Bath head coach Johann van Graan praised the decisive role played by his star-studded replacements bench as his team rallied to defeat Gloucester 30-26 at Kingsholm in a gripping Gallagher Premiership derby.
The reigning champions reclaimed the top spot in the league, overcoming a 14-point deficit thanks to two clutch late penalties from fly-half Finn Russell. Van Graan’s match-day reinforcements boasted five England internationals—Beno Obano, Charlie Ewels, Guy Pepper, Sam Underhill, and Henry Arundell—alongside powerful South African prop Thomas du Toit. Their impact was instrumental in keeping Bath in control during critical moments, ultimately overpowering a Gloucester side that matched them try-for-try despite their lower league standing.
“It was a great game,” Van Graan told TNT Sports. “Seeing Gloucester perform so well after their recent challenges made this an incredible derby. I’m extremely proud of my team—they showed grit and determination to the very end. Our lineout was shaky early on, but we held our nerve in the last 20 minutes, and the bench made a massive difference late in the game.
READ MORE: Three Key Benefits of North Somerset Joining the West of England Combined Authority
READ MORE: ‘Parent power’ and the year-long fight to save Newton House
“Being champions means everyone is targeting us, so squad depth and smart rotation are essential. We played some good rugby, though we are still chasing a full 80-minute performance, which is exciting for us.”
Bath’s tries came from Louie Hennessey, Dan Frost, Guy Pepper, and Finn Russell, who also kicked two conversions. This bonus-point victory puts Bath three points clear of Northampton, who have a chance to respond in their next fixture.
Gloucester fought valiantly, with tries from Val Rapava Ruskin, Charlie Atkinson, Seb Atkinson, and Aso Fasogbon. George Barton’s three conversions helped Gloucester gather two bonus points, moving them temporarily above Harlequins to eighth place.
Gloucester rugby director George Skivington commented, “I’m very proud of the group. We know our season’s challenges, but showing this fighting spirit is huge. The players gave everything—they were close to winning. Playing top teams like Bath comes down to fine margins.
“Seb Atkinson was outstanding; he might have played his way into the England squad for the Six Nations. This was probably our best game of the season. We’ll take positives, though it hurts now.”