Band of Brothers needed this weekend
Apr
Exeter Chiefs head coach Rob Baxter is hoping the club's away supporters, who he describes as a "Band of Brothers", will turn out in their droves for this weekend's vital Championship play-off fixture against London Welsh.
Saturday's match, which is being played at Esher RFC's ground, The Rugby Ground, on Saturday (KO 3pm), is an important game for both sides. Chiefs are able to guarantee a semi-final place with a win but London Welsh will be eager to capitalise on an away win at Nottingham last weekend to put them in contention.
Baxter said today: "We cannot say enough about our away support. They are more vocal than the opposition fans. They act like a band of brothers out there. It's fantastic to be so well supported.
"The atmosphere at home last weekend was electric. As a coach, I have not felt that here yet. It would be fantastic if we could still feel that crackle of anticipation this week and against Nottingham on May 1 too."
Baxter added: "But the league and play-off programme has shown everybody that you cannot plan the next two or three games. We know this game is very important because it guarantees us a semi-final spot, and then we will start thinking about how we guarantee a top of the pool spot. But it's so tight and so tough, that we cannot afford to lose focus."
Two supporters' coaches have been booked for the trip on Saturday and tickets can be purchased by calling the ticket office on 01392 890890 before 4pm tomorrow. Tickets are £20 and the bus will leave Apple Lane at 9.30am.
London Welsh v Exeter Chiefs
Saturday, April 17, 2010 - KO 3pm
The Rugby Ground, home of Esher RFC
Forwards:
Richie Baxter, Chris Budgen, Neil Clark, David Gannon, James Hanks, Tom Hayes, Tom Johnson, Andy Miller, Ben Moon, Ruaídhri Murphy, Saul Nelson, James Scaysbrook, Chad Slade, Brett Sturgess & Hoani Tui
Backs:
Richard Bolt, Phil Dollman, Mark Foster, Danny Gray, Matt Jess, Steve Jones, Josh Matavesi, Paul McKenzie, Bryan Rennie, Nic Sestaret, Clive Stuart-Smith & Haydn Thomas
