Chiefs set to Trail-blaze in Cup showdown

For the first time ever, Exeter Chiefs and Ealing Trailfinders will go head-to-head as they battle for a place in the Premiership Rugby Cup final this weekend at Sandy Park.

Ealing, a dominant force in the Championship, have been knocking on the door of the Premiership for years. Since earning promotion from National League One in 2014/15, they have regularly topped the second-tier table, only missing out on the title to Jersey Reds in 2022/23.

With a squad boasting both international imports and Premiership experience, Ealing are no strangers to high-level competition. Players like Tom Collins and Mike Willemse bring top-flight pedigree, while past Trailfinders stars such as Carlo Tizzano have gone on to shine in Super Rugby.

Exeter fans may recognise a few familiar names in the opposition ranks. Former Chiefs lock Sean Lonsdale now plies his trade in London, while this season, Jimmy Roots and Will Goodrick-Clarke made the switch in the opposite direction.

Ealing are Championship leaders, sitting 13 points clear of their nearest rivals, Bedford Blues, having won 11 of 12 league matches. Their powerful forward pack, backed by an attacking backline often steered by Craig Hampson, makes them a formidable opponent.

The Chiefs will need to be at their best to keep their Premiership Rugby Cup dream alive, with the winner booking a place in the final. Can Exeter’s home advantage prove the difference, or will Ealing cause an upset at Sandy Park?

Kick-off is set for 12.15pm on Saturday, with Chiefs fans hoping to see their side take another step towards silverware.