Susie Appleby, Exeter’s head coach, has praised her team’s resilience as they beat Bristol 29-26 to win the half-time match. This secured a semi-final of the Premier 15s home tournament.
This win secured a second-place finish in the Chiefs’ second season of top flight rugby women’s rugby.
They will play Bristol at Sandy Park in Sunday’s tie for the play-off.
Appleby stated that “the thing about our squad was they never let their heads sink,” BBC Radio Devon.
“There is no screaming and bawling. We knew that we needed to improve, so we returned out into the second half and did that.
“There are many things to do and an exciting semi final to look forward too.”
If Exeter advances to the final, they will be facing either Harlequins reigning champions or Saracens table-toppers Saracens.
Exeter beat Saracens last week by a record 54-12 and has twice beaten Quins in this league.
Appleby stated, “It’s huge to the club and all those who’ve been involved in the club over the past two years.”
“I’m very, extremely pleased. We were a bit disappointed by the performance. It was an odd game. But we will accept the result. The fact that we get to play at our home next Sunday is huge.