Bath Rugby solidified their position as serious contenders in the Champions Cup with a stunning 29-25 victory over Top 14 leaders Racing 92 at the Recreation. Trailing 22-8 into the latter stages of the match, Bath displayed resilience and skill, scoring crucial tries from Alfie Barbeary, Joe Cokanasiga, and Will Muir. Despite playing the final minutes with just 14 men after Barbeary’s expulsion, Bath secured the win and a bonus point, with Muir’s try in the 72nd minute pushing them over the line.
Key players, including Barbeary, Cokanasiga, Ollie Lawrence, Ben Spencer, and Finn Russell, made significant contributions to Bath’s impressive performance. Bath’s determined defense and strategic plays ultimately turned the tide in their favor, with Russell’s scorching break and Spencer’s pivotal move culminating in Thomas du Toit’s crucial try. Despite facing a formidable opponent in Racing, Bath showcased their attacking prowess, with Cokanasiga’s try and Spencer’s subsequent conversion leveling the score.
Bath’s victory was not without its challenges, as reflected in Barbeary’s two yellow cards for high tackles and use of the elbow. However, the team’s unwavering resolve and collective effort ensured they emerged triumphant, earning a well-deserved place in the Champions Cup last 16.
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As Bath prepares for an upcoming match against Toulouse, their success in securing a spot in the knockout stages has further strengthened their position in the competition.
Bath Rugby: Tom de Glanville, Joe Cokanasiga, Ollie Lawrence, Cameron Redpath, Will Muir, Finn Russell, Ben Spencer, Beno Obano, Tom Dunn, Thomas du Toit, Quinn Roux, Charlie Ewels, GJ van Velze, Miles Reid, Alfie Barbeary
Replacements: Niall Annett, Juan Schoeman, Will Stuart, Elliott Stooke, Josh Bayliss, Louis Schreuder, Sam Harris, Chris Cloete
Racing 92: Max Spring, Vinaya Habosi, Gael Fickou, Henry Chavancy, Henry Arundell, Antoine Gibert, Nolann le Garrec, Hassane Kolingar, Camille Chat, Thomas Laclayat, Cameron Woki, Will Rowlands, Wenceslas Lauret, Siya Kolisi, Kitione Kamikamica
Replacements: Janick Tarrit, Eddy Ben Arous, Trevor Nyakane, Boris Palu, Maxime Baudonne, Ibrahim Diallo, Tristan Tedder, Francis Saili
Referee: Andrea Piardi(Ita)
Assistant referee: Federico Vedovelli(Ita), Filippo Russo(Ita)
TMO: Matteo Liperini(Ita)