Bath Rugby maintained their strong form against local rivals Bristol Bears with a resounding 49-19 win in the PREM Rugby Cup at Ashton Gate on Friday night. This triumph marks their second derby victory in as many weeks, following last weekend’s league success.
The defending champions delivered an impressive display, crossing the line seven times. Hooker Kepu Tuipulotu and winger Charlie Griffin each scored two tries, while Billy Sela, Arthur Green, and Will Butt added one apiece. Fly-half Tom de Glanville was flawless off the tee, converting all seven attempts. Bristol Bears responded with tries from hooker Tomas Gwilliam, both stemming from driving mauls, and a late score from debutant Ellis Bevan.
Rugby analyst Sam Jess breaks down the individual performances from Bath’s lineup:
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15 Jack Woods – 6
Despite a quiet game, Woods demonstrated danger when receiving kicks, making quick, effective gains.
14 Tyler Offiah – 6
One of England’s promising talents showed defensive improvements despite limited attacking opportunities.
13 Chris Harris – 6
The British and Irish Lion struggled slightly in attack with handling errors, but remained a defensive pillar alongside Butt.
12 Will Butt – 7
Butt’s clever running helped set up Bath’s second try. Though he fumbled once, his defensive consistency and a well-earned try reinforced his impact.
11 Charlie Griffin – 8
A standout performer, Griffin combined solid defense with dynamic attacking play, including a crucial interception try that energized the team.
10 Tom de Glanville – 7
In his first start at fly-half, De Glanville was composed and accurate, kicking seven from seven conversions, including challenging angles.
9 Neil le Roux – 6
Le Roux shone in attack with sharp skills but struggled with box-kicking under pressure at times.
1 Scott Kirk – 7
Kirk’s scrummaging was excellent and provided a solid platform, though less spotlighted than his front-row colleagues.
2 Kepu Tuipulotu – 8
An exceptional talent, Tuipulotu contributed significantly with ball-playing, a key turnover, and two tries, including a strong maul finish. He also adapted well when shifted to number eight late in the match.
3 Vilikesa Sela – 7
Sela exhibited power and skill with a notable line off Le Roux for a try assist and strong scrummaging.
4 Will Jeanes – 6
Jeanes added physicality and stability, particularly in the lineout.
5 Ewan Richards – 7
The team captain led assertively, contributing to Bath’s confident performance across the pitch.
6 Arthur Green – 7
Green’s close-range dominance was rewarded with a try, and he impressed again with his running lines in open play.
7 Ethan Staddon – 7
A defensive stalwart, Staddon disrupted Bristol’s momentum and was influential in lineouts.
8 Alfie Barbeary – 7
Although he dropped the opening kick-off, Barbeary’s carriers were powerful. His impactful intercept run was unfortunately cut short by injury.
Replacements:
16 Jasper Spandler – N/A
17 Mikey Summerfield – N/A
18 Kieran Verden – N/A
19 Harvey Cuckson – N/A
20 George Timmins – 7
Timmins was an aggressive presence at the breakdown after an early substitute appearance.
21 Ieuan Davies – 6
Davies provided fresh pace around the rucks late in the game.
22 James Linegar – N/A
23 Sam Winters – N/A