Exeter’s dramatic turnaround follows a brutal 79‑17 loss to Newcastle that exposed cracks in a squad that once dominated the Premiership. Coach Steve Baxter admits the defeat forced a hard look at training standards and performance levels, sparking a fresh start that has already lifted the club to the brink of the playoffs.

After the loss, Baxter’s long‑time right‑hand man Hepher and forwards specialist Hunter were suspended and never returned, while veteran backs coach Dave Walder joined the staff. Ross McMillan took charge of the forwards and long‑serving skills coach Ricky Pellow departed. The overhaul aimed to rebuild a squad that had struggled to win against full‑strength opponents.

New signings such as Australia internationals Len Ikitau and Tom Hooper bolstered the front row and scrum‑half positions, giving Exeter a sharper edge. The revamped side, dubbed ‘Exeter 2.0’, now sits fourth in the Premiership, has reached the European Challenge Cup semi‑finals, and narrowly missed top‑flight glory against league leaders Northampton last week.

With the club hovering just outside the playoff zone, Baxter insists consistency in the final quarter of the season remains a priority. The 79‑17 setback has become a learning point, and the current form suggests Exeter can reclaim its former stature. The team’s resurgence now stands as the most significant chapter in recent club history.