Exeter Chiefs vs Sale Sharks on 31 January
The Premier League Cup clash between Exeter Chiefs and Sale Sharks on January 31st promises to be an electrifying encounter that could shape the direction of both teams’ tournament aspirations. With both sides boasting formidable squads, this game will be crucial in determining who can push further into the knockout stages. The match will be held at Sandy Park, Exeter’s fortress, where the home side will look to take advantage of the familiar ground. The weather is expected to be mild, with light winds, but it could still have an effect on ball handling and scrums, a key factor to watch as the game unfolds.
Exeter Chiefs: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Exeter Chiefs have had a strong run of form in their recent matches, winning four of their last five games in the Premier League Cup. Known for their powerful forward pack and dynamic backline, Exeter's game plan often revolves around maintaining possession through multi-phase attacks, forcing defensive lapses. Their set-piece is a key strength, with the scrum often providing them with the platform to dictate play. In the last match, Exeter dominated the breakdown area, winning 90% of their own scrums and 85% of lineouts.
Their tactical setup is a blend of structured and fast-paced rugby, utilizing their forwards in tight channels while their backs, led by the creative playmaking of their fly-half, look to exploit the space on the wings. Key players like lock Jonny Hill and flanker Sam Simmonds have been crucial, with Simmonds particularly dangerous on the attack, creating breaks and contributing to try-scoring opportunities. Exeter will be without their key prop, Harry Williams, who is suspended, but their depth in the front row should mitigate this blow. The Chiefs will be relying heavily on their engine room—forward domination will be key to their strategy.
Sale Sharks: Tactical Approach and Current Form
Sale Sharks have been in impressive form themselves, winning four of their last five games. Their play style is based on a strong forward presence, particularly in the scrums and mauls, with a commitment to physicality. The Sharks’ forward pack has been one of the most dominant in the competition, and they often use their strength to set up platform ball for their backs. They also employ a kick-heavy game plan, with their fly-half typically putting up box kicks to gain territory and force opposition errors. However, they will need to improve their discipline—Sale has been penalized heavily in recent games, with a staggering 12 penalties conceded per match on average.
Their key players include scrum-half Faf de Klerk, who brings sharp decision-making, and number eight Marlon Yard, whose ball-carrying ability in tight spaces is a critical asset for Sale. The Sharks will be without their star winger, Denny Solomona, due to injury, which could impact their backline play. Nevertheless, the Sale Sharks’ heavy pack will aim to take the game to Exeter, especially in the set-pieces, and assert dominance in the rucks and mauls. If they can control the breakdowns and force Exeter to play on the back foot, Sale will be in a strong position.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
In the last five meetings between these two teams, Exeter has come out on top three times, with Sale winning twice. However, in the most recent encounter, Sale edged Exeter out with a narrow 24-21 victory, which could give the Sharks an added boost heading into this match. Historically, these games have been tight, with both teams having moments of dominance and defensive resilience. Exeter’s home advantage will be a crucial psychological factor, but Sale’s recent victory over them will likely give them confidence, knowing they can challenge the Chiefs on their home turf.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The battle in the scrum will be crucial in this match, especially with both teams boasting formidable packs. Exeter's front row, even without Williams, will need to assert dominance, particularly in the early stages, to put pressure on Sale's scrum. This area could provide either side with the platform to dictate the pace of the game. Another key area to watch is the breakdown. Exeter’s dynamic back row, led by Sam Simmonds, will need to win the collisions and disrupt Sale’s ball at the ruck to prevent the Sharks from gaining quick ball for their backs. The backline contest will also be pivotal, with Exeter’s ability to create width on the attack potentially testing Sale’s defensive shape.
Match Scenario and Prediction
Based on the current form and tactical setups of both teams, Exeter will look to dominate the scrums and the breakdowns, using their forwards to control possession and set up attacks for their backs. However, Sale will challenge them physically, especially in the set-pieces, and will look to dominate the contact areas. Exeter’s strength at home and their comprehensive game plan, led by a disciplined forward pack and skillful backs, should give them an edge. While Sale will certainly pose a threat, especially with de Klerk’s tactical kicking and their powerful maul, Exeter’s home advantage and superior all-around game will likely see them edge out a narrow win.
Final Thoughts
This match will answer the question: Can Sale overcome their away form and topple the dominant Exeter Chiefs at home? With a battle of power, set-pieces, and tactical kicking, the Chiefs should have the edge on the day, but Sale’s physicality and discipline will be key in determining the outcome. The team that wins the battle of the breakdowns and controls territory with set-piece dominance will likely emerge victorious. It promises to be an intriguing and fiercely contested game.
