Late try denies Exeter Chiefs a famous victory in Paris thriller

Exeter Chiefs were denied a memorable European Challenge Cup victory as they conceded a stoppage-time try to draw 31-31 with Racing 92 in Paris.

Exeter fell behind early after Kelo Labarbe crossed for the hosts, but the English side responded impressively through tries from Martin Moloney and Kane James to lead 14-7 midway through the first half.

Racing winger Selestino Ravutaumada briefly swung momentum back towards the home side, only for Exeter’s forwards Lewis Pearson and Rusi Tuima to power over before the interval, securing a crucial bonus point and a commanding half-time advantage.

The Chiefs showed resilience after the break, repelling wave after wave of Racing pressure. However, their defence was finally breached when Romain Taofifenua forced his way over from close range with 15 minutes remaining, capitalising on Tuima’s spell in the sin bin.

Exeter regained some control when England Under-20 fly-half Ben Coen calmly slotted a penalty with 10 minutes left, but further pressure followed. Nolann Donguy scored an unconverted try after Greg Fisilau was also shown a yellow card, setting up a tense finale.

Despite Exeter’s efforts to hold firm, Racing surged deep into Chiefs territory in the final moments. After multiple phases, Antoine Latrasse crashed over beneath the posts, and Geronimo Prisciantelli’s conversion levelled the scores as the clock passed 80 minutes.

The draw lifts Exeter to second place in their pool on eight points, two behind leaders Stade Français after two matches.