Exeter Chiefs Eye Redemption As Sale Sharks Visit Sandy Park

By Dorren Kipchumba

With just one round remaining in the regular season, the ninth-placed Chiefs are pushing to finish the campaign on a positive note.

Exeter Chiefs will host Sale Sharks on May 31, 2025, in a high-stakes Gallagher Premiership showdown at Sandy Park. They currently have 27 points from 17 matches, while Sale Sharks arrive in Devon in 3rd place, boasting 54 points from the same number of games.

Although Exeter suffered a narrow 24-22 defeat away to Harlequins last weekend, the performance marked a step forward. The Chiefs scored three tries and led deep into the second half before a late rally from the hosts, highlighted by Marcus Smith’s try and penalty, snatched victory away.

Speaking at a press conference, Exeter's Director of Rugby, Rob Baxter, emphasized that the disappointment in defeat signals a shift in mentality. “We earned the right to be disappointed that we didn’t get the result,” he said. “That tells me this group is starting to believe again.”

The club is also undergoing coaching changes, with long-serving assistants Rob Hunter and Ali Hepher stepping aside. Former England fly-half Dave Walder has joined as attack coach, officially beginning his duties this week. Baxter noted that Walder’s energy and fresh perspective will be a boost for the squad ahead of their final home match.

Historically, Exeter has enjoyed success against Sale at home, but the visitors, still chasing a top-two finish, pose a formidable threat. The match will test the Chiefs’ progress and resilience as they attempt to salvage pride and build momentum for the future.

Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, at Sandy Park, with live coverage on TNT Sports. A strong showing against a title contender could mark a turning point in Exeter’s ongoing rebuild.