Bath Rugby overcame a challenging first half to secure a 31-22 victory over Saracens at the Recreation Ground in the last 16 of the 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup. After trailing 10-0 at halftime, Bath’s England internationals sparked a stunning turnaround with tries from Henry Arundell, Joe Cokanasiga, Ben Spencer, and Ollie Lawrence.
The defining moment came in the 59th minute when Spencer finished an audacious attack launched from their own try-line. Despite Saracens’ relentless fightback, Bath sealed the win with Arundell’s second try in the 80th minute, assisted by Spencer’s playmaking brilliance.
Bath’s scrum rejuvenated after the interval, thanks largely to the introduction of prop Thomas du Toit, who earned player of the match honours. His impact steadied the pack, allowing Bath to seize control after a difficult first half marked by defensive lapses and breakdown struggles.
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Saracens dominated early on, scoring first through Charlie Bracken and maintaining pressure with strong defence and dynamic carries from players like Tom Willis. Yet, their inability to capitalize fully on opportunities—highlighted by missed kicks and discipline issues—allowed Bath to claw back into the game.
The match’s momentum shifted as Bath punished Saracens’ mistakes, with Arundell sprinting in for a try just after the break and Cokanasiga weaving through defenders to score. A yellow card to Beno Obano briefly disrupted Bath, but du Toit’s presence kept their scrum resilient.
Bath then produced a team try that started from deep within their territory. Cokanasiga broke free, linked up with Alfie Barbeary, and set up Spencer for a long-range finish. Saracens responded with a Max Malins try, but their push was hampered by a yellow card to Harry Wilson and Bath’s attacking prowess saw Lawrence and Arundell score further tries to close out the game.
Bath now face Northampton Saints at home in the quarter-finals on April 10, buoyed by a comprehensive and spirited victory that showcased their resilience and skill.
Team Lineups:
Bath Rugby: Santi Carreras, Joe Cokanasiga, Ollie Lawrence, Max Ojomoh, Henry Arundell, Finn Russell, Ben Spencer, Beno Obano, Tom Dunn, Archie Griffin, Quinn Roux, Charlie Ewels, Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Alfie Barbeary. Replacements included Thomas du Toit and Miles Reid.
Saracens: Elliot Daly, Noah Caluori, Nick Tompkins, Owen Farrell, Tobias Elliott, Fergus Burke, Charlie Bracken, Rhys Carre, Jamie George, Marcus Street, Maro Itoje (c), Hugh Tizard, Theo McFarland, Andy Onyeama-Christie, Tom Willis. Replacements featured Max Malins and Ivan van Zyl.