Questions for the Chiefs

[abovetheundercroft]

Where do Exeter go from here? The management and team probably have mixed feelings about the performances so far. Given 3 wins from seven at the start I would have taken that with both hands, but I have a feeling Rob wanted more. Narrow losses to the big boys has been a hallmark and there was real disappointment with the Leicester and London Irish matches in particular.

Should Exeter now be setting sights a little higher than survival? A realistic target is probably about 7th, it is still a big ask but an aspiration.

The No 10. shirt? There are now three high class players vying for the jersey. Steenson is a sure boot but Davis has shown he can marshall the backs and has a bit of sparkle, while Mieres is a good quality signing who wont want to be on the benches.

Could Phil Vickery be coaxed down to his home region to begin a coaching career at some point? In a side that is in need of experienced heads you dont get much better.

 

[Teh Mite]

Exe could well make it into the HEC with some luck this season, had they had a tiny bit more luck and experience, they could well have included Saints, Tigers and Irishs' scalps on their clubhouse mantle already. I'd guess they're 50% there now at safety assured safety (Leeds & Newcastle at this rate will both struggle to beat the 20 point mark), so it can't hurt them to aim high.

The real trick will be the 2nd season survival.