Exeter Chiefs aim to end losing streak against Newcastle on October 17
- Exeter Chiefs have suffered a series of defeats, including dropping a significant lead in their recent match against Bristol, contributing to a five-match losing streak.
- The team is in a precarious position at the bottom of the Premiership table, facing pressure from opponents like Newcastle, who are also in search of their first win.
- Despite recent struggles and player injuries, director of rugby Rob Baxter is optimistic about an imminent resurgence for the team.
The Exeter Chiefs, once a dominant force in the Premiership with six consecutive final appearances from 2016 to 2021, are currently enduring a tough phase, burdened by a five-match losing streak. Their recent matches illustrate a troubling trend; they notably squandered a 32-12 lead against Bristol, culminating in a 40-35 defeat. High-stakes confrontations loom ahead, particularly against Newcastle, another struggling side desperate for a first win after losing 25 straight games. Rob Baxter, the director of rugby, acknowledges the mounting pressure on Exeter's players as they sit at the bottom of the league table. He emphasizes the need for composure during high-pressure situations to rectify their dismal run. Baxter expresses confidence that a turnaround is forthcoming, hinting at a forthcoming resurgence in their performance. The squad has also been challenged by injuries, notably missing key players such as England center Henry Slade and Wales captain Dafydd Jenkins, which has impacted the team's overall stability and performance. The emergence of new talents like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso offers a glimmer of hope, yet the team searches for a solid foundation to rebuild its successes. As they prepare to take on Newcastle, both teams are aware of the high stakes involved. With Baxter's conviction in their ability to improve, there is a palpable tension surrounding the impending match, raising the question of which team will break their losing streak first.