Bath Rugby delivered a commanding performance against Leicester Tigers on Saturday evening at the Recreation Ground, emphatically winning 43-15 against their chief title rivals. This dominant victory not only added a 14th league win to Bath’s impressive campaign but also gave them ideal momentum ahead of next weekend’s EPCR Challenge Cup final.
The two sides, poised as frontrunners for the Premiership crown, put on a near-perfect display from Bath, who looked irresistible. Depth proved vital as Bath’s bench made a significant impact, with Max Ojomoh, Guy Pepper, and Will Stuart entering the game and further dismantling the Tigers. The 28-point margin marked Bath’s largest triumph over Leicester in a decade.
Key tries from Ben Spencer, Beno Obano, Tom Dunn, Quinn Roux, Will Stuart, Joe Cokanasiga, and Will Butt, combined with four Finn Russell conversions, sealed the commanding win. The only minor downturn for Bath came with a potential ankle injury to Scotland centre Cam Redpath. Head coach Johann van Graan’s leadership has rejuvenated the squad, bringing a newfound swagger that fans hope heralds a golden era.
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Leicester remained competitive for much of the match and even led briefly before halftime. Despite scoring tries through Joseph Woodward and Adam Radwan and accumulating points via Handre Pollard’s penalty and conversion, they struggled to capitalize on extended pressure periods inside Bath’s 22. Bath, meanwhile, controlled the game without needing to unleash their full potential.
Bath started fast, taking the lead within four minutes when Sam Underhill secured a lineout and found Spencer, who broke through Leicester’s defence with a 30-metre solo try. Leicester responded with a Pollard penalty but soon went down to 14 men after Ollie Chessum received a yellow card for a high challenge. The hosts pushed for dominance, though Leicester fought back and briefly took the lead with Woodward’s try from a cross-kick.
Bath regained control through Obano’s converted try and led at halftime 19-15 after Quinn Roux’s score, converted by Russell. The second half saw Bath extend their lead, with Tom Dunn securing a bonus-point try and Will Stuart scoring to put the Tigers on the back foot.
With the game effectively settled, Bath’s substitutes continued to impress. Ojomoh intercepted a pass deep in their half before releasing Cokanasiga on a breakaway try. Will Butt then crossed to push Bath beyond 40 points.
Bath’s emphatic victory cements their reputation as favourites to claim the Gallagher Premiership trophy while delivering a statement of intent ahead of their upcoming European Challenge Cup final.
Match Officials:
Referee: Anthony Woodthorpe
Assistant Referees: Jack Makepeace, Wayne Falla
TMO: David Rose