From Zero to the Top? Exeter Chiefs are on a remarkable journey, potentially going from the bottom of the PREM table last year to the top spot this Christmas! But how did they pull off such a stunning turnaround? Let's dive in.
Last season was a struggle for the Exeter Chiefs. They were searching for their first win, but now, they're a team reborn. They've only lost one of their first six PREM games and are performing well in the EPCR Challenge Cup. If they win against Saracens and other results go their way, they could be named Christmas number one for the first time since 2018.
The Recipe for Revival:
This drastic change didn't happen overnight. Exeter has undergone significant changes during the off-season. Rob Baxter, the coach, has taken a more hands-on approach, bringing back the tactics that led them to become PREM champions twice and win the Investec Champions Cup in 2020. New attack coach Dave Walder has also quickly improved the team's backline.
They also strengthened their team with new players. They signed Wallabies duo Tom Hooper and Len Ikitau, along with Springbok hooker Joseph Dweba, Italian internationals Andrea Zambonin and Stephen Varney, Georgian prop Bachuki Tchumbadze, and Waratahs hooker Julian Heaven.
"Things feel a lot more positive," says Baxter. "We're looking to what comes next." He emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation. The goal isn't just being second in the PREM table, but creating a good team. They've focused on the importance of individual players and a good pre-season to positively impact the team.
The Coaching Philosophy:
Baxter highlights the importance of showing players both the good and bad aspects of their character to make them stronger. The coaches aim to show the players how to be successful and to believe in it. This creates a cycle where the players drive the team forward. The coaches keep encouraging this momentum to help the team improve. They're keeping it simple but in the right ways.
The Players' Perspective:
Ethan Roots, a back-rower, recently signed a new two-year deal with the Chiefs. He says that the team will fight for every inch and point. The team has a good group that's instilled this mentality, and they aim to continue it for the rest of the season.
Roots credits their improvement to the experiences of last season. They've had good signings, and the young players have improved. They're building momentum with the same squad, and winning helps. There's a buzz in the changing room, and they're seeing those small things helping them win games.
But here's where it gets controversial...
- The 'Underdog' Effect: Could the experience of a tough season actually be a secret weapon? Many teams falter after a period of success, but Exeter seems to have used their struggles to build a stronger, more resilient squad.
- The Power of Team Spirit: The emphasis on the team's character and the buzz in the changing room suggests that the Chiefs have cultivated a strong team spirit. Is this the key ingredient for their success?
What do you think? Are the Exeter Chiefs on the path to lasting success? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you agree that last year's experience was crucial for their current form?
