Finn Russell admitted that Bath’s own mistakes played a significant role in their 38-26 defeat to Bordeaux in the Investec Champions Cup semi-finals. From the outset, Bath found themselves chasing the reigning champions after conceding a try within the first two minutes. Despite their efforts to stay in contention, Bordeaux pulled away late in the match when Ben Tameifuna scored with 11 minutes remaining.
Bordeaux will face Leinster in the final on May 23 in Bilbao, entering the match as favorites after a thrilling game at Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Metropole.
Russell expressed the team’s disappointment in a post-match interview with Premier Sports. “We’re gutted,” he said. “We fell behind in the first half, fought back in the second, but missed key opportunities. We gave them easy entries into our 22 and made soft errors that cost us dearly. At this level, mistakes are punished.”
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He added, “There’s a lot of frustration and disappointment right now. But when we regroup, we’ll use this experience as motivation to improve. We’re also focused on preparing for Exeter next weekend. Reaching the semi-finals was an achievement, but being knocked out is tough. We’ll be back next year, ready to give it our all again.”
Bath’s head of rugby, Johann van Graan, praised his team’s determination despite coming up short. “I couldn’t be prouder. The players fought hard until the very end. There were key moments where we just missed out. Bordeaux are worthy champions and I wish them well against Leinster.”
He concluded, “Playing here was one of the biggest challenges, and we have no regrets. They were better by two scores, but we leave with our heads held high.”