Exeter denied famous away win by last gasp Racing surge

Exeter Chiefs were left heartbroken in Paris after conceding a stoppage time try that forced a dramatic 31 31 draw against Racing 92 in the European Challenge Cup. A much changed Exeter side produced a hugely disciplined and courageous performance on French soil, only to see victory slip away in the final moments after sustained pressure from the hosts.

Bright Exeter response after early setback

Racing began the match with intent and were rewarded early when Kelo Labarbe crossed for the opening try following a sharp break down the right. Exeter responded impressively and showed no signs of being overawed by the atmosphere or occasion. Martin Moloney powered over under the posts after sustained pressure, before Kane James added a second try shortly after to give the visitors a 14 7 lead midway through the first half.

First half swings keep contest alive

The home side struck back when Selestino Ravutaumada finished in the corner after a missed tackle, but Exeter finished the half strongly. Lewis Pearson crossed after linking well with Rusi Tuima, who then capped a powerful individual display by scoring himself from close range following an excellent carry by Campbell Ridl. That burst ensured Exeter secured a valuable bonus point and took a 28 19 lead into the break.

Defensive resilience tested after the interval

Racing introduced several international forwards at the start of the second half and immediately lifted the intensity. Exeter were forced to defend for long periods and showed impressive organisation and discipline. That resistance was finally breached when Rusi Tuima was sent to the sin bin for collapsing a maul and Romain Taofifenua powered over from a short range line out with fifteen minutes remaining.

Ben Coen keeps Exeter in control

Despite growing pressure Exeter managed to regain some control through young fly half Ben Coen. The England Under 20 international calmly slotted a penalty to stretch the lead once again, making it five successful kicks from five attempts. The score offered brief breathing space, but Racing continued to apply pressure as Exeter were forced into further defensive stands.

Discipline issues open the door late on

Exeter’s task became even harder when replacement Greg Fisilau was yellow carded for a high tackle, leaving the Chiefs temporarily down to thirteen players. Although they survived that spell, Racing took advantage soon after when Nolann Donguy crossed in the corner from a quickly taken line out. With the conversion missed, Exeter still held a narrow lead entering the final minutes.

Final push breaks Exeter resistance

As the clock passed eighty minutes Racing relentlessly drove toward the Exeter line. After multiple phases of forward pressure, Antoine Latrasse forced his way over beneath the posts. Geronimo Prisciantelli added the straightforward conversion to complete the comeback and deny Exeter a rare away win in France.

Valuable point keeps Exeter in contention

The draw moves Exeter up to second place in their pool on eight points, just two behind leaders Stade Francais after two matches. Given the heavily rotated side selected by Rob Baxter, with only Charlie Chapman retained from the previous weekend’s win over Cheetahs, the performance will be viewed as encouraging despite the late disappointment.

Focus now shifts back to domestic action

Racing also made changes following their heavy defeat at Ulster, with Gael Fickou among those recalled, and will take confidence from their late resilience. Exeter now turn attention to domestic matters, with a crucial Premiership trip to Saracens looming next weekend as their demanding schedule continues.