Bath coach Johann van Graan lauded his team’s impressive squad depth after a hard-fought 31-26 victory over Sale in the Gallagher Premiership. Despite fielding an under-strength side, Bath secured a crucial bonus-point win, demonstrating the strength and resilience throughout their squad.
The reigning champions' scoring was spread across the team, with tries from Dan Frost, Louie Hennessey, Ethan Staddon, Bernard van der Linde, and Alfie Barbeary. Santi Carreras contributed three successful conversions, underpinning Bath’s clinical finishing. This came against a Sale team that put up a strong fight, scoring four tries themselves through Tom O’Flaherty, Rob du Preez, Luke Cowan-Dickie, and Tom Roebuck, with George Ford adding three conversions.
Van Graan emphasized the importance of adaptability and collective effort: “Every week is very important, so you’ve got to make sure that you are adaptable and find solutions on the field. The squad’s contributions are vital, not just the starters but the impact players who come on during the match.”
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One standout was replacement hooker Kepueli Tuipulotu, only 20 years old, who impressed off the bench with a deft assist to van der Linde’s try. Van Graan praised Kepu’s explosive talent and potential: “Kepu is one of the most explosive players I’ve coached and has huge potential. His quick thinking to deliver that crucial pass was a turning point. His pace and dynamism bring a significant edge to our play.”
Van Graan also highlighted Kepu’s ongoing development: “He’s still young and continues to work on all facets of his game—from carrying the ball to mastering line-outs and scrums—with guidance from our expert coaches Steve Scott and Richard Blaze. His progress is promising.”
For Sale, the defeat marks their ninth loss in twelve games, leaving director of rugby Alex Sanderson disappointed but determined. “I’m crestfallen. The effort was there, but the result wasn’t. It’s frustrating, yet we’ll regroup and focus on the Champions Cup next week,” Sanderson commented ahead of their clash with Harlequins.
Despite the loss, Sanderson is optimistic about their upcoming challenge: “Playing Harlequins on the world stage is a huge opportunity to showcase Sale and northern rugby. I’m excited to prepare and give our best.”