Johann van Graan, Bath Rugby’s Head of Rugby, described the club’s triumphant Gallagher Premiership victory as “one of the best experiences” of his career. Bath secured the title for the first time since 1996 by edging Leicester Tigers 23-21 at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
Though the final wasn’t a classic in style, its dramatic conclusion kept fans on the edge of their seats. Leicester needed just two points in the final four minutes to snatch an upset victory. However, a critical and unpressured box kick by Ben Young allowed Bath to maintain possession and run down the clock, sealing their historic win.
Bath’s early second-half phases proved decisive. With tries from Thomas du Toit and Max Ojomoh complemented by Finn Russell’s 13 points from two conversions and three penalties, Bath built a lead Leicester would struggle to overcome. Despite Leicester’s relentless attack—scoring three tries through Jack van Poortfliet, Solomone Kata, and Emeka Ilione, alongside Handre Pollard’s three conversions—the Tigers fell short due to critical errors late in the game.
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Reflecting on Bath’s achievement, Van Graan praised everyone involved, from players and staff to supporters, emphasizing the team’s unity and resilience. “One of the very first things we talked about was connection,” he said. “Seeing Ben lift that trophy is something special. Being a champion is a mindset every day, not just winning a trophy. This group has done the unthinkable in just three years.”
After losing the previous final to Northampton Saints, Bath’s three major trophies this season — the Premiership title, the Premiership Cup, and the EPCR Challenge Cup — underscore a remarkable campaign.
Van Graan stressed the team’s focus and growth mindset throughout the season. “Our goal was to win the Premiership, and every week we came back to zero and tried to get better,” he said. Drawing from his experience with the Bulls, he added, “You must always train like you’re number two because others are coming.”
Looking ahead, Van Graan spoke about celebrations and future ambitions. The team plans to celebrate their success with family and friends before resuming training and preparing for next season’s challenges, including a pre-season tour in September.
Highlighting the squad’s depth and spirit, Van Graan acknowledged players from veterans like Tom Dunn to rising stars such as Ciaran Donoghue, emphasizing, “It’s not me; it’s all of us together. That togetherness will stay with me about this team.”
As Bath revels in a memorable victory, their eyes remain firmly on continued growth and success in the seasons to come.