Baxter looks ahead to crunch European quarter-final
Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter has revealed his side are confident going into their European Champions Cup Quarter-final.
With the club having qualified for their very first European Cup quarter final, as well as being second in the AVIVA Premiership, it is an exciting period for the Chiefs as they visit an in form Wasps side on Saturday.
Ahead of the historic tie for the club Baxter says his side are expecting a tough match against the side, who Chiefs beat 41-27 in the Premiership earlier in the season.
He said: “We were really pleased with how we played that day, but we are expecting it to be a really tough game. Ultimately any win gives you a bit of confidence.”
With Wasps only two points behind Baxter’s men in the Premiership, the Chiefs boss has praised their organisation and counter attacking ability, as the opposition bid to put the south west side under pressure for the rest of the season.
He said: “They are the most dangerous team on the break, and they’ve got numerous individuals who can make something happen. I think the thing that has really knocked them on a level is the general understanding and organisation that allows those individuals to thrive.”
The Chiefs travel to the Ricoh Arena well aware that Wasps have won nine of their last ten matches in all competitions, but despite their good form Baxter reminded that his side are on a good run after dismantling Worcester Warriors last weekend.
Baxter continued: "The frame of mind for us is to go there and push our game on them, play to the very best of our ability and we’ll take what comes.”
With the club having progressed hugely in recent years, and sitting in an excellent position to get Chiefs fans excited, Baxter thinks the side should begin to get used to playing significant matches.
He explained: “I think we are in a genuine position where we should be looking forward and expecting to be involved in more of these games in the future.”
Exeter Chiefs kick off their Champions Cup quarter-final on Saturday at 3.15pm.
Photo: Gary Day/Pinnacle
