Chiefs U18s side to face Bristol

By Mark Stevens
21/1/18

Exeter Chiefs Under-18s will be looking to return to winning ways when they today play host to rivals Bristol in their latest Premiership U-18s fixture at Sandy Park (1pm).

Having kicked off their season with an excellent 48-17 home win over London Irish, the Chiefs came unstuck a week ago when they lost 41-33 to Gloucester in a high scoring encounter at Dean Close School.

Today, though, Academy coach Gareth Elliott is hoping home advantage, plus the incentive of playing ahead of the Exeter Braves in Aviva A League action, can inspire his side to rediscover their winning formula.

“We are excited to be playing back at Sandy Park, especially with it being as a curtain raiser for the A-League,” he said.“The A League team has a number of players that have played in this U18s side in previous seasonsand who are now pushing for involvement in the senior side, so that is a great example for the current squad that can see the opportunities available for them if they work hard at their game and continue to progress.

“This is the last game before a break week and the squad are really motivated to put in a strong performance. Hopefully, there will be a good crowd there that will be able to see young talented players in a high tempo game.”

With no game next week, the U18s players are going to get the chance to train alongside the senior squad as they prepare for their upcoming Anglo-Welsh Cup clash with Worcester Warriors.

As for today’s opponents, Elliott is aware of the threat they pose to his side and has warned them to expect a stiff battle.

“Bristol will be a tough challenge this weekend,” he added. “From watching them in action, they are very dangerous in attack, especially as the game breaks up. It's important that we focus on our strengths and show our qualities on Sunday, that is what I am looking forward to seeing.”

CHIEFS UNDER-18s SIDE TO FACE BRISTOL

15 James Tucker
14 Kian Atkinson
13 Luke Flack
12 Robbie Weeks
11 Archie Hill
10 Olly Toomey
9 Sam Maunder (capt)
1 Alfie Petch
2 Will Ridout
3 Henry Trudgill
4 Lewis Pearson
5 Joseph Parker-Cooke
6 Flynn Elworthy
7 Richard Capstick
8 Rus Tuima

16 Harvey Dunn
17 Oliver Andrews
18 Eliot Salt
19 Cory Teague
20 Bryn-Lee Jago
21 James Tait
22 Francesco Scaramaglia
23 Dan Lilley