EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final review: Final four confirmed

EPCR Media
Apr 13
2 min read

Ulster Rugby, Montpellier Hérault Rugby, Dragons RFC and Exeter Chiefs are through to the EPCR Challenge Cup semi-finals after a high-intensity weekend of knockout action and a series of tightly contested clashes. With clubs from URC, PREM Rugby and TOP 14 all progressing, the competition now moves one step closer to the EPCR Challenge Cup Final in Bilbao on 22 May, with tickets still available for fans who want to be part of the biggest weekend in international club rugby.

CLICK BELOW FOR QUARTER-FINAL REVIEW STATS

Ulster Rugby became the first side through to the EPCR Challenge Cup final four, powering past Stade Rochelais 41-24 with six tries to secure a home semi-final – giving them their first shot at a European final since 2012. They’ll face Exeter Chiefs, who edged Benetton Rugby in a dramatic 44-41 finish, sealed by a late Henry Slade penalty.

Two-time champions Montpellier Hérault Rugby continued their unbeaten run in the competition, dispatching Connacht Rugby 45-22. A dominant first half - boosted by Connacht ill-discipline - set the tone, with seven tries sealing the win.

They will host Dragons RFC, who reached their first EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final in a decade after a hard-fought victory over Zebre Parma, pulling away in the second half of a tight 32-35 contest.

Quarter-finals – Top Performers

Points: 26, Jacob Umaga, Benetton Rugby
Carries: 17, Giacomo da Re, Zebre Parma, Niccolo Cannone, Benetton Rugby
Metres: 132, Jacob Stockdale, Ulster Rugby
Defenders beaten: 9, Thomas Gallo, Benetton Rugby
Line-outs won: 9, Florian Verhaeghe, Montpellier Hérault Rugby
Tackles: 23, Ross Vintcent, Exeter Chiefs

Quarter-finals – Key Stats

Jacob Umaga (Benetton Rugby) scored 26 points and two tries at the weekend; he was perfect off the tee.
Jacob Stockdale (Ulster Rugby) made more metres than any other player in the Quarter-finals (132).
Ross Vincent (Exeter Chiefs) made the most tackles at the weekend (23). Teammate Dafydd Jenkins also made 19.
Alex Becognee (Montpellier Hèrault Rugby) won three turnovers in the Quarter-finals - more than any other player.
Jacopo Trulla (Zebre Parma) made six clean breaks at the weekend - more than any other player.

EPCR Challenge Cup Semi-Final Fixtures

(Pool stage rankings in brackets - all kick-offs local times)

Saturday 2 May

SF 2: Ulster Rugby (3) v Exeter Chiefs (7), Affidea Stadium (5.30pm)

Premier Sports/beIN SPORTS/SuperSport/FloRugby/EPCR TV

Sunday 3 May

SF 1: Montpellier Hérault Rugby (1) v Dragons RFC (13), Septeo Stadium (1.30pm)

France TV/beIN SPORTS/Premier Sports/S4C/SuperSport/FloRugby/EPCR TV