Defending Gallagher Premiership champions Bath Rugby overcame an early 12-0 deficit to secure a thrilling 47-31 bonus-point win against Harlequins on Friday night, setting the tone for their title defense this season.
Harlequins hit the ground running with Will Evans scoring a surprising hat-trick, but Bath fought back with Tom Dunn’s try keeping them close. At halftime, the score stood at 17-14 in favor of Harlequins. However, Bath dominated the second half emphatically, crossing the try line five times. Beno Obano opened the scoring shortly after the break, followed by two tries from Henry Arundell, and additional scores from Sam Underhill and Archie Griffin sealed a dominant away victory. While the hosts managed late tries from Jack Kenningham and Tyrone Green, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
Here’s a closer look at Bath Rugby’s individual performances from the match:
READ MORE: ‘Unspoilt’ South West Seaside Village Outshines UK’s Prettiest Town for Local Businesses
READ MORE: Bristol Considers Ticket Levy to Support Struggling Grassroots Music Venues
15 Tom de Glanville – 7
The full-back started a bit shaky but soon showcased his threat running join-the-line, proving why he was an unsung hero last season.
14 Joe Cokanasiga – 5
Struggled defensively, especially against Caden Murley, who helped set up Quins’ second try. Despite solid work under the high ball, he failed to deliver the power options expected on the wing.
13 Ollie Lawrence – 6
Returning from Achilles injury, Lawrence had moments of influence but was caught over-enthusiastic with offloads early. He adopted a more direct approach in the second half, contributing as Bath pulled away.
12 Cameron Redpath – 7
Took on tough carries and provided solid first receiver duties with some strong moments, doing much of the gritty work in midfield.
11 Henry Arundell – 8
Made an electrifying Premiership debut for Bath. After solid early defense, he exploded in the second half with a brilliant touchdown and a second well-earned try.
10 Max Ojomoh – 7
Playing fly-half for the first time since 2022, Ojomoh was quiet early but grew into the game, showcasing excellent playmaking and a crucial assist for Arundell’s first try.
9 Ben Spencer (c) – 7
Steady game management and tactical kicking underlined Bath’s control. Spencer earned the player of the match honors for his composure and leadership.
1 Beno Obano – 7
After a quieter first half, Obano powered over close to the posts early in the second half to spark Bath’s strong momentum.
2 Tom Dunn – 6
Overthrew an early lineout but redeemed himself with a pivotal throw and powerful driving maul leading to Bath’s opening try.
3 Vilikesa Sela – 7
Made his league starting debut showing strong carries and scored his first league try, despite some defensive sluggishness.
4 Quinn Roux – 7
Improved as the game progressed, delivering physicality in contact areas after an early defensive lapse.
5 Charlie Ewels – 6
A mixed performance with some defensive errors early but added power as the match advanced, though lineout consistency remained a concern.
6 Josh Bayliss – 7
One of Bath’s standout forwards early on with key breaks and vital defensive contributions.
7 Guy Pepper – 7
Struggled initially to slow down Quins’ pace but improved his decision-making around the breakdown in the second half.
8 Miles Reid – 7
Grew into the match with strong carries and relentless work at the breakdown, showing impressive endurance and determination.
Replacements:
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu – 8
Dynamic impact off the bench, notably improving lineout stability.
17 Francois van Wyk – 7
Showed power in physical exchanges despite uncontested scrums.
18 Archie Griffin – 7
Strong energy and scored his first league try.
19 Ross Molony – 7
20 Ted Hill – 8
Vital with his pace and breakdown work, recycling possession effectively.
21 Tom Carr-Smith – 7
Quick around the park, helping Bath maintain momentum late in the game.
22 Chris Harris – 7
Contributed skillful touches despite limited game time.
23 Sam Underhill – 8
Dominant off the bench with crucial breakdown clear-outs and a try, sparking Bath’s late surge.
Bath’s commanding second-half display demonstrated their depth and resilience, with key players rising to the occasion and delivering under pressure to defend their Premiership crown.