Baxter Backs Feyi-Waboso for Premiership Top Try Scorer Crown
Exeter Chiefs boss Rob Baxter has thrown his full weight behind exciting winger Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, boldly predicting the young talent has the potential to become the Gallagher Premiership's leading try scorer this season. The England international has taken Super League by storm since his move to Sandy Park, and Baxter believes his blistering pace and try-scoring instincts make him a genuine contender for the coveted individual accolade.
Feyi-Waboso's impact at Exeter has been nothing short of electric. His arrival has injected a potent dose of attacking flair into the Chiefs' backline, and his performances have quickly established him as one of the most exciting prospects in English rugby. While the Premiership boasts a wealth of attacking talent, Baxter's assertion is a significant endorsement, signalling his belief that Feyi-Waboso can not only compete but dominate in the try-scoring charts.
A Revelation in Red Rose and Chiefs Colours
The 21-year-old winger has been a revelation since joining Exeter from Wasps. His raw pace, agility, and an uncanny ability to find the try line have consistently troubled opposition defences. It’s not just about raw talent, though. Feyi-Waboso’s work rate off the ball and his defensive commitment have also drawn praise, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years.
His inclusion in Steve Borthwick’s England squad for the Six Nations further underscored his burgeoning reputation. While his international minutes have been limited so far, the call-up itself speaks volumes about the high regard in which he is held by the national coaching staff. And now, his club coach is making an even bolder statement.
"I think he absolutely can be," Baxter stated emphatically when asked about Feyi-Waboso's try-scoring potential. "If he stays fit, and he continues to play the way he's been playing, I think he's got every chance. You look at the attributes he possesses – his speed, his power, his ability to finish – they are all the hallmarks of a top-class try scorer."
Baxter’s confidence is not unfounded. Feyi-Waboso has already showcased his predatory instincts on numerous occasions this season. His ability to break tackles, find space in tight defences, and accelerate away from would-be tacklers makes him a constant threat. He’s the kind of player who can change a game in an instant, and that’s precisely what top try scorers do.
The Competition and the Edge
The Gallagher Premiership is renowned for its attacking prowess, with a host of talented wingers and centres consistently vying for the top try-scoring honours. Players like Tommy Freeman at Northampton Saints, Cadan Murley at Harlequins, and other prolific finishers across the league will undoubtedly provide stiff competition. However, Baxter believes Feyi-Waboso possesses a unique edge.
"He's got a real hunger to score tries," Baxter continued. "It's not just about him being in the right place at the right time; he actively seeks out opportunities to get over the whitewash. He’s got that little bit of flair, that unpredictability, that can make him incredibly difficult to defend against."
This 'hunger' and 'unpredictability' are crucial differentiators in a league where defences are increasingly sophisticated. While many wingers are fast, Feyi-Waboso’s blend of speed, footwork, and sheer determination to break the line sets him apart. He’s not afraid to take on defenders, and more often than not, he comes out on top.
Building Momentum and the Chiefs' Ambitions
The Chiefs, under Baxter’s leadership, have always been a team built on strong foundations and a ruthless attacking edge. Feyi-Waboso’s emergence perfectly complements their existing strengths and adds another layer of attacking potency. As Exeter push for a strong finish to the season and potentially another title challenge, having a player capable of consistently finding the try line is invaluable.
His try-scoring exploits will undoubtedly be a key factor in the Chiefs’ success. Each try he scores not only adds points to the board but also builds momentum and confidence within the squad. The psychological impact of having a player who consistently delivers tries cannot be overstated.
"We've seen flashes of brilliance from him already," Baxter acknowledged. "The challenge for him now is to maintain that consistency throughout the remainder of the season. If he can do that, then I have no doubt he'll be right up there in the try-scoring charts. He’s got all the tools, and he’s showing the right attitude."
The Road Ahead: Fitness and Form
The ultimate determinant of whether Feyi-Waboso can achieve this lofty goal will, of course, be his ability to stay on the pitch. The demanding nature of the Premiership, coupled with the international calendar, means injuries are an ever-present threat for any player. However, Feyi-Waboso's physicality and work rate suggest he is well-equipped to handle the physical demands.
Furthermore, his integration into the Chiefs' attacking system is becoming increasingly seamless. He understands the team’s structures, he’s building strong partnerships with his teammates, and he’s learning from the experienced players around him. This synergy will only enhance his try-scoring opportunities.
The prospect of Immanuel Feyi-Waboso topping the Premiership try-scoring charts is an exciting one for rugby fans. It speaks to the emergence of a new generation of exciting English talent and highlights the continuous evolution of attacking rugby in the domestic game. If Baxter’s bold prediction rings true, we are witnessing the rise of a truly world-class finisher who is set to leave an indelible mark on this season's Gallagher Premiership.
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