Bath Rugby now know exactly what it takes to secure a coveted home semi-final spot in the Premiership after Leicester Tigers were beaten at home by Exeter Chiefs on Sunday.
Leicester had been flawless at home this season, boasting eight wins from eight matches in the Premiership. However, Rob Baxter’s Exeter Chiefs delivered an outstanding performance, not only winning the game but also earning a bonus point, which knocked Bristol Bears out of contention.
As a result, Bath’s path is clear: if they avoid defeat at home against Leicester next week, they will secure a semi-final at the Recreation Ground. That match is scheduled for 3pm on Saturday, June 13, following Northampton Saints’ decision to play their semi-final on Friday.
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Who Bath will face depends on the final day’s outcomes. It could be Leicester Tigers again if Saracens defeat Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park, or Exeter Chiefs if they overcome Saracens. If Bath slips up, they could face an away semi-final at Leicester, or even a Friday night fixture at Northampton if Bath lose heavily and Exeter secure a bonus point win.
Bath have been formidable at home this season, suffering just one defeat to Northampton Saints. However, Johann Van Graan’s men have struggled recently, losing four of their last five matches across all competitions, including defeats to Exeter Chiefs, Northampton Saints, Bristol Bears, and Bordeaux in the Champions Cup. Their sole win during this tough stretch was against Newcastle Falcons at home.
Despite recent setbacks, Van Graan remains confident, emphasizing that the semi-final destiny remains in Bath’s hands as they aim to defend their Premiership crown.
“We came here to win, but in the greater scheme of things, it’s in our hands and we’ve got the home advantage next Saturday,” he said.
Reflecting on the narrow 21-19 loss to Bristol Bears on Friday, Van Graan added, “The tries they scored came off our mistakes. Unfortunately, Henry contested the ball and it resulted in a penalty try. Then, at the other end, Dan Frost knocked on.”
“Leading 19-7 at half-time, we were in control and creating numerous opportunities. However, the theme of the game was that we didn’t finish our chances. In the second half, two critical moments—one where they counter-rucked us and another from a scrum just five yards out—showed we weren’t clinical enough. Credit to Bristol, but it was a game of missed opportunities on our part.”