Rugby legend backs Exeter
Rugby legend Richard Hill is backing the Exeter Chiefs to perform above expectations and survive comfortably in the Premiership this season.
The former England and Saracens flanker says that he is very positive that there is another club in the South West that can represent the area along with Bath. He's also said there are a number of players that could cause some surprises this season.
Exeter beat Bristol in the Championship play-off final last season to win promotion to the Premiership. Since then the club has made a number of quality additions to the playing squad that should give them a better chance of competing.
There are many reasons why Exeter could do very well this season and perform better than a lot of people expect. However, they do not have the experience of other Premiership sides and this could tell over a high volume of games.
Exeter should do well
Exeter should do well this season because there is a general vibe of excitement and energy around the club. This can often cause the entire squad to start playing above themselves, and could lead the club to get a good start.
The club have brought in 12 new players over the course of the summer. This adds a real injection of quality into the playing side and will allow them to start competing with some of the best teams in England. The likes of Ryan Davis from Bath and Jon Vickers from Northampton will really help the side.
Exeter will receive a great deal of funding from the Premiership after being promoted. The club can put this cash back into various areas to ensure that they stay at a Premiership standard.
Hill said: "It's absolutely brilliant, as in order to spread the gospel of rugby, it's important to be able to show the masses the game. I really hope that they have a good season, are highly competitive and avoid anything unpleasant. It's great to have a team deep down in the South West who are playing at the highest level."
On the contrary
There are a few people saying that Exeter will not stand a chance of staying up because they do not have the same levels of experience that other Premiership sides possess. These are the same sides that Exeter will apparently be competing with to avoid the drop.
However, a few of the players they have brought in arrive from other Premiership sides. The club are going into the new season with some Premiership experience. It is a new adventure for the club but not for a lot of the players.
Hill added: "I have a relationship with the Exeter Chiefs, I was down before Christmas with Tony Rowe and it was good to catch up with them. I'm very pleased for them - it's great to see new blood."
Betting advice
Despite the positive vibes coming from the club, it is difficult to see them pulling away from the bottom of the table with ease. The best option is to watch how they play over the first two or three games of the season.
This will allow you to judge how they play in those games. If you see positive signs then it will still be early enough in the season for you to get good odds on the side staying up and avoiding trouble later on in the Premiership year.
Pick out one or two attacking players in the team who you think will score a lot of points. These players will want to make an impression on the league so take advantage of their enthusiasm.
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