Exeter Chiefs Hire Haydn Thomas as Defence Coach

Exeter Chiefs have announced the departure of defence coach Omar Mouneimne by mutual consent, following the club's worst-ever start to a Premiership season with six consecutive losses. Director of rugby Rob Baxter cited the need for a new defensive direction after a disjointed performance in the recent 36-19 defeat to Harlequins, which proved to be the tipping point. Mouneimne, who joined the Chiefs in 2022, was responsible for implementing an aggressive defensive strategy but faced criticism due to the team's poor results. Former scrum-half Haydn Thomas will take over as defence coach, having previously impressed with the University of Exeter and England U20s. Thomas is also set to join the England A coaching staff for their upcoming match against Australia A. The Chiefs currently sit ninth in the Premiership table, having conceded the fourth-most points this season.