
"But we are at home with a fully fit squad and we are a good side. If we turn up with the right attitude, we will be fine."
There are, however, two changes on the bench for Exeter. Chris Budgen is back on duty, after first being delayed in South Africa by the volcanic ash episode and then playing the Army v Navy game last weekend.
Number eight Richie Baxter, meanwhile, has also been named on the bench.
Rob Baxter said: "Richie has been added to the squad along with Chris Budgen and we are selecting from a full squad of players.
"They are in very good physical condition and that is testament to the way we have managed the season for them and also testament to our fitness and physio staff."
Like the players, Rob Baxter is looking forward to welcoming the Blues to Sandy Park and is hoping to make full use of their home advantage.
"Home advantage is massively important," he said.
"You don't want to have the hassle of travelling. Also for us, it's great to be here with our crowd because they have played a big part this season.
"We are in it together as a rugby club. The people who work on the ground, the girls in the office, the caterers and our supporters. Successful organisations thrive on working together."
Chiefs: 1 Sturgess, 2 Clark, 3 Tui, 4 Hayes (C), 5 Hanks, 6 Slade, 7 Scaysbrook, 8 Johnson, 9 Thomas, 10 Steenson, 11 Foster, 12 Rennie, 13 Sestaret, 14 Jess, 15 Dollman.
Replacements: 16 Alcott, 17 Budgen, 18 Gannon, 19 Baxter, 20 Stuart-Smith, 21 Gray, 22 McKenzie.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Bedford
Tuesday 14 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 5 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North west
