Atkins: It’s Exeter’s chance to shine
OLLIE Atkins believes he and his Exeter Chiefs teammates have been given the perfect stage on which to shine.
The Australian lock helped lead from the front as the Chiefs secured a third successive final appearance thanks to Sunday's 24-7 home win over Harlequins.
Leicester, meanwhile, were equally impressive in their own last four encounter, defeating defending champions Saracens 32-10 at Allianz Park.
Atkins, 28, said: “We've been planning this for a while and the boys have been putting in some phenomenal performances in the Anglo-Welsh Cup. Now, this is their chance to shine on the big stage.
“We know what is coming at us, but we're looking forward to the challenge, up front especially. It's where they pride themselves, so we'll have a crack there.”
With the Chiefs having tasted defeated only twice in all competitions since the end of October, both times to French opposition in the European Champions Cup, confidence within the camp is high heading into the first showpiece final of the season.
Atkins added: “Across the whole squad we have some fantastic players and that's helping to breed competition among us all. Each week whichever team is picked, the boys are going out there and delivering big performances and it's driving us forward as a squad.
“You only have to look at the way some of the younger guys have really stepped up to appreciate how strong the squad is.”
And more of the same will be expected on Sunday as the Chiefs look to replicate their success of 2014, when they lifted the Anglo- Welsh prize for the first time against Northampton.
“It would be fantastic to do that again,” said Atkins, who recently penned a new two-year deal. “The Anglo- Welsh Cup wasn't there last season, but it's something a lot of players have really looked forward to this time.
“It's great obviously for the young players but for others – myself included – it's a great competition to show the coaches what we can do as well.
“We can't wait and hopefully come the end on Sunday we'll be the team lifting the cup.”
