Chiefs caught in Shark waters

Exeter Chiefs began their 2024/25 Investec Champions Cup campaign with a 39–21 defeat to reigning Challenge Cup champions Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban.

Despite a spirited performance, the Chiefs couldn’t capitalise on a late three-man advantage to secure a crucial bonus point. 

Exeter, still searching for their first win of the season after seven Premiership losses, started strongly. Hooker Dan Frost opened the scoring with a determined finish, even as the Chiefs were temporarily down to 14 men following Greg Fisilau’s yellow card for a high tackle. Frost added a second try just before halftime, but by then the Sharks had already taken control. 

The hosts’ clinical attacking prowess was on full display as Phepsi Buthelezi, Makazole Mapimpi, and Grant Williams crossed for three unanswered tries. South African captain Siya Kolisi added a fourth, strolling in to secure the bonus point before the interval, giving the Sharks a commanding 26–14 lead. 

Kolisi struck again early in the second half, capitalizing on a botched Exeter lineout to stretch the Sharks’ lead to 22 points. England winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso kept the Chiefs in the contest, expertly gathering a crossfield kick to score their third try.  

However, the Chiefs were unable to take full advantage when the Sharks were reduced to 12 men in the final minutes after three yellow cards in quick succession. A missed opportunity in the corner from Ben Hammersley left the Chiefs without the vital fourth try that would have earned them a bonus point. 

Exeter’s forward pack, led by Frost and former Shark Jacques Vermeulen, showed resilience against the formidable Sharks front row. Meanwhile, promising performances from Josh Hodge, Tommy Wyatt, and debutant Tamati Tua in the backline were positives for Rob Baxter’s side to build upon. 

The Chiefs, Champions Cup winners in 2020, now turn their attention to their next Pool One match against holders Toulouse at Sandy Park on Sunday, December 15 at 5:30pm, in what promises to be a must-win encounter.