Bath Rugby earned a hard-fought 40-34 win against Exeter Chiefs at the Recreation Ground on Friday night, taking some consolation after last season’s play-off semi-final defeat to the Devon side. Returning to the Rec for the first time since that semi-final 109 days prior, Bath built on their strong start to the season with a commanding first half, leading 26-10 at the interval, mirroring the same advantage they had in the previous meeting.
The home side opened the scoring with two early tries, starting with a swift intercept try by Cameron Redpath, followed by a clever snipe from Bernard van der Linde, giving Bath an initial 14-0 lead. Exeter responded through an Immanuel Feyi-Waboso break, which allowed Stephen Varney to finish off a try and ignite a competitive exchange.
Bath extended their lead with Dan du Preez scoring after a purposeful maul, but Exeter fought back with a powerful rolling maul try finished by Jack Yeandle. The visitors posed a constant threat and managed to reduce the deficit, but Finn Russell’s solo try just before half-time maintained Bath’s dominance.
The second half saw Exeter mount a spirited comeback, crossing the line three times within 14 minutes, including a brace from Feyi-Waboso and a try from Josh Iosefa-Scott. Despite this, Bath maintained composure and responded with two tries, including a powerful charge by Ted Hill. A penalty try was also awarded against Exeter, further tipping the scale.
Although Harvey Skinner converted a late penalty for Exeter, they were unable to penetrate Bath’s defence in the closing stages, securing a bonus-point win for the hosts.
In individual performances, scrum-half Bernard van der Linde impressed with his attacking threat, scoring a try and displaying sharp reactions throughout. Flanker Guy Pepper was influential, earning the official man of the match award thanks to key turnovers and breakdown work, despite a short injury spell. Ewan Richards and Ted Hill showcased grit and power in the back row, with Hill scoring a pivotal try after coming off the bench.
On the wing, Joe Cokanasiga contributed strong defensive efforts although he missed a couple of chances. Centre Ollie Lawrence had some bright moments but struggled defensively against Feyi-Waboso. Fly-half Finn Russell displayed moments of brilliance, including a notable finish to first-half play, despite some inconsistent kicking.
The forwards put in solid performances with Beno Obano dominating at scrum time and Quinn Roux disrupting Exeter’s lineout. Dan du Preez, making his home debut, demonstrated work rate and scored his second try in two games.
Replacements also made significant impacts, with Max Ojomoh energising Bath’s attack and Jaco Coetzee marking his first competitive appearance in over a year by securing an important turnover and strong carries.
Bath’s victory represents a strong statement early in the Gallagher Premiership season, displaying attacking flair and resilience against a determined Exeter side.