The 2025/26 PREM Rugby season has been a thrilling ride, and the semi-final matches were no exception. As the dust settles, it's time to reflect on the standout performances that left a lasting impression. While the final result may have been predicted, the journey to Twickenham was filled with twists and turns, and the players who stepped up deserve recognition. Let's dive into the key moments and the players who made a case for themselves in the Premier Rugby Team of the Week.
The Saints' Dominance
Northampton Saints emerged as the clear winners of the weekend, and their victory over Leicester Tigers was a testament to their collective effort. The team's success can be attributed to several key players who stepped up when it mattered most.
George Furbank: The Playmaker Extraordinaire
George Furbank's performance was nothing short of exceptional. His ability to add a 'lick of flair' to the Saints' attack was on full display, and he made 69 meters in the process. Furbank's playmaking skills and carrying threat were instrumental in securing two tries, and his performance was a fitting send-off for his time at Franklin's Gardens. In my opinion, Furbank's impact was so significant that it could have been the deciding factor in the Saints' victory.
Tommy Freeman: The Workhorse
Tommy Freeman's performance was a testament to his work ethic. He was 'busy' throughout the game, looking for ways to inject himself into the action and get the Saints on the front foot. Freeman's stats sheet was impressive, with 11 carries for 42 meters, four defenders beaten, and a try to his name. His performance was a reminder of the importance of consistency and hard work in rugby.
Tom Litchfield: The Unsung Hero
Tom Litchfield's hat-trick may have stolen the headlines, but his performance was a result of consistent improvement throughout the season. Litchfield's ability to get better and better as the weeks went on was on full display against Leicester. His 11 carries for 49 meters, two line breaks, and four defenders beaten were a testament to his all-around game. In my opinion, Litchfield's performance was a key factor in the Saints' victory, and he deservedly earned the 13 shirt.
The Chiefs' Comeback
Exeter Chiefs' comeback against Bath was a sight to behold, and their victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. The team's success can be attributed to several key players who stepped up when it mattered most.
Paul Brown-Bampoe: The Winging Wonder
Paul Brown-Bampoe's performance was a highlight of the Chiefs' comeback. His ability to consistently get his hands on the ball and make positive things happen for his side was on full display. Brown-Bampoe's 11 carries for 42 meters and his presence in the tighter channels and in space were instrumental in driving the Chiefs over the gainline. In my opinion, Brown-Bampoe's performance was a key factor in the Chiefs' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Harvey Skinner: The Calm and Composed Fly-Half
Harvey Skinner's performance was a reminder of the importance of composure and calm under pressure. His ability to lead the Chiefs' attack with a 'calm, composed head' was instrumental in their comeback against Bath. Skinner's kicking accuracy and his ability to fuel the Chiefs' confidence during the second half were a testament to his leadership skills. In my opinion, Skinner's performance was a key factor in the Chiefs' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Archie McParland: The England Hopeful
Archie McParland's performance was a testament to his recent rise and his potential as an England hopeful. His ability to add 'fizz' to the Saints' attack was controlled, well-thought out, and done at the right time. McParland's game understanding and maturity were on full display, and his performance was a key factor in the Saints' victory. In my opinion, McParland's performance was a reminder of the importance of game intelligence and maturity in rugby.
The Forwards' Impact
The forwards played a crucial role in the semi-final matches, and several players stood out for their performances.
Greg Fisilau: The Powerhouse
Greg Fisilau's performance was a reminder of the importance of power and determination in the forwards. His ability to drive Exeter's second-half fightback was instrumental in their victory. Fisilau's 28 tackles and 15 carries for 47 meters were a testament to his work ethic and his ability to return from an eye socket injury. In my opinion, Fisilau's performance was a key factor in the Chiefs' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Henry Pollock: The World-Class Performer
Henry Pollock's performance was a highlight of the weekend, and it proved his world-class status. His ability to 'cart around Franklin's Gardens for fun' against Leicester was a testament to his skill and determination. Pollock's 24 carries, 122 meters, eight defenders beaten, 12 tackles, and a turnover were a reminder of his all-around game. In my opinion, Pollock's performance was a key factor in the Saints' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Tom Hooper: The Wallabies Man
Tom Hooper's performance was a reminder of the importance of consistency and determination in the forwards. His ability to grow into the game as it went on, particularly in defense, was instrumental in Exeter's victory. Hooper's 26 tackles and his ability to get the better of the Bath back-row were a testament to his leadership skills. In my opinion, Hooper's performance was a key factor in the Chiefs' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
The Unsung Heroes
While the stars of the show may have been the ones who stepped up and made a difference, there were also several unsung heroes who played a crucial role in their teams' victories.
George Martin: The Bruising Effort
George Martin's performance was a reminder of the importance of determination and hard work in the forwards. His ability to throw his body into every collision and win every single one of them was a testament to his work ethic. Martin's 14 tackles and 13 carries were a key factor in the Tigers' performance, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Thomas du Toit: The Fitting Send-Off
Thomas du Toit's performance was a fitting send-off for his time in Bath. His ability to scrummage well, get stuck in around the park, and burrow over for a try was a testament to his all-around game. Du Toit's performance was a reminder of the importance of consistency and determination in the forwards, and he will be missed in Bath next season.
Curtis Langdon: The Basics Done Right
Curtis Langdon's performance was a reminder of the importance of consistency and attention to detail. His ability to nail all the basics in the tight and go well at the lineout was instrumental in the Saints' victory. Langdon's performance was a key factor in neutralizing Leicester's pack, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
Ethan Burger: The Match-Winning Try
Ethan Burger's performance was a highlight of the weekend, and his match-winning try was a testament to his skill and determination. His ability to win scrum penalties for fun against Du Toit and get himself busy in the loose was instrumental in the Chiefs' victory. Burger's performance was a key factor in the Chiefs' victory, and he deservedly earned a place in the Team of the Week.
The Takeaway
The semi-final matches of the 2025/26 PREM Rugby season were filled with twists and turns, and the players who stepped up and made a difference deserve recognition. The Saints' dominance and the Chiefs' comeback were a testament to the resilience and determination of the players involved. As we look ahead to the final, it will be interesting to see if the Chiefs can maintain their momentum and secure a place in the history books. In my opinion, the PREM Rugby season has been a thrilling ride, and the final will be a fitting conclusion to a memorable campaign.
