Claudia Moloney-MacDonald delivered a stunning four-try performance to propel Exeter Chiefs to a commanding 50-24 victory over Sale Sharks, securing their semi-final clash against Saracens on June 14. The England back, fresh from the Red Roses' Grand Slam triumph in the Six Nations, showcased her best form at a crucial juncture of the season.
Match Overview
Exeter, who had already secured a playoff berth, confirmed their opponents with this win. They will travel to Stone X Stadium to face an in-form Saracens side, which finished their regular season with a dominant victory over Trailfinders. The other semi-final will see three-time defending champions Gloucester-Hartpury take on Trailfinders.
Moloney-MacDonald's Brilliance
Moloney-MacDonald, who scored two tries against Bristol the previous week, was instrumental in open play. Among her scoring spree was a sensational effort where she chased down a kick through and touched down just before the ball rolled out of play. Her try-scoring exploits turned the tide in a fiercely contested match, with Exeter leading 24-12 at halftime.
Sale's Bright Start and Future Plans
Sale started strongly at a windy and overcast Sandy Park, with Holly Aitchison expertly marshaling her side and hooker Amy Cokayne executing a 50:22 kick. However, Exeter's second-half dominance saw them pull away, with scrum-half Flo Robinson becoming the fourth women's player to reach 100 appearances for the club.
Sale, aiming for playoff contention next season, are building a formidable squad. They already boast England's Amy Cokayne, Scotland's Rhona Lloyd, and Ireland's Brittany Hogan, and have announced the arrivals of Red Roses Zoe Stratford, Tatyana Heard, and Sarah Beckett from Gloucester. They may also add World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne, who is a free agent after leaving Harlequins.
Playoff Picture
The business end of the season now begins, with several questions looming: Can Gloucester's league dominance continue? Will Exeter or Trailfinders cause an upset? If Moloney-MacDonald's form continues to peak, surprises may be in store in England's top flight.
