Bath
IT'S HARD TO WIN A TROPHY, HARDER STILL TO RETAIN IT
Richards: win all
By Devonport Lad
February 9 2026
Apologies for kicking off with something of a cliché, but this is a well-known mantra, oft repeated across a number of sports. Library shelves full of books have been written about this subject, but it boils down to the huge difficulty of maintaining the physical, mental and tactical edge required to win consecutive trophies. It's not easy!
When I started to think about this preview prior to last weekend, I thought I might be using that line as the basis for softening the disappointment of a pool stage exit from this year's PRC competition. But then "Will Butt's Barmy Army", as someone described them on social media, went and stuck 60 points on Sale on Sunday. They haven’t yet quite kicked the door to the semi-finals open, but they've at least unlocked it and there's a sliver of daylight shining through.
I should perhaps have known better. At the Members' Evening held at Trowbridge back on 2nd February, there was some discussion about this season's PRC campaign which, it has to be said, didn't go so well for Bath in the first block. When somebody asked the panel what we needed to do in the next block, without pausing for thought Ewan Richards answered, "win every game". This wasn’t a flippant response; it was founded in knowing the quality of the players that we can call on and that the coaches and other backroom staff will ensure that whatever team we put out is in the best shape to succeed, both tactically and psychologically.
Mark Lilley talked about the pressures of having a "target on your back". One of the consequences of winning the Treble last season is that teams in all competitions will raise their game against us. Sale is acknowledged to be a difficult away fixture at any time and when the teams were announced, several of us felt that at best the teams were evenly matched, with the scales probably tilted a bit in Sale's favour. And that makes the result all the more remarkable. Unfortunately, most of us will only get to see the YouTube highlights, but it looked like a highly competent display, using the power of the forwards to good effect with some fluent backs moves thrown in when the opportunity arose. That seems to be the "go to" strategy at this point of the season at all levels and it's highly effective.
But there will be no room for complacency as we head to what I believe is another sold-out Rec on Saturday. They say there are only two certainties in life - death and taxes - but most of us would agree that it's equally certain that Bristol will lift their game any time they play Bath and we need to go into this game with the same mindset that spurred us to three trophies last season. If we needed reminding of the volatility of Derby games, remember the match at Castle Grim a couple of weeks ago!
Whilst Bath are currently third in the Pool A table on 16 points with the advantage of having already had their fallow week, Bristol are fifth on 7. A semi - final spot is still within Bath's hands but it's now a stretch too far for Bristol. What they can do of course is to take Bath effectively out of the equation by securing a win on Saturday, leaving Exeter and Gloucester to qualify as the clear top two. They will know that for us this is a must-win game and they will surely be plotting accordingly!
So what can we expect? Although I don't think we'll quite match the 49 or so players that we used in the PRC last year, I'm proud of the way that we're sticking to the spirit of the competition and playing developing talent alongside a sprinkling of more mature heads. Stand fast any injuries, I would expect us to field a similar team to the one that went to Sale. Bristol took on Exeter last Saturday. They scored 5 tries with a team that included the likes of Rich Lane, Elizalde, Ibitoye, Worsley, Thacker and Grondona, but they also leaked 8. They will pose a much greater attacking threat than Sale and we will need to be defensively strong as well as using our most potent weapons in attack. One thing is certain; you don't want to be kicking loose balls to the likes of Messrs Lane and Ibitoye!
I think we'll win this one but it's likely to be edge of your seat stuff! I think we've got the psychological edge as well as strength in depth and will kick on from last weekend. Hopefully it's us doing the massacring on St Valentine's Day!
COYB
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StumbleuponIT'S HARD TO WIN A TROPHY, HARDER STILL TO RETAIN IT. TEAM UP!
Discussion started by Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged), 09/02/2026 20:48
09/02/2026 20:48
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Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:18:13:06:48 by CoochieCoo.
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Great preview, thanks DL. I am increasingly growing a soft spot for this competition, despite its many flaws
I agree Beats Working and am really looking forward, albeit with some trepidation, to Saturday, the first day for about six months with no rain forecast!
.
It is really interesting seeing these young talented players gradually making progress in a bigger environment. Sell out crowd at the Rec will for many of them be the biggest game they will have played.
Bristol will be really up for it as they have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
.
It is really interesting seeing these young talented players gradually making progress in a bigger environment. Sell out crowd at the Rec will for many of them be the biggest game they will have played.
Bristol will be really up for it as they have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Jack Harrison named in the Uni side after starting against Sale so think Chris Harris or Ojomoh maybe involved this weekend.
Hoping we stick with largely same side and not too many main first team players coming in yet but maybe towards the last few rounds. I've checked the competition rules and it states A Club may not be represented in the Semi-Final or Final Matches of the Competition by any person who has not played or been a replacement or substitute (i.e. included in the match squad) for that Club in the Competition pool stage Matches in the current season but with some exceptions. [rfu.widen.net]
Hoping we stick with largely same side and not too many main first team players coming in yet but maybe towards the last few rounds. I've checked the competition rules and it states A Club may not be represented in the Semi-Final or Final Matches of the Competition by any person who has not played or been a replacement or substitute (i.e. included in the match squad) for that Club in the Competition pool stage Matches in the current season but with some exceptions. [rfu.widen.net]
Quote:Me too. I've even decided to go to Exeter weekend after next!BeatsWorking
Great preview, thanks DL. I am increasingly growing a soft spot for this competition, despite its many flaws
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
I’m sure Max will be raring to make a point to the England selectors that he’s ready if needed. He should be in Scotland in my opinion…
Quote:Tlacey90
Jack Harrison named in the Uni side after starting against Sale so think Chris Harris or Ojomoh maybe involved this weekend.
Hoping we stick with largely same side and not too many main first team players coming in yet but maybe towards the last few rounds. I've checked the competition rules and it states A Club may not be represented in the Semi-Final or Final Matches of the Competition by any person who has not played or been a replacement or substitute (i.e. included in the match squad) for that Club in the Competition pool stage Matches in the current season but with some exceptions. [rfu.widen.net]
I'm sure we will for this one.
As for eligibility for the knockout stages:
Dunn, Tuipolotu, FvW, Sela, Roux, Molony, Richards, Reid, Barbeary, Hill, TCS, Redpath, TDG & Muir
have already appeared.
The only 'first team' player I can think of who hasn't already played but might be wanted is JoeC.
Oscar Thomas & Jack Woods aren't in Wales U20s squad nor is James Linegar for England U20s so all maybe available for Bath but believe Woods may have injury.
TEAM Bath Rugby:
1 Scott Kirk,
2 Dan Frost,
3 Kieran Verden,
4 Will Jeanes,
5 Ewan Richards,
6 Ethan Staddon,
7 Thompson Cowan,
8 Arthur Green,
9 Bernard van der Linde,
10 Will Roue,
11 Will Muir,
12 Will Butt,
13 Max Ojomoh,
14 Charlie Griffin,
15 Austin Emens
Replacements:
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu,
17 Ioan Emanuel,
18 Mikey Summerfield,
19 Jack Bennett,
20 George Timmins,
21 Ieuan Davies,
22 James Linegar,
23 Chris Harris
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:13:11:41:39 by BathMatt53.
1 Scott Kirk,
2 Dan Frost,
3 Kieran Verden,
4 Will Jeanes,
5 Ewan Richards,
6 Ethan Staddon,
7 Thompson Cowan,
8 Arthur Green,
9 Bernard van der Linde,
10 Will Roue,
11 Will Muir,
12 Will Butt,
13 Max Ojomoh,
14 Charlie Griffin,
15 Austin Emens
Replacements:
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu,
17 Ioan Emanuel,
18 Mikey Summerfield,
19 Jack Bennett,
20 George Timmins,
21 Ieuan Davies,
22 James Linegar,
23 Chris Harris
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:13:11:41:39 by BathMatt53.
Team Up:
Bath Rugby: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 10 Will Roue, 11 Will Muir, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Charlie Griffin, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Jack Bennett, 20 George Timmins, 21 Ieuan Davies, 22 James Linegar, 23 Chris Harris
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 10 Will Roue, 11 Will Muir, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Charlie Griffin, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Jack Bennett, 20 George Timmins, 21 Ieuan Davies, 22 James Linegar, 23 Chris Harris
PG
A nice blend of experience and youth in that squad, interesting that Davies gets the nod for the 21 shirt, wonder if the rumours about Le Roux heading off might have knocked him down the pecking order.
Bristol team
Quite a bit stronger than I was expecting given they're already out of the competition, should be a very competitive game.
Quite a bit stronger than I was expecting given they're already out of the competition, should be a very competitive game.
Good settled Bath side with Richards returning and Butt retaining captaincy. Ojomoh at 13. Quite a bit of experience in Bears side so will be interesting match. Good to see more time for likes of Staddon & Green along with van der Linde.
Bath Rugby: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 10 Will Roue, 11 Will Muir, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Charlie Griffin, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Jack Bennett, 20 George Timmins, 21 Ieuan Davies, 22 James Linegar, 23 Chris Harris
Bristol Bears: 15. Rich Lane (64 apps), 14. Max Pepper (7 apps), 13. Benjamin Elizalde (25 apps), 12. Joe Jenkins (31 apps), 11. Gabriel Ibitoye (64 apps), 10. Sam Worsley (33 apps), 9. Harry Randall (c) (154 apps); 1. Louie Trevett (8 apps), 2. Harry Thacker (151 apps), 3. Max Lahiff (120 apps), 4. James Dun (59 apps), 5. Steele Barker (9 apps), 6. Joe Owen (54 apps), 7. George Taylor (9 apps), 8. John Edwards (3 apps).
System players: 16. Tomas Gwilliam (12 apps), 17. Sam Grahamslaw (22 apps), 18. Sam Scott (1 app), 19. Ethan Surrey (6 apps), 20. Kieran Hill (debut), 21. Sam Wolstenholme (18 apps), 22. Charlie Powell (18 apps), 23. Ollie Harris (3 apps). Several of bench are Academy players in hooker Kieran Hill, with Tomas Gwilliam, Sam Scott, Ethan Surrey and Ollie Harris.
Bath Rugby: 1 Scott Kirk, 2 Dan Frost, 3 Kieran Verden, 4 Will Jeanes, 5 Ewan Richards, 6 Ethan Staddon, 7 Thompson Cowan, 8 Arthur Green, 9 Bernard van der Linde, 10 Will Roue, 11 Will Muir, 12 Will Butt, 13 Max Ojomoh, 14 Charlie Griffin, 15 Austin Emens
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Ioan Emanuel, 18 Mikey Summerfield, 19 Jack Bennett, 20 George Timmins, 21 Ieuan Davies, 22 James Linegar, 23 Chris Harris
Bristol Bears: 15. Rich Lane (64 apps), 14. Max Pepper (7 apps), 13. Benjamin Elizalde (25 apps), 12. Joe Jenkins (31 apps), 11. Gabriel Ibitoye (64 apps), 10. Sam Worsley (33 apps), 9. Harry Randall (c) (154 apps); 1. Louie Trevett (8 apps), 2. Harry Thacker (151 apps), 3. Max Lahiff (120 apps), 4. James Dun (59 apps), 5. Steele Barker (9 apps), 6. Joe Owen (54 apps), 7. George Taylor (9 apps), 8. John Edwards (3 apps).
System players: 16. Tomas Gwilliam (12 apps), 17. Sam Grahamslaw (22 apps), 18. Sam Scott (1 app), 19. Ethan Surrey (6 apps), 20. Kieran Hill (debut), 21. Sam Wolstenholme (18 apps), 22. Charlie Powell (18 apps), 23. Ollie Harris (3 apps). Several of bench are Academy players in hooker Kieran Hill, with Tomas Gwilliam, Sam Scott, Ethan Surrey and Ollie Harris.
Strong selection with three players with first team Prem experience in the backline, plus the return of Richards.
PG
PG
Our boys will need to be on point-that is a strong Bristol lineup.
COYB!
PG
COYB!
PG
Surprisingly good Bristol side. Wonder what the logic in that is?
Great to see Richards back and Mojo to help the young 10 out. Hopefully the fans' will bring the noise and that the boys deliver, just like they vs a strong Sale team a week ago.
Great to see Richards back and Mojo to help the young 10 out. Hopefully the fans' will bring the noise and that the boys deliver, just like they vs a strong Sale team a week ago.
Quote:Barfboy
Surprisingly good Bristol side. Wonder what the logic in that is?
Getting a few of them some minutes I think, the likes of Thacker haven't played much and Randall has only played about 350 mins in total this year. Lane has played even less than that.
Like Bath the Bristol side seems to be a mix of youth and experienced guys coming back into match fitness. Both have selected teams in the spirit of the comp. Should be a good match up.
COYB!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:13:12:12:26 by BathMatt53.
Quote:Barfboy
Surprisingly good Bristol side. Wonder what the logic in that is?
Great to see Richards back and Mojo to help the young 10 out. Hopefully the fans' will bring the noise and that the boys deliver, just like they vs a strong Sale team a week ago.
It's because Bristol see Bath matches as their biggest games. They wouldn't care too much if they lost every other match but always beat Bath.
A bit like Welsh fans and matches against England....
Quote:Barfboy
Surprisingly good Bristol side. Wonder what the logic in that is?
Great to see Richards back and Mojo to help the young 10 out. Hopefully the fans' will bring the noise and that the boys deliver, just like they vs a strong Sale team a week ago.
Logic: Bristol - Bath game.
Obviously I have no idea whatsoever about the whys and wherefores, but I would love to think we're thinking ahead to another semi-final at your place. It's a chance for some of our players to get a psychological boost and get over the disappointment of last year's semi. And I obviously know it's completely different teams, but it's what's sport is all about, no? Mind you, if we lose the game, it was nothing to do with that at all...
On a slightly more serious note, some of the strength in our team is players returning from injury - Ibitoye has had 2 or 3 games before this one, so he needs some game time. Randall has had a couple more games, but the England A game was the sharpest we've seen him, so I imagine he just needs more game time to sharpen up properly. Jenkins is fresh back from injury. Steele Barker has had a long time off, so he also needs games, probably the same for Dun too.. We've also got 2 hookers on the bench (Gwilliam and Hill) - Hill will be a debut if he comes on. And lastly Charlie Powell is back on loan with us, but was previously in our academy.
I think the "it's Bath/Bristol" argument holds a bit more weight if Briz fielded a similar team for their home Prem Cup fixture.
They didn't. Briz put out a second string, so did Bath and we battered them. And that was when they were still in with a shout!
They didn't. Briz put out a second string, so did Bath and we battered them. And that was when they were still in with a shout!
Quote:Barfboy
I think the "it's Bath/Bristol" argument holds a bit more weight if Briz fielded a similar team for their home Prem Cup fixture.
They didn't. Briz put out a second string, so did Bath and we battered them. And that was when they were still in with a shout!
Yeeeeeeeeeeah... but:
That last Prem Cup fixture was a mere 6 days after the "full-blooded" league fixture. Two local derbies in the space of 6 days is turd (not the fault of the clubs - that's all down to the fixture admins).
PLUS we were in the midst of an injury crisis then. Now however, we have more players at our disposal.
Quote:it was announced as sold out a week or two ago - not bad for the devalued cupOutsideBath
As it’s Bath/Bristol I’m surprised this game isn’t a sell out.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:13:15:55:48 by Which Tyler.
Quote:Which TylerQuote:it was announced as sold out a week or two ago - not bad for the devalued cupOutsideBath
As it’s Bath/Bristol I’m surprised this game isn’t a sell out.
Club may well have stated that but I know for a fact that it isn’t.
Quote:Very reasonably priced ticket from the time they went on (early bird) sale, I think Bath are determined to get as many ‘sell outs’ as possible and plenty of kids in for these matches.Which TylerQuote:it was announced as sold out a week or two ago - not bad for the devalued cupOutsideBath
As it’s Bath/Bristol I’m surprised this game isn’t a sell out.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:13:16:47:37 by dcsh.
It could've been a sellout until Bristol returned a pile of their allocation unsold.
Same thing happened in last year's Prem Semi.
Lots of (justified) complaining about the price of tickets from Bristol fans.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Same thing happened in last year's Prem Semi.
Lots of (justified) complaining about the price of tickets from Bristol fans.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Quote:jayeatman
It could've been a sellout until Bristol returned a pile of their allocation unsold.
Same thing happened in last year's Prem Semi.
Lots of (justified) complaining about the price of tickets from Bristol fans.
Genuine question - did Bristol get an allocation of tickets? If so, how does that work? I personally don't recall seeing anything from the Bristol side that referred to any kind of allocated away tickets...
Forecast seem dry so that should be one less ticket on resale. Let’s hope Mrs Lam enjoys her visit
Quote:I don’t remember seeing tickets for away matches being advertised by for sale via Bath. They certainly don’t show via the Bath ticket website.Bristol IanQuote:jayeatman
It could've been a sellout until Bristol returned a pile of their allocation unsold.
Same thing happened in last year's Prem Semi.
Lots of (justified) complaining about the price of tickets from Bristol fans.
Genuine question - did Bristol get an allocation of tickets? If so, how does that work? I personally don't recall seeing anything from the Bristol side that referred to any kind of allocated away tickets...
There seems to be a huge difference in the amount of first team experience between the two teams though several of the Bristol players are returning from injuries & have not played much recently. Whether that is in the spirit of the completion seems a bit of a stretch.
One presumes that as a semi, Bath had to put aside X% for away fans. I could be horribly wrong though, but then I’ve never had need to check the Bristol ticket site.
Bris look quite strong but our squad is similar to last week when we put 60 pts on sale, plus we have richards, mojo and harris in who are big upgrades on cuckson, harrison and the short term loanee.
May be proved horrible wrong but I am going for a convincing home win.
Rare good weather and a 6 day turnaround for an inexperienced squad are my concerns so certainly wouldn't be a huge shock if we get turned over.
Another win and we look v good for knock outs so becomes a question of whether we bring in some more senior guys for exeter and glos so we have the option to play them in the knock outs. may help prep for return to prem (think you have to be in a group stage matchday 23 to play in knockouts).
hope whatever happens the same core of young/ fringe players go all way through tournament.
May be proved horrible wrong but I am going for a convincing home win.
Rare good weather and a 6 day turnaround for an inexperienced squad are my concerns so certainly wouldn't be a huge shock if we get turned over.
Another win and we look v good for knock outs so becomes a question of whether we bring in some more senior guys for exeter and glos so we have the option to play them in the knock outs. may help prep for return to prem (think you have to be in a group stage matchday 23 to play in knockouts).
hope whatever happens the same core of young/ fringe players go all way through tournament.
Lovely day, albeit a bit chilly.
Really looking forward to the match and then a few beers in the Cub!!
Really looking forward to the match and then a few beers in the Cub!!
Quote:Bath Hammer
There seems to be a huge difference in the amount of first team experience between the two teams though several of the Bristol players are returning from injuries & have not played much recently. Whether that is in the spirit of the completion seems a bit of a stretch.
I think it’s fine. Bath have picked someone who’s been in England camp for the last week or two
Quote:Charlieboa1
Bris look quite strong but our squad is similar to last week when we put 60 pts on sale, plus we have richards, mojo and harris in who are big upgrades on cuckson, harrison and the short term loanee.
May be proved horrible wrong but I am going for a convincing home win.
Comparing the two 23s I reckon that is very optimistic. Briz by 15 ish looks a more realistic prediction
HT 14 v 17
Rugbynetwork clock 20 minutes slow
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:15:18:15 by Mike the Taxi.
Rugbynetwork clock 20 minutes slow
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:15:18:15 by Mike the Taxi.
Yes, 33-24 win fior the kids, with the bonus point.
Exeter firsts had a big win against Gloucester
Exeter firsts had a big win against Gloucester
Quote:Dorset Boy
Yes, 33-24 win fior the kids, with the bonus point.
Exeter firsts had a big win against Gloucester
That's mightily impressive and hugely encouraging
Agree, that was a strong and experienced Bristol team with a number of first choice players
Quote:gaz59Quote:Charlieboa1
Bris look quite strong but our squad is similar to last week when we put 60 pts on sale, plus we have richards, mojo and harris in who are big upgrades on cuckson, harrison and the short term loanee.
May be proved horrible wrong but I am going for a convincing home win.
Comparing the two 23s I reckon that is very optimistic. Briz by 15 ish looks a more realistic prediction
9 point win and piling pressure on at the end, glad they didn't let me down!
Think people underestimate how amazing last season was for improving our squad depth. Lots of players played in big games- prem, champions cup, knock out prem cup games. Set us up brilliantly- well done jvg and team for backing them.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:17:08:47 by Charlieboa1.
Lots of fun today. I thought we were excellent across the pitch. Kirk (what a shift), Richards and Staddon stood out for me. BVL excellent too and Roue looks very comfortable at this level. The 4th try was an utter joy and changed the game decisively. 3 from 3 against Bris this season and according to Pat Lam, they don't lose to us.
More comment on here from Bristol Ian than on the Bristol board about today's game.
They literally has 2 posts, one showing each team, and nothing at all on the game itself!
They literally has 2 posts, one showing each team, and nothing at all on the game itself!
Well a. It's the prem rugby cup and b. The six nations is on. I suspect the majority of people who cared about this game were at it.
Sounds like Timmins went well today. Any thoughts on if he’s close to proper first team minutes?
Kirk too really. Hes been pretty under the radar but starting to feel like he might at least be a first team option which would be great for depth
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:19:19:31 by theredseat.
Kirk too really. Hes been pretty under the radar but starting to feel like he might at least be a first team option which would be great for depth
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:19:19:31 by theredseat.
Timmins will need to wait his turn - he was the bench nackrower and got on due to Cowan’ s injury.
That said, when his turn comes he looks very close to ready.
PG
That said, when his turn comes he looks very close to ready.
PG
Quote:dcsh
Good to win the game that mattered today ;-)
IMHO we won both the games that mattered!
🏴Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:02:14:19:42:07 by Susanne.
They have played better and were guilty of quite a few unforced errors but great character to keep Bristol in sight when the Bears were gaining momentum. How lucky we were to be bathed in sunshine for a while and to witness a splendid performance against a pretty strong Bears side. Best of all the try of the season finished by Charlie Griffin appreciated by 99.9% of the crowd. Hats off to Kirk and Verden for gritty 75 minute shifts but the best player on the pitch imho was the Bears Joe Jenkins, an impressive performance from the centre.
Great result again from our youngsters backed by a few 1st team.
Widcombe Garçon
Widcombe Garçon
Quote:Dorset Boy
Yes, 33-24 win fior the kids, with the bonus point.
Exeter firsts had a big win against Gloucester
Sorry just need to correct this, Chiefs had three players who would normally start playing, Roots, Skinner and Paul BB.
Last year, mistakenly in my eyes, we did field the first team, not so this year.
What I really came on here for though, was to clarify something I just read on the BBC sports pages. Somebody mentioned there was crowd trouble today, is this true? It would be a shame if so but I do feel some comments around last year's semi final have stoked up the rivalry to unhealthy levels.
BSJ, I was there too and didn’t see anything untoward. If anything the atmosphere at the Rec was a bit subdued! The thing that BCLC refers to is a very odd comment at the end of a very strange post. If there’d been anything in it I would have expected it to be all over social media by now and it isn’t.
I’d be surprised if there was genuine crowd trouble given the level of the game. Perhaps a minor scuffle being blown out of proportion?
I wasn’t aware of any trouble during the game. Where were the comments Big Chief Little chief?
Widcombe Garçon
Widcombe Garçon
Widcombe Boy, the comment is in the “comments” thread following the BBC Sport website review of yesterday’s games. It has the whiff of “troll” about it.
There was a group of young men at the back of the East stand who were over refreshed and whose chanting and language made one think they were confused and thought they were at a football match. Wouldn't stop when requested so it was enough for a message to the ASB line . Steward came up and, in the way of all naughty boys, they stopped. But hardly crowd trouble!
Quote:[www.bbc.co.uk]Devonport Lad
Widcombe Boy, the comment is in the “comments” thread following the BBC Sport website review of yesterday’s games. It has the whiff of “troll” about it.
Sounds like a troll, each point taking a swipe at a different club.
Thanks for the responses, I'm glad to hear it's not true. Every game with have some overly refreshed people in attendance, that's not crowd trouble.
I did feel the build up to last year's semi final was over the top. One of the best things about watching rugby is sitting next to fans from other clubs and chatting about rugby. Long may that continue.
I did feel the build up to last year's semi final was over the top. One of the best things about watching rugby is sitting next to fans from other clubs and chatting about rugby. Long may that continue.
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
One of the best things about watching rugby is sitting next to fans from other clubs and chatting about rugby. Long may that continue.
Hear hear. It's great to be passionate but it's only a game after all.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:dcshQuote:[www.bbc.co.uk]Devonport Lad
Widcombe Boy, the comment is in the “comments” thread following the BBC Sport website review of yesterday’s games. It has the whiff of “troll” about it.
Sounds like a troll, each point taking a swipe at a different club.
There are prominent signs around the ground and in the loos showing the number to call to report any unacceptable behaviour. If the poster saw crowd trouble they only had to report it.
PG
Quote:Big Chief Little ChiefQuote:Dorset Boy
Yes, 33-24 win fior the kids, with the bonus point.
Exeter firsts had a big win against Gloucester
Sorry just need to correct this, Chiefs had three players who would normally start playing, Roots, Skinner and Paul BB.
Last year, mistakenly in my eyes, we did field the first team, not so this year.
What I really came on here for though, was to clarify something I just read on the BBC sports pages. Somebody mentioned there was crowd trouble today, is this true? It would be a shame if so but I do feel some comments around last year's semi final have stoked up the rivalry to unhealthy levels.
Bit disingenuous if you ask me.
In addition to those 3 players you mentioned you had Hodge, Goodrick-Clarke, Iosefa-Scott, Tuima, Chapman, (Jimmy) Roots, and John, all of whom have had decent involvements with the first team this season.
Obviously there was some academy/fringe representation in the 23 as well, but it's not a particularly youthful or inexperienced selection.
For what it's worth though, I thought Gloucester's team had a similar level of experience in it, so it wasn't exactly a mismatch on that front.
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
Thanks for the responses, I'm glad to hear it's not true. Every game with have some overly refreshed people in attendance, that's not crowd trouble.
I did feel the build up to last year's semi final was over the top. One of the best things about watching rugby is sitting next to fans from other clubs and chatting about rugby. Long may that continue.
Agree about the unnecessary chat in the build up to last years semi.
It was odd, ott and pretty much all one way.... and didn't really end v well for them.
Jvg held his tongue but said it was very helpful for our prep after the game.
Before the semi, the vitriol was completely one way, which is fine, as Bristol chose to go down that route to try to gain an edge. However, the use of the term “hate” was unacceptable, whether Genge etc genuinely feel those feelings or not. Pro rugby players are role models- and hate has no place in our sport IMO.
Quote:Charlieboa1Quote:gaz59Quote:Charlieboa1
Bris look quite strong but our squad is similar to last week when we put 60 pts on sale, plus we have richards, mojo and harris in who are big upgrades on cuckson, harrison and the short term loanee.
May be proved horrible wrong but I am going for a convincing home win.
Comparing the two 23s I reckon that is very optimistic. Briz by 15 ish looks a more realistic prediction
9 point win and piling pressure on at the end, glad they didn't
let me down!
Think people underestimate how amazing last season was for improving our squad depth. Lots of players played in big games- prem, champions cup, knock out prem cup games. Set us up brilliantly- well done jvg and team for backing them.
They didn't let me down either. I stand by pre game prediction given the lineups. They had an international 9 and several more first team players than us
Highly impressive performance and result
Agree gaz , both happy with how it played out thankfully. On paper bris looked strong but hard to see past that sale performance the week before by us.
Think all (or nearly all) of kirk, frost, verden, jeanes, richards, staddon, cowan, green, bvdl, butt, mojo, muir, emens have played in the prem thanks to the excellent management of the squad (plus kepu, timmins, harris on the bench)
Think all (or nearly all) of kirk, frost, verden, jeanes, richards, staddon, cowan, green, bvdl, butt, mojo, muir, emens have played in the prem thanks to the excellent management of the squad (plus kepu, timmins, harris on the bench)
Wasn't able to attend so just the comments on here and YT highlights to go by but what struck me (again) was just how well drilled we looked.
As with the Sale game, it looks like whoever slots in does just that - everyone seems to know the system and their role within it. Can't help but compare the last 2 weeks with the disjointed performance vs Saints at Xmas where we hadn't trained together (and looked like we hadn't met before). Polar opposites.
Really look to be clicking again and the squad effort is there for all to see. The international boys will be following this and taking note I'm sure. Some of these youngsters making it hard for JvG to ignore for first-team duties.
As with the Sale game, it looks like whoever slots in does just that - everyone seems to know the system and their role within it. Can't help but compare the last 2 weeks with the disjointed performance vs Saints at Xmas where we hadn't trained together (and looked like we hadn't met before). Polar opposites.
Really look to be clicking again and the squad effort is there for all to see. The international boys will be following this and taking note I'm sure. Some of these youngsters making it hard for JvG to ignore for first-team duties.
Quote:hasta
I'm pretty astonished at how well Will Roue has slotted in.
Having watched him plays for BUCS, I'm not. He was regularly MOTM and has been absolute class for them. Surely he has a contract coming his way particularly as he is comfortable in a few positions, particularly 10 and 12. He also missed only 3 conversions out of 32 in the BUCS Super Rugby campaign.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Where has he come from pathway / reps wise? Or has he more or less rocked up at Bath Uni a bit out of left field?
Quote:theredseat
Where has he come from pathway / reps wise? Or has he more or less rocked up at Bath Uni a bit out of left field?
He was captain of Sedbergh school and (I may be wrong) played for Newcastle Falcons U18 Academy? His sister Annabel plays for Sale Sharks [www.salesharks.com]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:hasta
I'm pretty astonished at how well Will Roue has slotted in.
Having watched him plays for BUCS, I'm not. He was regularly MOTM and has been absolute class for them. Surely he has a contract coming his way particularly as he is comfortable in a few positions, particularly 10 and 12. He also missed only 3 conversions out of 32 in the BUCS Super Rugby campaign.
I get that he's playing well for Bath Uni but he doesn't even have an academy contract, right? (At least I can't see a profile for him on the offy). Slotting in and stepping up that smoothly is a really promising sign about the clarity of role that the team expects.
Am I right in thinking that if we go to Exeter and get nothing.....I know, I know
And Gloucester beat Sale at home and get 5 points
If we beat Gloucester and get 5 points
The we are second and through to the semi finals?
And Gloucester beat Sale at home and get 5 points
If we beat Gloucester and get 5 points
The we are second and through to the semi finals?
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Am I right in thinking that if we go to Exeter and get nothing.....I know, I know
And Gloucester beat Sale at home and get 5 points
If we beat Gloucester and get 5 points
The we are second and through to the semi finals?
So in our group, Sale and Bristol have no chance of progressing, which means I'd fully expect Gloucester to get a BP win against the Sharks in their next game, putting them on 24 points going into the final round.
Exeter are top on 23 points, but having played an extra game. We play them next at Sandy Park, and if they follow their selection policy of previous rounds, I'd expect them to have too many first teamers and get 5 points, putting them on a final tally of 28.
We're on 22 points, so if we were to pick up 2 bonus points next week then it would still leave open the possibility of us topping the group with a BP win against Glos.
So to summarise, if Exeter increase their lead over us in the group by more than 3 points, the best we can do is 2nd place. If they beat us narrowly, we could still get top spot (and a home semifinal).
Looking across at the other side of the draw, Tigers are guaranteed top spot in their group and host bottom side Quins in their final fixture, any win would also make give them home advantage in the final (if they get there). Whoever tops our group will probably be hosting Saints, which is another tough draw.
Quote:dcshQuote:[www.bbc.co.uk]Devonport Lad
Widcombe Boy, the comment is in the “comments” thread following the BBC Sport website review of yesterday’s games. It has the whiff of “troll” about it.
Sounds like a troll, each point taking a swipe at a different club.
Indeed- and has gathered 16 downvotes & no support. Has not posted since.
IMO no case to answer.
PG
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