Bath Rugby delivered a commanding performance on Saturday at the Recreation Ground, overpowering their closest rivals Leicester Tigers with a decisive 43-15 win. This impressive victory, coming just six days ahead of their EPCR Challenge Cup final against Lyon in Cardiff, showcased Bath’s determination, skill, and physical dominance.
The first half was a thrilling 40 minutes filled with high-calibre rugby, featuring fierce tackles and powerful runs from both teams. Intensity was high, demonstrated by yellow cards for Ollie Chessum and Tom Dunn. Bath took advantage with tries from Ben Spencer, Beno Obano, and Quinn Roux, leading 19-15 thanks also to Finn Russell’s precise conversions.
Leicester fought hard, with tries from Joe Woodward and Adam Radwan keeping them within striking distance at halftime. World Cup winner Handre Pollard contributed five points in the half through a conversion and penalty. However, Bath’s relentless pressure in the second half proved too much. Bath shut out Leicester’s scoring opportunities while adding tries from Tom Dunn, Will Stuart, Joe Cokanasiga, and Will Butt—sealing a commanding win in their final home game of the Premiership regular season.
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Rugby writer Olly D’Arcy breaks down the standout performances:
Fullback Ciaran Donoghue (8) impressed in his first Premiership start at fullback, overcoming early aerial challenges and showing sublime ball-carrying ability to create critical opportunities. Joe Cokanasiga (7) excelled more as the game opened up, capitalizing on breaks to power through the Tigers' defence, including a match-defining intercept try.
Midfielders Cameron Redpath (7) and Will Butt (8) provided energy and control, with Butt finishing the game emphatically by scoring Bath’s final try. Will Muir (6) displayed glimpses of his speed and power but was somewhat hampered by uncharacteristic handling errors.
Fly-half Finn Russell (8) had an impactful game with moments of brilliance, orchestrating Bath’s attack with skillful passing and game management, particularly shining in the second half. Ben Spencer (8) kicked things off with an electrifying opening try and maintained control throughout, guiding Bath’s tempo and territorial advantage.
In the forwards, Beno Obano (7) impressed with impactful carries and dominance in the scrum, while hooker Tom Dunn (9) was a revelation—combining defensive grit with attacking flair, including a try resulting from an exquisite dummy that energized the crowd.
Thomas du Toit (7) provided his usual hard graft in both scrum and open play. Quinn Roux (8) and Charlie Ewels (7) anchored the pack with relentless work rate, lineout efficiency, and defensive resilience. Back-rowers Ted Hill (7), Sam Underhill (7), and Alfie Barbeary (7) brought physicality and solid tackling, enabling Bath to control possession and territory, stifling Leicester’s chances.
Among the replacements, Will Stuart (8) and Max Ojomoh (9) made significant impacts, with Ojomoh’s interception setting up Cokanasiga’s crucial try.
This comprehensive victory sends a strong message ahead of Bath Rugby’s upcoming Challenge Cup final, highlighting their blend of tactical nous, physicality, and unpredictable flair.