Exeter Chiefs: Dave Ewers says ‘it’s all to play for’ in Champions Cup second leg against Munster

Stan Wilson

Exeter back-row Dave Ewers refuses to grow complacent after a narrow victory over Munster at Sandy Park on Saturday and is certain that the Chiefs “have to approach it (the second leg) like any other game”.

The Devon-based side will make the trip across the Irish Sea this weekend to Thomond Park to face off in the deciding fixture with Munster as they hold their slim 13-8 lead from the first leg.

Integral to this Exeter side bidding for a place in the next round is Ewers, who is well aware that improvements are needed should they wish to succeed.

Points left on the table

“Today’s a good result, but we can’t help think we have left a few points out there,” said the flanker.

“Right now, it’s half time, but now it’s a massive game next week.

“We’ve got a slim lead to take over there, but we just have to approach it like any other game. We need to go there and just aim to win.”

After a gruelling first leg which was incredibly physical, Ewers and the Chiefs are anticipating a repeat of the same but in front of a packed out Thomond Park.

“It was tough out there, but that’s what you expect,” commented Ewers.

“Fair play to them, breakdown wise they came after it hard and if we weren’t on point, they punished us.

“It’s going to be the same next week, an even bigger challenge, but it’s one that we’re all looking forward to.”

The Chiefs forward was quick to dismiss any sort of notion that they had any sort of advantage with a slim five-point lead.

“It’s all to play for,” he said.

“It’s going to be a huge game, a big occasion, and the atmosphere is going to be something special.

“For us, though, it’s our chance to go and prove ourselves and hopefully deliver what will be a big performance.”

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