Cardiff Rugby coach Corniel van Zyl admits Sunday’s EPCR Challenge Cup defeat to ruthless Exeter Chiefs was tough to take.

The Blue & Blacks found themselves under pressure early on, with Exeter controlling large periods in a dominant  first half perormance that delivered three tries.

Improvements were made in the second half but Cardiff could not turn their pressure into points as the hosts eased to victory with two more tries of their own.

The defeat at Sandy Park denied Cardiff of a home draw in the Round of 16 and they now face a trip to Benetton Rugby on Easter Weekend following a group stage campaign that included impressive victories over Ulster and Racing 92.

“It’s obviously a tough one to take, but Exeter put us under a lot of pressure in that first half and made it difficult for us to get any real rhythm,” said van Zyl. “When we did get a few chances to play in the right areas, we just didn’t quite execute as well as we would have liked.”

“The positive for us was definitely the response after the break,” he added. “We spoke about a few things at half-time and that really showed, especially in the first 20 minutes. We had more field position and spent more time in the right areas, which was pleasing.”

Van Zyl acknowledged that discipline was an area the side will continue to work on, but felt his team managed the contest better in the second period.

“There were a few penalties around high tackles and the breakdown that allowed Exeter to build pressure,” he said. “We know how strong they are when they get into the 22, but even though the penalty count didn’t change dramatically, we were at least able to shift the game into better areas of the pitch in the second half.”

In terms of injuries, Rory Jennings left the field following an HIA, with no major concerns elsewhere in the squad.

Looking ahead, van Zyl highlighted the importance of continuing to build and improve, with a crucial game against Benetton Rugby taking place at the Arms Park on Saturday 24th January (19:45 KO).

“We’re focused on growing as a team and finding ways to get better,” he added. “It’s about learning from these experiences but also projecting our energy forward. Getting that balance right is really important for us.”

“With the next round a few weeks down the line, right now our attention goes straight to next week and what’s in front of us. We want to impress in front of our home fans”.

Secure your tickets for this weekend’s fixture as Cardiff Rugby face Benetton Rugby on Saturday, January 24 (19:45 KO). Get your tickets below.