Bath Rugby’s head coach Johann van Graan was elated after his side secured a dramatic 33-26 win against Exeter Chiefs in a pulsating Gallagher Premiership derby at the Recreation Ground. The victory was sealed by a last-gasp try from Arthur Green, capping off a relentless 38-phase attacking sequence that showcased Bath’s resilience.
Despite relinquishing a commanding 26-point lead, Bath fought back fiercely to regain the upper hand and climb back to the top of the Premiership table. Reflecting on the intense encounter, van Graan remarked, “It was a high-quality game between two very good teams and I’m very glad about the five points. What I’m most pleased about is that we regained possession from the kick-off and then executed a sustained 38-phase drive to score directly beside the posts. That’s exactly how we want to finish.”
Van Graan also praised referee Luke Pearce’s handling of the intense finale. “In the dying moments, top referees avoid making decisive calls and let the teams contest the outcome. We won that battle,” he said. The coach expressed satisfaction with his team’s defensive improvement and acknowledged Exeter’s clinical finishing when given opportunities, paying respect to the visitors for a strong contest.
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Following a disappointing home loss to Northampton the previous week, van Graan noted his side’s determination: “The first 20 minutes showed we were hurt. We rarely lose at home, and we want to start every game strongly. Tonight, with ball in hand, we played some of our best rugby.”
The match exploded into drama early when Exeter’s Cambell Ridl was penalized with a red card for upending Henry Arundell, leaving Exeter a player short for twenty minutes. Bath seized the numerical advantage, scoring four rapid tries through Beno Obano, Alfie Barbeary, Santi Carreras, and Ollie Lawrence, with Finn Russell contributing all three conversions.
Exeter fought back with tries by Joseph Dweba, Olly Woodburn, Greg Fisilau, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, while Henry Slade added the extra points. But ultimately, Green’s late touchdown ensured Bath’s victory and the full five league points.
Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter complimented Bath’s composure in the closing stages: “Credit to Bath for their character over those 30-plus phases. We defended really well until they finally breached our line. That composure at crucial moments made the difference.”
Despite the loss, Baxter highlighted Exeter’s rise into the Premiership’s top four as a testament to a focused pre-season and team clarity. “The players know their roles and where to channel their energy. That twenty-minute period was frustrating because our defensive discipline faltered, but we can learn and build from that.”
Both coaches left the field acknowledging a keenly fought contest, filled with lessons and moments of brilliance.