Bath Rugby’s second-string side put up a strong fight against a full-strength Bristol Bears team on Saturday but ultimately fell 36-14 at the Principality Stadium. With Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan resting most of his international stars ahead of a secured home semi-final, the younger squad members who previously helped lift the Premiership Rugby Cup earlier this season showed determination and skill throughout the match.
Two of Bath’s brightest prospects, Ewan Richards and Ciaran Donoghue, crossed the try line with Donoghue converting both scores. Bristol, however, were dominant, running in six tries thanks to Gabriel Ibitoye, Rich Lane, Gabriel Oghre, Fitz Harding, Will Capon, and Bill Mata. AJ MacGinty contributed three conversions, helping the Bears climb to third place in the Gallagher Premiership standings.
Here’s a closer look at the individual performances from the Bath Rugby squad:
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15 Tom de Glanville - 7
As one of the more experienced players, de Glanville started nervously, dropping a simple pass early on. He later found his rhythm, becoming a key defensive figure and probing the Bears’ backline well into the match.
14 Joe Cokanasiga - 8
Though quiet early, Cokanasiga’s quick instincts led to the opening try when he capitalized on a charged-down kick before setting up Donoghue’s score. His second-half efforts showed resilience despite missed finishing chances.
13 Louie Hennessey - 6
Faced with the tough challenge of marking Benhard Janse van Rensburg, Hennessey showcased physicality but struggled with missed tackles as the game progressed. His attacking contributions were promising, although a miscontrolled pass cost a near-certain try.
12 Orlando Bailey - 7
Starting his second league match, Bailey endured a heavy hit but adapted well out of position. He displayed creativity as a secondary playmaker, linking effectively with teammates and reminding fans of his early-season potential despite injury setbacks.
11 Austin Emens - 6
Emens was close to multiple line breaks but was consistently stopped short by strong defensive tackles, highlighting a day of near-misses rather than finishes.
10 Ciaran Donoghue - 7
Donoghue impressed with his attacking flair and defensive effort, including a crucial cover tackle on Harry Randall. Despite some handling errors, his ability to find space and execute incisive kicks stood out.
9 Louis Schreuder - 5
The veteran scrum-half faced a tough day, succumbing to pressure with two turnovers in his 22. A costly penalty for a slap on Randall underscored his challenging performance.
1 Francois van Wyk - 7
Returning after missing the previous game, van Wyk was a steady presence in the front row during a physical encounter.
2 Jasper Spandler - 7
Making his Premiership debut, Spandler’s notable turnover deep in Bath’s half proved vital, though a misjudged lineout throw gave Bristol scoring opportunities.
3 Archie Griffin - 7
In a rare start, Griffin absorbed heavy contact but demonstrated resilience and contributed effectively in tight play.
4 Ewan Richards - 9
Captain Fantastic. Leading by example, Richards combined athleticism and breakdown work brilliantly. He created and scored a well-executed try that epitomized his impact on the game.
5 Ross Molony - 7
Molony’s consistent hitting and leadership around the breakdown reflected his growing influence in recent weeks.
6 Josh Bayliss - 9
Bayliss was outstanding, showcasing breakdown expertise, speed, and relentless energy. His cover tackle on Randall and numerous breakdown contributions were highlights, marred only by one errant pass.
7 Ethan Staddon - 7
Staddon’s power in collisions and work at the breakdown stood out, although a few handling errors held him back.
8 Arthur Green - 8
The academy standout impressed with his physicality and threat near the try line, narrowly missing out on scoring.
Replacements:
16 Kepu Tuipulotu - 6
Put in solid defensive work but a costly fumble near the Bristol line overshadowed his effort.
17 Arthur Cordwell - 6
Experience showed, though a penalty against the scrum while on limited time was unfortunate.
18 Kieran Verden - N/A
19 Will Jeanes - 7
Strong presence off the bench adding skill and power; denied a try only due to a forward pass.
20 Tom Cowan - 6
Contributed with active work in loose play despite limited opportunities.
21 Tom Carr-Smith - 8
Provided crucial speed and precision after coming on, though a low pass prevented a certain try.
22 Ruaridh McConnochie - 7
Had limited possessions but made valuable contributions when given the ball.
23 Miles Reid - 8
Energized the side off the bench with powerful runs and work rate, helping Bath remain competitive.
Bath Rugby’s young squad showed resilience and promise against a tough Bristol Bears side. Their performances offer optimism ahead of the business end of the season.