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BATH RUGBY v EXETER CHIEFS

By Bath Rugby

March 25^th, 2023

DYSON V15 DETECT ABSOLUTE VACUUM

A WELCOME FROM CEO TARQUIN MCDONALD

Welcome back to The Rec for our penultimate home fixture of the 2022/23 season.

Everyone at the club is focused on as strong as possible a finish to the current season’s campaign, starting today with our game against Chiefs. We are delighted to welcome players returning from both international duty and injury, as we look for a home win in today’s West Country clash.

At the same time the season ticket renewal window is now open, and we also cast one eye to the future and the 2023/24 campaign. Thanks to all of you for your support this season, we very much hope you will be with us again for the 2023/24 season. Next season Johann and the team will look to improve the pillars of our game – set piece, discipline – whilst also focusing on our attack and transition play.

Johann’s recruitment for next season – his first full recruitment cycle as Head of Rugby - supports this evolution of our game. This includes Finn Russell who will bring world-class game management and ball-playing attributes, together with another world-class player in Thomas du Toit who adds power and destructive ball-carrying ability. Our recruitment, together with the return of long-term injury absentees, provides for an exciting squad next season.

At the same time, we are working hard to bring forward plans for redevelopment of The Rec, and it is our intention to submit a planning application in summer 2023.

At today’s match, we welcome supporters to our second stadium focus group providing feedback and input to the design process. We are drawing on feedback and input from previous proposals, as we now accelerate and broaden our stakeholder engagement across planning and statutory bodies, supporters and corporate partners, local residents, and other organisations across the city. We provided a detailed project update at last Wednesday’s members’ event at The Rec, and we will be providing further updates to you all as well as asking specific questions by survey.

There is a lot of work going on to develop the design proposals for our planning submission. At the right time we hope that you will be able to vocally support our proposals – your proposals for your new home in the heart of Bath – and we will update you as we head towards the planning submission. Thank you in advance for your input and support.

Elsewhere, we are also working hard with the RFU and Premier 15s to understand how we can enter a professional women’s team in the league in the near future. Whilst their focus has been on launching the new look 10-team league from 2023/24 – comprising eight teams and a further two teams on a one-year licence - we cannot deny it has been a frustrating process. With that being said, we have a lot to look forward to – this summer we continue our Women’s Sevens programme and we are looking to develop our relationship with Bath Rugby Ladies with a view of having a Bath Rugby Women’s team playing in the Championship.

Huge congratulations must go out to Bath Rugby Ladies for a fantastic season in Championship South 1, securing the title with their 15th win last weekend. A great day for women’s sport in the region.

Finally, two hugely important people and pillars of the club. Firstly, you will have seen this week’s news that Neal Hatley will leave the club at the end of the current season to join the Wallabies as Forwards Coach ahead of their 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign. Neal has been a huge part of the club since 2012 with a break to serve England for three-and-a-half years running up to the 2019 Rugby World Cup final. We will properly recognise Neal’s contribution at the end of the season and we will wish him well – albeit not too well – in his new role!

Secondly today’s match will be the last for our long-standing medical administrator Helen Shand. Her job title belies the importance of her role, not least through the challenges and complications of COVID-19 when she played a key role in managing the complex protocols and supporting our ability to operate and bring players back into a safe training and playing environment.

Helen has been a part of our club since 1995 – the whole of the professional era – she has been absolutely outstanding and has made a massive contribution to our club. She has become, and will remain, a friend of many and we wish her all the very best in her exciting new role at a new Bath-based company. We will be welcoming Helen to The Rec in future when she can enjoy the game as a spectator and supporter!

Thank you for your support and enjoy the game.

Tarquin

VISIT THATCHERS

COMPEED RECOVERY JOURNEYS EP 4: BATH RUGBY AND ENGLAND PROP BENO OBANO

In Episode 4 of Compeed Recovery Journeys, we explore Beno Obano's knee injury, with expert insight from Bath Rugby Head of Medical Services Rory Murray.

The England prop shares his mindset in a fascinating watch.

2023/24 SEASON TICKET RENEWAL WINDOW NOW OPEN

NEW SIGNINGS. NEW STADIUM PLANS. NEW SEASON.

It’s time to ‘Come together for Bath’ as the renewal window for 2023/24 season is open. Now is your opportunity to purchase at our lowest price in the earlybird window, saving you up to 30% compared to buying on a match-by-match basis!

A flexible finance scheme is available allowing you to pay for your season ticket monthly, and junior season ticket prices have been frozen to encourage more families to support their heroes together at The Rec. There will be new stars to admire too, with British & Irish Lions fly-half Finn Russell arriving and another world-class international in World Cup winner Thomas du Toit.

There are a host of benefits alongside seeing your boys in Blue, Black and White, including access to unique Bath Rugby experiences as well as additional tickets available to purchase for discounted prices!

NEW SEASON TICKET LITE

For the 2023/24 season we have replaced the 10-Game Season Ticket with the rebranded Season Ticket Lite. It’s all the thrills of a season ticket with nine games included in total for those who can’t commit to a full season. All 10-Game Season Ticket Holders will have the option to renew as a Season Ticket Lite Holder, or upgrade to a full season ticket to join us in the upcoming season

BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION DONATIONS

At the point of renewal, all Season Ticket Holders will have the opportunity to donate to Bath Rugby Foundation. The Foundation support vulnerable children and young people across B&NES and are funded solely through donations. Their projects focus on building confidence, teaching life-skills and providing opportunities. You can come together to support the Foundation by opting to add a little extra to your basket to help fund the projects that will change the lives of the most vulnerable young people in our community.

KEY DATES TO REMEMBER

📆 Monday 24 April (23:59) | Earlybird window closes

📆 Tuesday 9 May (23:59) | Season Ticket Renewals window closes

📆 Monday 29 May | Club Membership Purchase Window opens (if any season tickets are available)

📆 Monday 5 June | Waiting List Purchase Window opens (if any season tickets are available)

📆 Sunday 12 June (23:59) | Last chance to purchase a 2023/24 season ticket!

We are excited to have you on our journey with us. Come together for Bath.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We have some handy FAQs all about season tickets and memberships to help with any queries you have.

read our FAQs

WORLD CUP-WINNING PROP THOMAS DU TOIT SIGNS FOR BATH RUGBY

Bath Rugby can confirm the signing of Rugby World Cup-winning international tighthead prop Thomas du Toit.

The physically menacing front row, who featured in the Springboks’ 2019 champion campaign in Japan, will join the Blue, Black and White after the 2023 Rugby World Cup along with British & Irish Lion and Scotland fly-half Finn Russell.

A devastating force in the scrum, du Toit provides another strong ball carrying option for the club following on from the recruitment of Alfie Barbeary, Ted Hill and Ollie Lawrence.

He has featured 15 times for the Springboks to date and has the ability to play loosehead prop too, as shown during his time at The Sharks.

Hear from Johann and Thomas about the signing

HATLEY TO JOIN WALLABIES AT THE END OF THE SEASON

Bath Rugby can confirm Neal Hatley will depart the club at the end of the 2022/23 season to become Forwards Coach of Australia.

Hatley has held a number of roles during his long association with the Blue, Black and White which dates back to 2012.

He was appointed Forwards Coach during his first spell in the West Country, helping the club reach the Premiership final in 2014/15, before returning as Forwards and Defence Coach after three-and-a-half successful years with England.

The 53-year-old was named Bath Rugby Head Coach in 2020 and reverted to his Forwards Coach position following the arrival of Head of Rugby Johann van Graan last summer.

Everyone at the club would like to wish Hats all the best for his new challenge with the Wallabies.

A replacement Forwards Coach will be confirmed in due course.

THE RECCY: SUNDAY FUN DAY!

For the first time this season, we've got the Sunday slot for our Round 21 clash against Exeter Chiefs.

Here’s a reccy of what’s in store as you get to The Rec for Sunday rugby!

FROM 13:00

Happy Hour 😃
Live music from The Shadow Monkeys
Bath Rugby Foundation raffle 🎟
Thatchers Fan of the Match 👋
Half-time Thatchers Apples 🍎
Food & beverage 🍔
Mascot Max 🦁
Face painter 🎨
Bath Rugby Supporters’ Club 🤝
Matchday Ambassadors 💬
Bath Rugby shop 🧢
Fan Radio 📻

Read the full Reccy

DICK LOVETT OPEN TRAINING SESSION

Another Bath Rugby open training session is returning to The Rec during the Easter holidays!

Hosted by Dick Lovett Land Rover, fans of all ages are welcome to come and watch the squad train on Wednesday 5 April from 12:00 until 15:00, with an opportunity to meet your heroes after the session – let the autographs and selfies commence!

The best bit about the family-focused event is it is FREE, making it the perfect half-term activity!

📆 When: Wednesday 5 April

⏰ Time: 12:00 - 15:00

📍 Where: The Rec, BA2 4DS. Please note, there will be no parking available on site. If you have accessibility needs that require parking, please email info@bathrugby.com.

SIGN UP NOW

VISIT TRIBUTE

YOUR RED CAR

BATH RUGBY LADIES CROWNED SOUTH 1 CHAMPIONS!

Last Sunday saw Bath Rugby Ladies 1st, 2nd and 3rd XV all play on the same day in a triple-match thriller at Lambridge.

In a huge day for everyone involved, Bath Rugby Ladies 1st XV were crowned South 1 Champions after storming to a 10-try victory over a scoreless Hove.

In the 62-0 win, Bath Rugby Ladies delivered try upon try, with scores from Nia Grundy (2), Anya Small (2), Emma Quarterman, Robyn Price, Trish Brown, Chloe Fletcher, Chloe Williams and Esme Bird, who scored the all important fourth try earning Bath Rugby Ladies the winning bonus point! Anya Small slotted six over from the tee, and earned herself the Back of the Match award.

Head of Bath Rugby Ladies, Sarah Burgess, talks to us about the team's journey to the final and the history of the team which was formed almost 20 years ago!

Bath Rugby Ladies was conceived in the spring of 2004 and was established as a partnership between Bath Rugby Foundation’s Jimmy Deane and University of Bath RFC coaches Kate Eddy and Marianne Ellis. Wanting to provide ‘something more’ for local female rugby players, Deane, Eddy and Ellis provided a structure in which players could concentrate on training and playing without additional organisational responsibilities.

The team’s inaugural season began in September of that year. The 2006/07 season saw the team promoted to South West 1, where they finished top in their first season and moved up to Championship 1 South for 2007/08. Following another successful season, the team topped their new league and reached Premiership promotion play-offs for the first time that year, losing out to DMP Sharks in the Championship North v South play-off.

The following season, Bath Rugby Ladies topped Championship 1 South again and narrowly missed out to DMP Sharks yet again, who then won Premiership promotion. Bath Ladies reached their third Premiership promotion play-off in 2010-11, beating Leos Ladies 73-0 in the North v South Cup but losing out narrowly to Old Albanians in the final play-off game. After nine years, the Deane-Eddy-Ellis era came to an end at the end of the 2011/12 season, leaving a lasting legacy for local sport and with many founder members of the team still playing. The following seasons saw a number of coaches lead the Ladies, with players taking on those organisational roles once again, with an eventual relegation into South West 1.

Current Head Coach John Gould took over the reins in 2016/17, helping Bath Rugby Ladies win promotion back up to Championship 1 South at the end of that season, where they have remained ever since. The club has grown from strength to strength, not only in numbers but ability and strength in depth. Bath Rugby Ladies boast three senior teams, a mixed ability team and a growing girls section.

The depth of the club has certainly assisted the on-pitch successes and has shown players come up through the ranks. The 2021/22 season saw the 1st XV narrowly miss out on the playoffs by one point, to Old Albanians. This season, however, the squad have been unstoppable, with 15 wins from 17 games and boasting the best defence in the league by only conceding 136 points. It took 200 minutes of game time for a team to score against the blue, black and white, with the first two league games being clean sheets.

Last Sunday, Bath welcomed Hove to Lambridge, where the home team ran in 10 tries and conceded none. This 62-0 win sealed their win of the Championship South 1 for the first time in over a decade. The hard work does not stop there, for the semi-finals of the Championship play-offs are to be held on the 16 April, at Lambridge Training Ground. Kick off will be 15:00, vs 2nd in the Championship North 1, Cheltenham Tigers. The winner of this game will be heading to Twickenham for the final on the 30 April v either Old Albanians, or Leicester Tigers.

Bath Rugby Ladies is still run by coach and player volunteers who organise the day to day running of the club, from fixture organisation, to sponsor acquisition, to event planning, to cooking. Without the help of these key volunteers, Bath would not be where it is today. There are also still some players part of the club now who were founding members of Bath Ladies. Sarah Holloway, Becky Thompson and Vicky Heslop have reached 250 caps for the club, with a Kat Southwell and Jane Youdan Bell to reach the incredible milestone shortly.

Bath Rugby Ladies would appreciate your support on the 16 April at Lambridge, where they play for a spot in the Championship Final at Twickenham!

"IT'S MAKING THE MOST OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY" - DUNN

Tom Dunn has returned from international duty revitalised and ready for four big games that remain in Bath Rugby’s 2023/24 season.

The homegrown hooker isn’t shy of sharing his emotions verbally or in action and he knows exactly what the next two home and two away games mean to him, starting with Exeter Chiefs on Sunday at The Rec.

“It’s about being proud,” he said.

“When you get to this time of year, there are always people that move on. These are their last opportunities to make memories and to play. Some people will also get their first opportunities to play as well due to injuries and what not.

“Every time you go out there, you realise there are a limited amount of games and it makes every one a little more special. For me, it’s making the most of every opportunity and taking a step forward for Bath Rugby.”

Head of Rugby Johann van Graan is certain of a couple of things going into Sunday: a physical Chiefs side and a fantastic home support from the Blue, Black and White faithful.

“I always expect one Exeter and that’s the physical, gainline, smart Exeter. They have a smart way of playing the game. If you look at their coaching staff and a big part of their squad, they have been together for a very long time.

“The game on Christmas Eve was a magnificent game of rugby. We fell one moment short in the final play of the game away from home. We’re sure they’ll come out firing but we’re looking forward to playing this game in front of a packed-out Rec.

“One thing that has been a blessing is the support this club has. The fans turn out every week and they love the game. The players love playing at The Rec and I’d like to believe they’ve seen there is improvement but for us as a group it’s about execution now. It’s brilliant to play in front of them.”

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ACTION: BECOME A MATCHDAY AMBASSADOR!

Our matchdays at The Rec are regarded one of the best in the Premiership. From the atmosphere in the fan village, to the cheering that echoes around the streets of Bath as the Blue, Black and White crash over the try-line – you are part of it all.

With a new Head of Rugby and a plethora of new player signings, we wanted to extend the introduction of new incentives to our dedicated supporters; Bath Rugby’s matchday ambassadors are another new addition this season.

BATH RUGBY SUPPORTING LOCAL POLICE IN IMPORTANT CAMPAIGN

A Bath Rugby matchday is an occasion for the whole city. Whether you're watching the game at The Rec or you've travelled into Bath to watch in one of the many pubs and bars.

Our fixtures see thousands of supporters flock from all over B&NES, Wiltshire and beyond to watch their team run out come rain, snow or shine.

Bath Rugby want to make sure it is doing all it can to ensure the full matchday experience is a safe space for its supporters and wider community, and this includes the journey into the city.

In a project to tackle violence against women and girls in the South West area, the club has joined forces with Avon & Somerset Police and British Transport Police to promote their campaign to put a stop to harassment.

Launching the initiative last summer, British Transport Police have outlined some of the ways in which you can be an active bystander, whereby you can safely challenge unacceptable behaviour on a matchday and when travelling into Bath.

BATH RUGBY 26-18 EXETER CHIEFS

9 April 2011

Bath got the better of West Country rivals Exeter 26-18 at the Rec to boost their hopes of qualifying for next season's Heineken Cup.

Matt Banahan was the star as he scored the opening try for the hosts and also laid on another for Matt Carraro, although the Chiefs pushed their neighbours all the way.

Luke Arscott had crossed to put Chiefs into an 8-6 lead before Banahan’s contributions. Butch James kicked a goal to make it 21-8 and although Gareth Steenson followed suit, Michael Claassens saw the game out before Matt Jess’ late consolation.

Bath Rugby: 15 Sam Vesty, 14 Matt Banahan, 13 Matt Carraro, 12 Shontayne Hape, 11 Nick Abendanon, 10 Butch James, 9 Michael Claassens; 1 David Flatman, 2 Lee Mears, 3 David Wilson, 4 Peter Short, 5 Danny Grewcock, 6 Stuart Hooper, 7 Guy Mercer, 8 Luke Watson

Replacements: 16 Pieter Dixon, 17 Nathan Catt, 18 Duncan Bell, 19 Ignacio Fernandez Lobbe, 20 Josh Ovens, 21 Mark McMillan, 22 Nick Scott, 23 Jacques Boussuge

Exeter Chiefs: 15 Luke Arscott, 14 Matt Jess, 13 Jason Schoemark, 12 Sireli Naqelevuki, 11 Nic Sestaret, 10 Gareth Steenson, 9 Junior Poluleuligaga; 1 Brett Sturgess, 2 Neil Clark, 3 Hoani Tui, 4 Tom Hayes, 5 Chad Slade, 6 Tom Johnson, 7 James Scaysbrook, 8 Richard Baxter

Replacements: 16 Chris Whitehead, 17 Ben Moon, 18 Ignacio Elosu, 19 Dave Gannon, 20 James Phillips, 21 Garrick Cowley, 22 Phil Dollman, 23 Ignacio Mieres

THE OPPOSITION

Exeter Chiefs enjoyed extra-time delight last time out against London Irish as they secured the 2022/23 Premiership Rugby Cup title.

"For all the talk that Exeter’s golden generation will disperse at the end of the current campaign, Chiefs fans need not worry too much about those who are set to follow in their successful footsteps."

That was the opening paragraph of the Chiefs' match report following the triumph with many of their senior players such as Sam Simmonds, Joe Simmonds, Jack Nowell, Harry Williams and Luke Cowan-Dickie set for summer departures.

The group of leavers have experienced a lot with each other other the years including Premiership and European successes and whilst they remain in the top four hunt, and in the Champions Cup knockouts, they will want to end their time at Sandy Park on a high.

Like most Exeter teams in years gone by, this season they have been physical, making the most carries (423) across the Premiership. Their discipline has raised eyebrows this term with 228 penalties conceded putting them top of the charts.

ONE TO WATCH - JACK NOWELL

Poised to sign for Stade Rochelais and move to the Top 14 like many of his Exeter teammates, Nowell has lit up the Gallagher Premiership for many a season. The full-back-cum-wing has played in 11 league games in 2022/23, scoring three tries, including one last time out against Newcastle Falcons. With ball in hand, he is lively, beating 45 defenders from 643 metres and making six line breaks, but he is useful at the breakdown too with four jackal turnovers.

MEET MACKENZIE GRAHAM

Returning from the England U20s Six Nations training squad, MacKenzie Graham has been showing the type of dynamic forward he can be. Get to know MacKenzie a little more:

Club: Bath Rugby

Position: Back row

School: Beechen Cliff

Favourite moment: I scored a try on my Bath Rugby debut against Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate.

Dream goals: My dream in rugby is to play for England Under-20s as well as winning the Premiership one day. I was lucky enough to be called into this year’s U20 Six Nations camp but my goal is to make my debut.

Hobbies outside of Rugby: Outside of rugby I’m busy at The University of Bath where I attend lectures and study. I’m also involved in the Uni's rugby team with Team Bath. In my down time I like to play golf with my mates.

Biggest impact on my development: Nathan Catt has had a big impact on my development as a player. He helped me develop while I was playing Under-18s rugby and pushed me to work on certain areas of my game and developing me as a player. Through his support, he helped me achieve my goal of signing an Academy contract with Bath Rugby.

What I want people to say about me at the end of my careers: At the end of my career I want people to say that I’m an exciting and unexpected attacking player with crazy hair!

GO KARTING WITH BATH RUGBY

Bath Rugby players recently went head-to-head on the go-karting track with their Bristol Bears counterparts.

Find out how Will Muir got on with 'dry tyres'...

BECOME A NEXTGEN MEMBER!

NextGen, the destination for junior Bath Rugby fans.

NextGen membership is designed specifically to cater for the next generation of players and Bath Rugby fans aged between 4 and 16, providing exclusive access to child-friendly content, unforgettable experiences and fantastic competitions.

If you fit the below criteria, NextGen membership has you covered!

✔️ Forever Blue, Black and White

✔️ Aged 4-16

✔️ Rugby fanatic

✔️ Enjoy watching funny content

✔️ Excited to win exclusive prizes

And the best part - it's all FREE!

SIGN UP TO NEXTGEN TODAY

BECOME A REGULAR BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION DONOR

The work we do at Bath Rugby Foundation is funded solely by donations. Bath Rugby supporters are renowned for being the some of the best in the Premiership and your generosity thus far is something every person at the Foundation is so very grateful for.

We hold projects that vary from educational programmes, to health and wellbeing sessions, to creating independent pathways for young adults in our community.

If you would like to help in the work we do at the Foundation, you can become a regular donor by giving £10 each month. If 1,000 supporters were to give £10 a month for the next 12 months, we could raise £120,000 to support vulnerable and challenge children and young people in our community.

Thank you for your continued support throughout the season. The children and young people we help at the Foundation are testament to the brilliant support you have shown us over the years.

BECOME A REGULAR DONOR

COACH CARYL SELECTED FOR WALES

Congratulations to our coach, Caryl Thomas, who will feature on the bench for Wales this weekend for the opening round of the TikTok Women's Six Nations.

Taking on Ireland at Cardiff Arms Park, Wales will look to get their campaign off to a winning start, and Caryl will be hoping to provide a huge impact as she comes off the bench in the number 17 jersey.

Caryl has been juggling her fantastic work at the Foundation whilst training in Ioan Cunningham's Six Nations squad, putting her hand up for selection for the opening fixture of the tournament.

The prop will be looking to add to her 63 international caps over the course of the campaign and is one of the most experienced players in the Wales Women's squad.

Everyone at Bath Rugby Foundation wishes Caryl and the rest of the Wales team the best of luck for Saturday!

You can watch Caryl with Wales, and the rest of the Six Nations fixtures on BBC iPlayer.

The game kicks off at 14:15 on Saturday 25 March.

JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION FUNDRAISING DINNERS

In what is one of our biggest fundraising events of the year, we'd love for you to join us as we celebrate a year of Bath Rugby Foundation work and raise funds to continue to change young lives across Bath and beyond.

Happening on 27 and 28 April 2023, individual seats or the purchase of a full table are available now!

In what is always a fantastic event, you'll enjoy a three-course meal, an auction with huge prizes, live entertainment and more.

FLY TO FUNDRAISE - PORTUGAL 2023

We're flying to Portugal to fundraise, and want YOU to join us!

Mediterranean sun, a luxury apartment and an award-winning chef are just some of the components that will make up a superb weekend in the name of Bath Rugby Foundation.

Taking place from 28 September to 2 October 2023, choose whichever type of holiday you like, from cycling, golf, hiking, water sports or to simply relax at the Boavista Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort in the heart of the Algarve.

LEARN MORE

RUN BATH HALF FOR BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION!

If you're looking for something to work towards throughout 2023, or perhaps you want to break your own boundaries, then why not run Bath Half in the name of Bath Rugby Foundation? The funds raised will go towards helping children in our community and break the cycle of disadvantage experienced by those in poverty.

What you'll get:

Limited edition running vest
Training sessions
Massages to ease your training and on the day of the race
Secure bag storage
Food and drink
Ongoing support

BOOK YOUR PLACE

MIXED ABILITY RUGBY CUP 2023

Mixed Ability Rugby is for anyone and everyone, no matter your rugby ability. Whether you want to meet new people, return to playing rugby, or simply have a bit of fun, mixed ability rugby is the answer.

This format of rugby takes the same format as any other rugby team, but in mixed ability rugby, there's no such things as not enough experience or not being good enough.

Taking place this April, registration is now open for team entries to our Mixed Ability Cup 2023!

🗓 Saturday 29 April 2023

📍 Walcot RFC, Bath, BA1 9BJ

🕚 11:00 - 17:00

LEARN MORE

A BRSC POEM

The Chiefs are coming, making that sound, it really does make your head spin around.

Feathers and head dresses, funny cut hair, though not as grizzly as that Bristol bear.

Jack will be here but not for long. he’s got a hunger for gallic that’s strong.

Baxter is planning for next season without, but first he is needed for England’s tough bout.

The Simmonds will play with their hearts on their sleeve, but they will be met with van Graan's plans indeed.

Our boys are believing, growing stronger together, the season will prove they belong forever.

Dunnie and Attwood in Blue, Black and White, together with Horse and Underhill will fight.

Our boys are behind the team for sure, believe in them and they will secure.

Finn has excited the fans at The Rec, hushed whispers have grown and it’s easy to detect.

The growing anticipation of his arrival will mean, simply, we will have the most brilliant team.

The Gallagher competition is there to be won, I assure you Bath Rugby is not playing for fun.

Niall left the green isle, his belief is true, that thorough the South African the team can hew.

A shimmer of silver, a cup I believe, we will be winners of the Premiership indeed!

WELCOME BACK FOR ANOTHER WEST COUNTRY DERBY

It seems an odd ending to the season this time round, with long breaks between games and only two home games in as many months.

Next season we will have a late start to the Premiership season due to the World Cup. But don’t worry - rugby will return to The Rec in September, probably initially with some Premiership Rugby Cup games. Bath have not only managed to retain the top members of the squad, but have made five top class signings in preparation for next season.

Bath Rugby Supporters’ Club would also like to offer its congratulations to all the players and officials of Bath Rugby Ladies. It was an outstanding achievement for the 1st XV to win their league in such a comprehensive manner.

After several years of disruption, we have managed to get our events programme back up and running. Our two most recent events were extremely well received by our members and thoroughly entertaining. On 22 February we held a fundraising event in support of Bath Rugby Foundation. David Trick invited “Ollie” Redman, John Hall and Jeremy Guscott along to the clubhouse to entertain us with stories and anecdotes from halcyon days at The Rec. It was a fantastic night and David has promised to repeat the event next season.

An old favourite returned to The Rec on the 14 March as Head of Match Officials at EPCR, Tony Spreadbury, once again gave us a unique insight into the life of a referee. Tony gave us an interesting and amusing evening delivered with in his usual West Country aplomb.