“Two households, both alike in dignity. In fair Verona, where we lay
our scene. From ancient grudge break to new mutiny, where civil blood makes
civil hands unclean.” While the Devonshire city may seem far removed from
Northern Italy, there is plenty to liken the semi-final clash between Exeter
& Saracens to a Shakespearean classic.
A titanic battle between two
English powerhouses is set to take place in a repeat of last year’s final, as
Exeter host Saracens at Sandy Park on Saturday. The fixture has all the makings
of an explosive drama. Saracens, a dynasty of success and pragmatism, seeking a
back-to-back Europe & league double face the beauty & romance of plucky
underdog come mighty force, Exeter, hoping to avenge their 28-20 loss at
Twickenham last year.
Saracens, the visitors, are hot
off their Champions Cup victory over Clermont last weekend. They, once again,
produced a professional performance, where rock-solid defence and clinical
attack combined to overcome a dangerous Clermont side. It’s that style of
performance that continues to serve them so well for season on season. While
third in the league may not seem as impressive as Saracens lofty standards
require, they have always produced on the big stages when it matters, whether
it be at Thomond Park, Welford Road or the Stade Mayol. However, this may prove
the ultimate test of the Wolfpacks mental strength.
With
the hangover of their European success, and a significantly shorter turnaround
than Exeter, the vital preparation in the Saracens machine may be hard pressed.
There are also a number of Saracens players that have been rightly called up to
represent the Lions & other international duties this summer. With tour
dates looming, it could play of the minds of some of Saracens key star players.
Then there is Saracens inconsistent away form in the league this year. While
they did win early in the season against a stuttering Exeter side at Sandy Park,
there have been unexpected loses against Worcester and Gloucester and a disappointing
loss to Wasps, albeit with a weakened side. A trip to Sandy Park could pose a
major threat, although, if there is any team in the world capable of overcoming
these obstacles, it is, without a doubt, Saracens.
Exeter’s
remarkable rise through to the tier of the Aviva Premiership is well documented.
Since winning promotion in 2009 they have continued to improve year on year.
Under Rob Baxter, Exeter have built an incredible squad with solid performers
throughout and bright talent constantly produced through the Exeter academy.
No-one epitomises this better than Jack Maunder, the academy scrum half has
forced himself into first team reckoning and has, quite rightly, been
shortlisted for young player of the season and called up for England’s tour to
Argentina. Since promotion, Exeter have continued to progress up the league,
last year falling at the final hurdle against Saracens.
This
season, despite a slow start, Exeter have continued to shine and played some scintillating
rugby in the process. With 15 try bonus points, the most in the league, Exeter
pose a real attacking threat whoever the opposition is and are peaking at the
right moment. Sandy Park has also been a real fortress for the Chiefs, having
not lost at home in the league in 7 months. The strength in depth has shone
through this season, with plenty of competition for places as well as a very
strong showing in the Anglo-Welsh Cup, being pipped in the final by Leicester. Exeter
will have gained crucial experience in last season’s final loss, and, if the
trend is to continue, will be pushing to make the next step this season to be
crowned champions.
While
the winner of Wasps and Leicester will create a worthy opponent in the final at
Twickenham, this semi-final has all the makings of a final in itself. Two households, both ferocious and clinical at
the top of their game. An ancient grudge, with a score to settle from last
season and a brutal 13-13 draw at Allianz Park in January. Hopefully no blood
will be spilt, but expect neither side to take a backwards step. It has all the
makings of one the great games of knockout rugby in the Aviva Premiership, and
for either side, a loss would be a tragedy.
