Yeandle’s last-gasp try helps Exeter through in thrilling Montpellier draw

Exeter reached the Heineken Champions Cup quarter-finals on try count after extra-time after a dramatic draw with Montpellier at Sandy Park.

The hooker Jack Yeandle’s touchdown in the final seconds of 20 minutes’ added time put Exeter within striking distance, then Joe Simmonds’ nerveless conversion meant Exeter progressed 5-4 on tries.

Montpellier, the French champions Montpellier, dug deep despite having their England international No 8 Zach Mercer sent off following a high challenge 10 minutes after half-time, and almost turned a pulsating clash their way.

The fly-half Paolo Garbisi levelled the game at 26-26 through a long-range penalty with the final kick of normal time, then the Montpellier replacement Louis Carbonel touched down midway through the second period in extra-time, and Garbisi converted, but Yeandle and Simmonds had the final say.

Exeter looked well set after tries from Scott Sio, Sam Simmonds, who will join Montpellier next season, Tom Wyatt and Josh Iosefa-Scott left the visitors reeling, while Joe Simmonds kicked four conversions.

Exeter impressively wiped out an early 12-point deficit given to them through tries by the replacement hooker Curtis Langdon and the wing Vincent Rattez, while Garbisi ended with three penalties and two conversions, with the lock Lenni Nouchi also touching down.

It was an outstanding effort by Exeter, especially given their early difficulties in counteracting Montpellier’s physical approach.

The Chiefs will make a fourth Champions Cup quarter-final appearance – they host South African challengers the Stormers next weekend – as they continue to put erratic domestic form to one side in pursuit of a second European title.

Wyatt was among seven Exeter changes following last