Ollie Sleightholme Hat-Trick Propels Northampton to Thrilling Victory Over Exeter

In a scintillating display of rugby, Ollie Sleightholme’s remarkable hat-trick fueled Northampton’s stunning comeback, securing a 42-36 victory over Exeter at Sandy Park. The win propelled Northampton back to the top of the Gallagher Premiership, ending Exeter’s 23-match unbeaten run at home.

Despite falling 26 points behind in the first half, Northampton orchestrated a spectacular recovery, making it seven games unbeaten. Sleightholme’s three tries, along with Rory Hutchinson’s late touchdown, defined a thrilling encounter that saw Northampton claim a bonus-point triumph.

Exeter started explosively, with flanker Jacques Vermeulen scoring two tries and additional scores from scrum-half Stu Townsend, wing Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, and replacement Rusi Tuima. Uncapped Feyi-Waboso impressed, catching the attention of England head coach Steve Borthwick and Wales boss Warren Gatland.

Northampton fought back with tries from skipper George Furbank, scrum-half Callum Braley, and Sleightholme, showcasing resilience and determination. Fin Smith’s accurate kicking, contributing six conversions, sealed the remarkable comeback.

Exeter’s early dominance was evident as they opened the scoring within six minutes, with Vermeulen crossing the try line. Feyi-Waboso extended the lead, and Townsend’s try put Exeter in control with a 19-0 lead. Vermeulen’s second try secured a bonus point for Exeter, leaving Northampton trailing by 26 points.

However, Northampton capitalized on Exeter’s yellow card, scoring two tries in quick succession through Braley and Furbank. Sleightholme added to the comeback with his first try, closing the gap to 26-14 at halftime.

Northampton continued their resurgence in the second half, capitalizing on Slade’s yellow card. Furbank’s try and Sleightholme’s second, combined with Smith’s conversions, saw Northampton take the lead. Exeter responded with a Slade penalty, but Sleightholme completed his hat-trick, giving Northampton the edge.

Tuima’s late try, converted by Slade, appeared to secure victory for Exeter, but Northampton had the last say. In a dramatic finish, Hutchinson scored the decisive try, sealing a remarkable triumph for Northampton and solidifying their place at the top of the Premiership table.