Bath head coach Johann van Graan was delighted following his team’s thrilling 33-26 Gallagher Premiership win over Exeter at the Recreation Ground. The victory came in dramatic fashion, sealed by Arthur Green’s last-gasp try after an intense 38-phase attacking sequence that left fans breathless.
Bath had built a commanding 26-point lead early on but found themselves under pressure as Exeter fought back strongly. Ultimately, Bath’s resilience paid off, propelling them back to the top of the Gallagher Premiership table.
Reflecting on the win, Van Graan said, “It was a high-quality game between two very good teams, and I’m very glad about the five points. What impresses me most is how we secured the ball straight from the kickoff and patiently worked through 38 phases to score right next to the posts—that’s exactly how you want to finish.”
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He also praised referee Luke Pearce’s management of the intense closing moments: “In the global game, the very best referees let the teams fight it out in the last moments without intervening, and we won that battle.”
Van Graan highlighted the team’s improved defensive effort compared to previous matches and expressed admiration for Exeter’s clinical finishing when given opportunities. “We were hurt after last weekend’s home defeat to Northampton, and I think you saw that in our focus during the opening twenty minutes. From a ball-in-hand perspective, tonight showcased some of the best rugby we’ve played.”
The match’s drama started early when Bath’s Henry Arundell was shown a red card for a high tackle by Exeter’s Campbell Ridl, leaving Exeter down to 14 players for 20 minutes. Bath capitalised by scoring four quick tries through Beno Obano, Alfie Barbeary, Santi Carreras, and Ollie Lawrence, with Finn Russell converting three.
Despite Exeter’s comeback efforts led by Joseph Dweba, Olly Woodburn, Greg Fisilau, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso—with Henry Slade adding conversions—the hosts held on thanks to Green’s decisive late try.
Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter acknowledged Bath’s composure and character, particularly in the closing phases: “They kept possession for over 30 phases and defended resolutely. That composure saw them secure the victory.”
Baxter was pleased with Exeter’s four-try bonus point and their resilience despite the loss. He noted the squad’s growth and focus coming from a strong pre-season and stressed the importance of learning from lapses during the game, especially the difficult 20-minute period when defensive shape was lost.
With this thrilling encounter behind them, both teams demonstrated the passion and intensity that define Gallagher Premiership rugby.