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BATH RUGBY V LEICESTER TIGERS

By Bath Rugby

November 10^th, 2022

DYSON V15 DETECT ABSOLUTE VACUUM

A WELCOME FROM TARQUIN MCDONALD

Welcome back to The Rec for a fixture full of history as we host Leicester Tigers in Round 10 of the Gallagher Premiership.

It has been over 100 years since Bath first played Leicester and there have been many enjoyable occasions notwithstanding the 1994 Pilkington Cup final and, more recently, the 2014/15 Premiership semi-final.

Facing the reigning champions at home is a great challenge for us and it is extremely positive to be heading into the game following back-to-back league wins against Northampton Saints and Newcastle Falcons. The squad has been progressing steadily since Round 1 and we are now seeing their hard work transfer into victories.

Whilst injuries continue to impact team selection, we are also now seeing players returning from injury and tonight we are delighted to see Ben Spencer and Orlando Bailey starting for Bath.

The availability of players is a more significant issue this time of year with the fixture overlaps during the Autumn International window, as it is again later in the season during the Six Nations. We are always delighted for our players when selected for their nation, the opportunity for them to represent their country, the test match experience they gain.

However, these proud moments for our players should hold their own space in the calendar without overlapping the club game. This was the direction of travel pre-Covid. As Premiership Rugby works through the solutions for the sustainability of the club game, there is the opportunity to address this issue as part of a holistic solution for rugby considering league size, fixture calendar and overlaps, player welfare.

Last month we were absolutely delighted the Supreme Court refused an application seeking to appeal the ruling of the Court of Appeal of 4 February 2022, which means we can proceed with our planned redevelopment of The Rec.

This is a significant moment in the history of the club, and although it has felt drawn out and at times been frustrating for ourselves, our supporters and the city, we finally have the certainty we need as a club to bring forward comprehensive proposals for a new stadium in the heart of Bath.

Next steps will be discussed in due course and we will reengage with stakeholders across the city – including you our supporters - regarding the development, as we bring forward and share our plans.

Another historic moment for the club will be next week’s match against the Barbarians and we are delighted to welcome back Matt Banahan and Elliott Stooke for the fixture – we hope they go well, but not too well!

The match will be an incredible opportunity for our supporters to see their club go up against one of the most famous and entertaining sides in rugby and we look forward to seeing many of you there on 20 November.

Further enhancing the use of The Rec, we will host England Under-20s’ U20 Six Nations fixture against France in March 2023.

Over the years it has given the club great pride in seeing so many of our Academy players represent their country at age-grade level and it gives us great pleasure in playing our part in promoting the development of England’s Under-20 players by bringing one of their matches to our home.

It will be a brilliant occasion for the City of Bath and I’m sure everyone will get behind this exciting spectacle.

This week we were deeply concerned to learn that Levi Davis, who played for the club from 2016 to 2020 was reported missing. We have supported the campaign for information as have our staff and players. Our thoughts are with his family, and we hope that he is found soon and back safely with friends and family.

Lastly I must report on the sad loss of Brendan Perry this week. Brendan was a great servant of the club, and a true gentleman. On a personal note Brendan was always incredibly welcoming to me early in my time at the club, sitting perched on his bar stool in the corner of the President’s Lounge – “his spot” – at our home games. Always a friendly grin and a warm welcome. Our thoughts are with Betty, Matt and all of Brendan’s family and friends at this difficult time.

Today’s fixture is one I know Brendan would have relished and he would definitely want every one of you to enjoy today’s game against Leicester - COYB!

Tarquin

VISIT THATCHERS

COMPEED RECOVERY JOURNEYS: EP 2 - TOM DE GLANVILLE

In a brand new feature for the 2022/23 season, Compeed Recovery Journeys will focus on an individual player in the squad each month, looking at their return to fitness with the Bath Rugby medical team.

In episode two, Tom de Glanville chats through his hamstring injury and the measures taken to get him back to full fitness.

Head of Medical Services Rory Murray provides expert insight and analysis throughout the feature, discussing how the team have worked with Tom to strengthen the area.

THE BAABAAS ARE COMING TO TOWN!

The BaaBaas are coming to town!

Bath Rugby will host the most famous invitational side in world rugby this autumn when Barbarians F.C. visit on Sunday 20 November, kick-off 14:00.

It is an exciting coming together of two of the game’s great clubs with the last meeting taking place in 1994.

Club President John Hall and other Bath legends Jon Callard, Mike Catt, Phil de Glanville and Andy Robinson all featured in a famous 23-18 victory at The Rec – a match which marked 100 years since the first game between the two.

Read the full story

DICK LOVETT LAND ROVER HOST OPEN TRAINING SESSION AT THE REC

“It’s lovely for the children to be able to chat to the players. They idolise them and they made it very special.” – Dick Lovett Land Rover hosted a Bath Rugby training session in front of young fans.

With the sun shining and The Rec basking in perfect autumnal weather, the full Bath Rugby squad headed to their home within the city for an open training session watched by plenty of devoted, young fans.

Hosted by Dick Lovett Land Rover, nearly 500 fans flocked to the stadium to enjoy family fun on the outfield, watched the Bath Rugby squad in full training mode and get autographs and selfies after the session has finished.

Full story here

BANAHAN BACK AT THE REC WITH THE BARBARIANS!

History is to be made! The Rec will play host to the world-famous Barbarians for an autumn fixture against the Blue, Black and White on Sunday 20 November 2022.

The exciting clash against the iconic side replaces Bath’s Round 26 Gallagher Premiership match against Worcester Warriors, originally scheduled for Saturday 6 May 2023, which subsequently is now King Charles III's coronation.

All season tickets, including the 10-Game Season Ticket, and seasonal hospitality are valid for the game.

The Barbarians previously visited The Rec in 1994 with Club President John Hall and other Bath legends Jon Callard, Mike Catt, Phil de Glanville and Andy Robinson all featuring in a famous 23-18 victory.

Matt Banahan will make his return to the field as part of the BaaBaas squad! He will make one final competitive outing before going back into retirement.

SECURE YOUR SEAT

MOROZOV SIGNS UNTIL END OF THE SEASON

Bath Rugby can confirm Valeriy Morozov has signed for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign.

The loosehead prop originally re-joined the Blue, Black and White on a short-term injury cover loan but will remain part of Johann van Graan’s squad, strengthening the club’s front row options.

Morozov spent time at The Rec last season, making his debut in the Heineken Champions Cup against Stade Rochelais.

He made a significant impact in the scrum during his 13 appearances and provided a strong ball carrying option.

VISIT TRIBUTE

THE RECCY: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO FOR OUR REMEMBRANCE DAY MATCH

We’re welcoming the Gallagher Premiership champions to The Rec this week as the Blue, Black and White take on Leicester Tigers.

As the match falls on Armistice Day, we’ll be highlighting the work of the Royal British Legion and giving the pre-match and half-time stage to soldiers from the 11th (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment.

Here’s The Reccy in full of what we have for you under the Friday Night Lights this week.

FROM 17:45

Remembrance service
Bumper raffle in aid of Bath Rugby Foundation and the Royal British Legion
Live music from The Bluebirds
Happy hour
Huge selection of food & beverage
Bath Rugby Supporters' Club
Purchase your tickets for the Barbarians fixture!
The Retro Collection is back in stock - get yours!

READ UP ON THE RECCY

YOUR RED CAR

DEBUT DELIGHT FOR WORBOYS

George Worboys recently enjoyed a stellar Premiership debut for Bath Rugby as the Blue, Black and White picked up their first victory of the season against Newcastle Falcons.

Speaking after the dust had settled from the Blue, Black and White's triumphant win, George reflected on what it was like to get his first Premiership cap and to win in front of a crowded home stadium.

For your chance to access exclusive content, become a Club Member for just £50 for the year! You'll get access to exclusive updates from the team, discounts in the Bath Rugby shop and around The Rec, as well as a discounted PRTV pass - plus much more!

BECOME A MEMBER

"IT'S ABOUT STAYING ON COURSE" - REID

Bath Rugby made it two wins from two in the Gallagher Premiership, and three wins in as many visits to Kingston Park, against Newcastle Falcons last time out.

It wasn’t the prettiest of matches but the Blue, Black and White got the job done in the North East courtesy of tries from Ted Hill and Ollie Lawrence.

Back row Miles Reid had another positive game up front and he says it’s up to the squad to keep the momentum up, starting with Leicester Tigers on Friday night.

“The boys are really happy at the moment,” he said.

“As players we all knew that at one point it was going to snap and change for us. We’ve been working so hard to get better week on week and adjusting to a different style of rugby and we trusted it was going to come. It has come now and it’s just about staying on course and getting better from week to week.

“A win at home was massive for us and then to go away and get a good win at Newcastle, which is actually a really tough place to go, is really pleasing. It was a massive challenge for us against them and the fact we ground out the win gives us confidence and this Friday we have a similar thing again. Leicester have a strong pack, good kicking game and it’s another challenge but everyone here can’t wait for it.”

Growing up as a Bath fan, Reid has experienced many head-to-heads between his club and Leicester over the years.

The fact that the upcoming meeting is a Friday adds to his excitement.

“You look back at some of the big games against Leicester… the semi-final at The Rec, the 45-0 and even last year it was a pretty close affair which they won.

“They are almost like Test matches. They have a good kicking game where you have to stay in the battle a long time against them and you have to be patient. It’s probably our biggest game of the season yet.

“It’s a historical game and it’s a Friday night which makes it even better. Friday nights in the middle of Bath at The Rec are some of my favourite games and I think a lot of the boys are hungry for Friday night games.”

VIEW RILEY ENGLAND

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 21-20 LEICESTER TIGERS

A last-minute conversion from Ben Spencer secured Bath Rugby a fantastic win over rivals Leicester Tigers in round 16 of the Gallagher Premiership.

With the clock seconds away from full-time, the Bath scrum-half nailed a touchline kick to capitalize on a try from Will Muir, ultimately winning the game for Bath Rugby by a single point.

Despite Tigers taking an early lead via the boot of George Ford, it was the Blue, Black and White who were the first to get over the try-line, with Will Muir sliding into the far corner to grab Bath their first points.

Bath had to wait until the 67th minute until their next try, this time from flanker Miles Reid who powered over the line after several pick-and-goes from the pack.

Despite two tries from Bath, it was Tigers who were leading the game in the 79th minute, thanks to the boot of George Ford and a try from tigers’ Matias Moroni.

Bath kept believing and forced the game in their favour, winning in the final moments of the game after Ben Spencer sent Will Muir over for his second and converting his assisted try.

Bath Rugby: 15. Anthony Watson, 14. Joe Cokanasiga, 13. Jonathan Joseph, 12. Cameron Redpath, 11. Will Muir, 10. Josh Matavesi, 9. Ben Spencer; 1. Beno Obano, 2. Jack Walker, 3. Will Stuart, 4. Josh McNally, 5. Charlie Ewels ©, 6. Taulupe Faletau, 7. Sam Underhill, 8. Zach Mercer

Replacements: 16. Jacques du Toit, 17. Juan Schoeman, 18. Henry Thomas, 19. Mike Williams, 20. Miles Reid, 21. Will Chudley, 22. Orlando Bailey, 23. Alex Gray

Leicester Tigers: 15. Freddie Steward, 14. Harry Potter, 13. Matias Moroni, 12. Dan Kelly, 11. Kini Murimurivalu, 10. George Ford, 9. Ben Youngs; 1. Ellis Genge, 2. Tom Youngs ©, 3. Dan Cole, 4. Harry Wells, 5. Calum Green, 6. George Martin, 7. Tommy Reffell, 8. Jasper Wiese

Replacements: Charlie Clare, 17. Luan de Bruin, 18. Joe Heyes, 19. Tomas Lavanini, 20. Luke Wallace, 21. Richard Wigglesworth, 22. Johnny McPhillips, 23. Matt Scott

THE OPPOSITION

As current Premiership Rugby champions, Leicester Tigers were a formidable team last season. Having not only won the final, they finished top of the table, seven points clear of fellow finalists Saracens. They won a total of 20 games and lost just 4, while only conceding a total of 52 tries, a league low that season.

Coming into round 10, their current position in the Premiership is perhaps not what their fans would have expected after such a dominant run last season. Currently sitting in seventh place, they are only three points ahead of their historic rivals, Bath Rugby.

The current champions have won half of their games this season, with their last win coming from round 6 on Sunday 16 October against Harlequins, which ended 19-27 in Tigers favour.

Due to this season’s cancelled fixtures against Wasps and Worcester, Tigers’ win against Harlequins has been their last competitive game, having not played since. With almost four weeks without a competitive game, fans will be interested to see how this unexpected break in the Tigers’ calendar will affect them for their game at The Rec.

ONE TO WATCH - DAN COLE

Widely considered as a Leicester Tigers legend, Dan Cole made his Leicester debut against Bath Rugby in 2007, losing at The Rec 20 points to 14.

Since then, Cole has gone on to receive over 250 caps for his side and has built a reputation as one of the best scrummaging prop-forwards in world rugby. His dominance at the scrum helped the Tigers’ prop receive a total of 95 caps for England, spanning almost ten years and making him the sixth most capped men’s international for England.

Alongside this, Cole has three British and Irish Lions caps, all coming from the 2013 tour to Australia where he featured in all three Tests.

Not a name that typically dominates the stats charts, Dan Cole’s contributions are often found in the set piece and defence. Having played in six games so far this season, he has an impressive tackle success rate of 96% making 46 tackles and missing only two.

MEET LOUIE HENNESSEY

Club: Llanishen RFC

Position: Centre

What have been your favourite moments in the Bath Rugby pathway?

Since joining Bath Rugby, my favourite moments would be the pre-season trip to Jersey. When I made my debut for the club against Gloucester in the Premiership Cup is up there as well.

What are your dream goals in rugby?

My goals would be to simply reach the highest level possible. I would firstly like to break into the first team at Bath Rugby. Representing my country would also be a goal of mine. I want to be successful for club and country.

What do you get up to outside of rugby?

Outside of rugby, I have University commitments so that takes up most of my time. Other than that, I love to go on holidays with friends and family. I like to travel, visit new places and experience different cultures. I’m also trying to take up golf.

Who has had the biggest impact on your development?

I’d have to say that all of my coaches have played a part in getting me to where I am today. I think my close family members who have been involved in rugby the majority of their life have also boosted my development as they are sometimes my harshest critic and keep me grounded.

What do you want people to say about you at the end of your career?

Looking back, I’d like people to say that I was a good bloke who was honest, hard working and gave everything to his team. I’d like people to associate me with winning as I’d love to be successful for every squad I was involved in.

BEECHEN CLIFF SECURE A 24-14 WIN

Beechen Cliff returned to action on Wednesday with a hard earned 24-14 win against Bishop Wand School in their latest ACE League match. The RFU ACE League pits the partner state schools or colleges of all the Premiership clubs against each other in a National League of exceptional quality. Bishop Wand School are affiliated to London Irish

Having had a couple of weeks of well-earned weeks of recovery and recuperation after Stage 1 of the competition, this game kicked off Stage 2 with the league now re-drawn with the leading teams, including Beechen Cliff, going into the top tier, to challenge towards getting to the ACE Final in December.

In a game hosted at Oldfield RFC, in near perfect conditions, Beechen started strongly with an extended period of pressure on the Bishop Wand try line. However, resolute defence from the visitors meant that Beechen had to be content with just a Raff Weston penalty as reward for their efforts.

Having failed to go through them, Beechen switched tactics and played with more width in an attempt to go around them. From one such attack Beechen were awarded a penalty try after the Bishop’s full-back deliberately knocked the ball forward to prevent a certain try. Not long after, centre and skipper James Short scored a second after another expansive attack. Beechen went into the break with a 17-0 lead.

In the second half Bishop Wand dominated possession, and only continuous robust Beechen defence and smart lineout work from lock James Boyle thwarted the away team. Eventually they broke through, scoring two good tries from close range.

The final quarter of the game was a tense affair as both teams threw everything at securing the win. It was Beechen Cliff who prevailed, with Connor Treacey’s late try proving to be critical. The final whistle saw a mixture of exhaustion and jubilation from the Beechen team.

Next week the team play Stourport High School, who were affiliated to Worcester Warriors. Stourport continue to challenge strongly in the ACE League despite the loss of their mother organisation.

BARBARIANS DRAFT: DAVE ATTWOOD & TOM DUNN

Dave Attwood and Tom Dunn go head-to-head to see who can pick the best Barbarians XV!

LATEST FROM BATH RUGBY FOUNDATION

The Bath community is a close-knit one. From sporting occasions to food festivals to school fayres, Bathonians come out in their droves to support their fellow community members.

Remembrance Day is no different.

Every season on the week of Armistice Day, Bath Rugby pays its respects to the Armed Forces with a dedicated matchday.

To mark the occasion this year, Bath Rugby Foundation has again teamed up with the Royal British Legion to raise funds for two brilliant charities that are close to the heart of those in Bath.

Lynne Fernquest, Chief Executive of Bath Rugby Foundation said: “Bath Rugby Foundation is proud to be observing Armistice Day alongside the Royal British Legion and raising funds for both charities.”

“The Foundation is a children and young people’s charity, and it will always be grateful for the sacrifices made by Armed Forces personnel. Rugby supporters always dig deep, and we know this will be another occasion where fans come together to support a common cause.”

At the game, volunteers from both charities will be selling raffle tickets and giving you the chance to win SIGNED Bath Rugby stash and an invitation to the President’s Lounge for a full hospitality experience.

Paul Bunce from the Royal British Legion said” “The Royal British Legion are very grateful for the support of Bath Rugby and Bath Rugby Foundation this year, both during the Appeal and by the club’s observance of Armistice Day, as we all remember and honour the sacrifices made in conflict to secure and protect our freedom.

“The Royal British Legion, which provides lifelong support to the Armed Forces community, will once again this year look to local organisations like Bath Rugby to support the Poppy Appeal in a year which could well prove challenging for many of our beneficiaries. Bath Rugby fans have been very supportive in the past, and we are sure this year will be no different.”

You can purchase Remembrance poppies ahead of the game in the Bath Rugby shop, or purchase your limited edition Bath Rugby x Remembrance pin badges here.

To purchase raffle tickets, just find one of our volunteers around the fan village. Tickets are £2 each or 3 for £5, with all proceeds being split between the Foundation and the Royal British Legion.

BRSC is proud, and thankful to Bath Rugby, to be included in the Wreath laying ceremony before tonight’s match – “Lest we forget”.

Friday night under the lights, the start of the weekend. A ‘Derby’ of some sorts with our erstwhile rivals from the East Midlands. An increasingly confident home side versus the reigning Champions. The return to The Rec., of heroes wearing different colours for the first time. What’s not to love?

At the time of writing, we don’t know how our bruising win at the Falcons has impacted our somewhat impressive injury list. What we do know is that there’s every reason to believe that the average Bath supporter’s mindset is slowly but surely moving from default pessimism to growing optimism.

Given the increased confidence, organisation and spirit we’ve seen for most of the season, many of us “kept the faith” that results would come, and we have been duly rewarded.

Last week’s result in the Northeast, whilst no classic by any measure, was notable for the sheer tenacity and ‘dog’ the team showed. Credit to JVG and the team, we can really see what this team is about and where we are heading. Maybe tonight we can draw inspiration from our opponents that showed how you can go from bottom to top in a remarkably short time?

On an associated point, for Bath fans of a certain vintage that miss the memories of the glory days where you could depend on Bath sitting at the top of the tree, its great seeing the Girls showing us all how it’s done! Well played Bath Rugby Ladies making it 4 from 4 with a 33-0 win against Old Albanians at The Rec. We applaud the clubs’ efforts with the double header and certainly hope to see more of them in the future.

BRSC, the Official supporters’ club, is proud to support Bath Rugby Ladies and is looking forward to building strong relationships as the exciting development of the Women’s game at Bath continues to move forward.

Finally, turning our attention back to this evening’s game, regardless of who walks away happy, it’s an opportunity to show our appreciation to Anthony Watson. A world class talent who provided us with memories that will last a lifetime. I am sure he can count on a warm welcome from the B, B & W faithful, whenever he plays at The Rec.