Exeter College book final place

By Mark Stevens
18/11/16

Rob Gibson has spoken of his delight after his Exeter College side won through to a major national final next month.

A 37-7 win over Henley College ensured Exeter topped South Pool Division 1 in the AASE League, a point ahead of arch rivals Hartpury College, who have appeared in ever final since the competition's inception.

Gibson will lead his side into battle at Saracens' Allianz Park on Friday, December 2 when Gosforth Academy - who defeated Worcester 40-0 in their last play-off game - will provide the opposition.

It's rich reward for a season which has also seen a number of the Exeter College youngsters feature within the Chiefs set-up. Prop Marcus Street led the way, debuting at the age of 17 for the first team in their recent Anglo-Welsh Cup clash with Cardiff Blues, while Dan Swain, Sam Daly and Joe Snow have all figured for the Exeter Braves this term.

Back in the AASE League for the first time in five years, Gibson has praised the relationship created by Exeter College and the Chiefs to provide a meaningful route through to senior rugby.

"Obviously we are delighted to have got through to the final," said Gibson. "We don't know too much about Gosforth at this stage, but any side that gets through to a final must have something about them. No doubt we will look at them in the build-up to our game, but a lot of our own focus will be on ourselves and building on what we have done well so far this season."

Having been part of the Chiefs Academy set-up for a number of years, New Zealander Gibson has helped in the development of a number of current Chiefs, including the likes of Ben Moon, Dave Ewers and Sam Hill, and insists the support he gets from the Aviva Premiership club is invaluable to player development.

"The support the College receive from the Chiefs is terrific," added Gibson. "Already the rewards are bearing fruits with several players gaining 'A' league experience while still at College, while Marcus Street made his Chiefs debut last weekend at the age of 17 against Cardiff. Having that pathway for players to follow is key to our success and long may it continue."

Gibson has also praised the College - who have previously won the AASE Bowl, as well as the Daily Mail National Cup - for their own significant investment in a newly refurbished gym and rugby offices, which he says has helped add to their success this term

Exeter Chiefs Academy manager Robin Cowling said: "Huge congratulations must go to Rob, his fellow coaches and the players at Exeter College for what is an outstanding achievement. A great deal of time and effort has been put in by all of them to get to this stage, but now they have this one final challenge to overcome.

"The progress they have shown this season is there for all to see and now they have given themselves a super chance of picking up some major silverware.

"As a club we are profiting hugely from the work being carried out at our three Academy centres, including that of Exeter College, and the future certainly looks encouraging for young players in the Westcountry."