Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan expressed his satisfaction after the team secured a bonus-point win with a commanding 48-15 home victory against Harlequins in the Gallagher Premiership. The win marked a strong return to league action following Bath’s recent successes in the Champions Cup.
Santi Carreras stood out with two first-half tries, contributing to Bath’s impressive total of eight tries. This dominant performance helped Bath solidify their second place in the league standings.
Van Graan reflected on the match: “After the highs of the last two weeks in the Champions Cup, it was crucial to back that up in the Premiership. Scoring 48 points at home with eight tries to two is a gratifying win. It wasn’t our best game by any means, but we came for five points—and we secured all five.
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“While it wasn’t a classic display, winning and earning the bonus point was paramount. Every match offers lessons, and we identified areas to improve, particularly around the ruck where Harlequins applied intense pressure.”
Looking ahead to Bath’s next challenge against league leaders Northampton, van Graan acknowledged the strength of their upcoming opponents: “They are a very good side, as shown by their last-minute winning try today. We have huge respect for them but will focus on running our own race. We’re eager to face them again.”
Van Graan also commented on skipper Ben Spencer’s withdrawal due to a shoulder issue before kick-off: “We could have played him, but he was experiencing discomfort, so we chose not to take any risks.”
Harlequins head of rugby Jason Gilmore addressed his team’s injury woes following the match. “It’s certainly challenging, and assembling a full squad next week is going to be even harder. Losing both starting wingers in the first 25 minutes, then Jarrod Evans in the second half, forced us to cobble together our backline.”
He added, “We won’t know the full extent of the injuries until scans are complete. The deadline to bring in new players has passed, so unless it’s an emergency for the front row, we can’t add anyone new. The boys are training with great intent, but the absence of so many players affects the quality of our preparation. Execution in full 15-on-15 training is lacking. We need to regroup quickly and prepare for a crucial home game against Sale next week.”
Despite the setbacks, Gilmore praised captain Alex Dombrandt’s leadership and performance. “Alex has been outstanding in recent months. He’s eagerly taken charge throughout the Premiership Cup and even played in the Cornish friendly. His current form and leadership are the best I’ve seen from him—leading by example on and off the pitch.”