Finn Russell has openly acknowledged that Bath’s own mistakes played a significant role in their 38-26 loss to Bordeaux in the semi-finals of the Investec Champions Cup. From the outset, Bath found themselves on the back foot after conceding a try just 110 seconds into the match. Despite staying competitive for much of the game, a decisive score by Ben Tameifuna with 11 minutes remaining sealed their fate.
Bordeaux, the reigning champions, will now face Leinster in the final in Bilbao on May 23. Riding high after a thrilling victory at Stade Atlantique Bordeaux Metropole, they enter the final as strong favourites.
Reflecting on the defeat, Russell told Premier Sports, “We’re gutted. We went behind in the first half but fought back in the second. Unfortunately, we didn’t capitalize on our chances and gave away soft penalties that led to costly positions inside our 22.”
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He added, “There’s a lot of frustration right now. At this level, mistakes get punished. Although it’s tough to see that as a positive in this moment, we’ll learn and come back stronger for Exeter next weekend. Reaching the semi-finals is an achievement, but being knocked out hurts. We’ll be back next year giving it everything.”
Bath’s head of rugby, Johann van Graan, praised the team’s effort but acknowledged they fell short when it mattered most. “I couldn’t be prouder of the players. They left everything on the pitch and fought until the final whistle,” he said. “Key moments in big games made the difference, and while Bordeaux deserved the win, we have no regrets. We head home with our heads held high.”