"IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
de Glanville: starter?
By Devonport Lad
June 8 2026
“It's in our hands. We are at home with our people" So said Johann van Graan before Saturday's game against Leicester and it holds just as true for next weekend's semi-final against a very much in-form Exeter side. With the portrait of the late great Roger Spurrell looking down on the Rec at the start of the Tigers game I was tempted to go with "standing on the shoulders of giants" as my opening line. It's taken a very long time for Bath to step out of the shadow of the glory days epitomised by Roger Spurrell. Under JvG the current Bath squad is writing its own place in the history of our great club and I'm sure Roger would say that's exactly how it should be.
It's not always the case these days with the likes of Messrs Radwan and Arundell in their respective teams, but if you ask supporters of either club (especially those of a certain age) to describe the hallmarks of a classic Bath vs Leicester game then most would probably describe a forward - dominated arm wrestle, especially at the Rec in foul weather. The Rec is no longer the mud bath that Roger Spurrell used to play on, but he would certainly have recognised the full-blooded contest that took place on Saturday with two well matched sets of forwards going at it with no quarter given.
It would be easy just to say that Thomas du Toit was the difference and leave it at that. After all, he wrote his own piece of history by being the first prop to score a hat trick in the Prem. People have asked how we replace him. The simple answer is that we can't; it's an over-used phrase but he is genuinely a generational talent and it's a huge privilege to watch him in the BB&W, hopefully for two more games! But he would be the first to say that he benefited from an immense shift from his fellow "piano shifters" against a Tigers pack that many feel is the best in the Prem. And the backs played their part. Tom de Glanville demonstrated yet again why he is a worthy winner of the "hard to beat" award and Joe Cokanasiga was again immense. It wasn't a day for Max Ojomoh's creative ability but whilst most candidates for tackle of the season have got the name S Underhill written against them, he contributed one of his own yesterday, having started his run to make it from a different postcode!
Meanwhile, in better weather down at Sandy Park, Exeter did exactly what Exeter do, if you let them! Take nothing away from them, they played a high tempo game which Sarries couldn't match on the day. Henry Slade was a driving influence with Ridl and Brown-Bampoe always looking dangerous. Zambonin is a thundering nuisance at lineouts and will look to exploit any wayward throws from our hookers. But Sarries were in some ways the architects of their own downfall. They lacked essential accuracy at times and failed to finish off the opportunities that they created, especially in the first half. One lesson there for us and another regarding discipline. Exeter's try in the 43rd minute came after Charlie Bracken's yellow card and their third try came after the TMO spotted a tackle off the ball which reversed a penalty originally awarded to Saracens and Exeter scored a few phases later. Their last try was simply opportunistic, and Saracens were out on their feet by then.
So, how do we approach next week? It's easy to say that we'll have to play better but that's not the whole story; we'll also have to play differently. I think we will. With Dave Walder's influence Exeter have picked up momentum through the season and are playing consistently well but mindset will be critical. If we go into this game simply thinking about how to counter their threats then we will fall short. Their supporters will point to having beaten us recently in the Prem, but that doesn't count for much in a knockout game. We're the defending Champions and we've got arguably the deepest squad in the Prem. It's on our patch so I would expect JvG to take the view that it's Exeter who should be worrying about how to stop us imposing our game on them and that will be how we approach training at Farleigh this week.
That of course leads onto speculation as to who will play. Charlieboa has already started a squad selection thread which I won't duplicate but there are some interesting conundrums that JvG will need to address. If Finn is fully fit then surely he plays, but I would argue that TdG should retain the 15 shirt and that Santi goes to the bench. Tom Dunn will be available again, but does he start or do we retain the highly mobile Kepu and bring Dunny on as part of a high-power bench? If Quinn Roux is available does he come straight back in and if so, what do we do with Ted Hill? The back row selection is also interesting. In my view Josh Bayliss is almost un-droppable at the moment, and we'll need his pace and agility. But what about Sam Underhill and Guy Pepper if he's fit? We're going to need tackling power and breakdown expertise in this game. And that brings me to number 8. I realise that what I'm about to suggest will be regarded as close to heresy in some quarters, but I think there's a case for starting Miles Reid and bringing Alfie off the bench. I just think we're going to need Miles's work rate for a large portion of this game.
I'm optimistic for this game. I think that we've worked through the UBB defeat and the subsequent performance blip and are building again. It will be a different game but as the Leicester game showed, we have the talent, desire and adaptability to get it right when it matters. Exeter have a particularly vocal bunch of supporters but it's our Rec. JvG said: "What a great place to be with our Blue Black and White". With our support the boys have got every chance of getting to Twickenham again. They need to hear us for 80 minutes. We won't let them down.
COYB
"IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Comeonmylovers.co.uk (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 07:21
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Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:19:17:07:26 by P G Tips.
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Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 08:19
Great Report Devonport.....I was ready to go and play myself having read that!!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Widcombe boy (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 08:26
Fantastic write up Devonport Lad. Really got the hairs on the back of my neck my standing up. Totally agree with your selection points.
Will JVG stick with Ollie Lawrence ?
Widcombe Garçon
Will JVG stick with Ollie Lawrence ?
Widcombe Garçon
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 08:32
So the gentleman who sits next to me at the Rec and who has close contacts with Exeter told me that the previous week when Exeter played away at Leicester the ball was only in play for 16 minutes in the second half as they deliberately slowed the game down and wasted time, just legally, to squeeze the life out of Leicester.
Very canny by Baxter who has done a fantastic job over the past 18 months.
Very canny by Baxter who has done a fantastic job over the past 18 months.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 08:41
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
So the gentleman who sits next to me at the Rec and who has close contacts with Exeter told me that the previous week when Exeter played away at Leicester the ball was only in play for 16 minutes in the second half as they deliberately slowed the game down and wasted time, just legally, to squeeze the life out of Leicester.
Very canny by Baxter who has done a fantastic job over the past 18 months.
I'm not sure what tactics they used but I'm not calling that canny, it really shouldn't have been allowed, for me it is borderline cheating
Slow their ball down, fine. Find occasional opportunities for a 15 sec breather to get to a lineout, fine. But slowing the game down to that level, nope and really would be unhappy if we'd done it
We go bonkers at refs that don't keep the game flowing - how can they when one team's strategy is to squeeze the life out of it
Having said that, when the game was running, Exeter did look very, very good
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 08:57
My main concern against Chiefs is their lineout they have two second rows who are absolute masters in that area and it can be our Achilles heel. Slade and his boot is always a factor but no IFW on the wing as good as PBB is, is a huge loss for them.
Weather looking dry and hot - yes dry and hot at the moment but still this is the UK and we have 5 long days to wait.
Come on BATH.
On another note I seriously can see Tigers beating Saints - it is probably the one team Saints did not want to face.
Weather looking dry and hot - yes dry and hot at the moment but still this is the UK and we have 5 long days to wait.
Come on BATH.
On another note I seriously can see Tigers beating Saints - it is probably the one team Saints did not want to face.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:04
I don't think that this is unusual in terms of ball in play. I couldn't find anything for 2026 season but in 2023 the average across a game a 38 mins
[www.rugbypass.com].
and the 6N figures were here:
[www.world.rugby]
BALL IN PLAY
Average: 37m38s (47%)
Min: 33m 47s (42%)
Max: 45m 30s (57%)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[www.rugbypass.com].
and the 6N figures were here:
[www.world.rugby]
BALL IN PLAY
Average: 37m38s (47%)
Min: 33m 47s (42%)
Max: 45m 30s (57%)
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:04
Quote:Ali1969
My main concern against Chiefs is their lineout they have two second rows who are absolute masters in that area and it can be our Achilles heel.
100% Ali.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:19
Quote:Widcombe boy
Fantastic write up Devonport Lad. Really got the hairs on the back of my neck my standing up. Totally agree with your selection points.
Will JVG stick with Ollie Lawrence ?
My guess is that he will. He's not been 'bad' as such more quiet and short of confidence / form / sharpness and JvG is generally very slow to change these things. Even though we won with Max shifting out to 13 last season I think he'll see that as a fairly significant change to make at this stage.
Understand starting isn't everything but interested to see the pack make up this week. I would struggle to bench any of Hill, Underhill and Bayliss right now so personally I'd be pencilling those names in to the line up and going from there whether that's the back row or Hill stays alongside Ewels.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:34
I agree with Ali too
Zambonin, Jenkins and Tshiunza are all taller than our jumpers and great leapers. I know our game is box-kick heavy, but wonder if we should copy a Wales tactic of the Gatland years? When facing a strong lineout, keep the ball on the field to negate that strength- which does not mean no kicking, but primarily for reclaim of possession or deep territory to force errors.
Agree about Slade too, which may suit Ollie L. Sure, he has not been making the flashing breaks but has put in some v good tackles.
It will be tight and tense, but we have the game and the personnel to win.
PG
Zambonin, Jenkins and Tshiunza are all taller than our jumpers and great leapers. I know our game is box-kick heavy, but wonder if we should copy a Wales tactic of the Gatland years? When facing a strong lineout, keep the ball on the field to negate that strength- which does not mean no kicking, but primarily for reclaim of possession or deep territory to force errors.
Agree about Slade too, which may suit Ollie L. Sure, he has not been making the flashing breaks but has put in some v good tackles.
It will be tight and tense, but we have the game and the personnel to win.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:39
I’d be amazed if Cam doesn’t start - just from a rotation/opportunity point of view he is due a start.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:53
Quote:P G Tips
I agree with Ali too
Zambonin, Jenkins and Tshiunza are all taller than our jumpers and great leapers. I know our game is box-kick heavy, but wonder if we should copy a Wales tactic of the Gatland years? When facing a strong lineout, keep the ball on the field to negate that strength- which does not mean no kicking, but primarily for reclaim of possession or deep territory to force errors.
PG
Makes a lot of sense. Not that Exeter have no threat from their back three but the risk of playing like this is diminished a lot without IFW's ability to punish anything loose. None of Ridl, PBB or Woodburn are dominant in the air so would back our guys to come out in top with Spencer's kicking ability.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 09:58
Quote:theredseat
None of Ridl, PBB or Woodburn are dominant in the air
I actually think that they are pretty good - Ridl's timing issue on Arundel notwithstanding he does have about 5 inches in height on Henry who has also been known to have catching issues.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 10:11
Gone early with the preview and I'm here for it, thanks DL! Didn't know that hat-trick stat, which just goes to make TdT seem even more remarkable.
When you think of genuine world-class players to have worn the BB&W - even with our illustrious history - I do think he's top of the pile. And it does make me feel proud that JvG et al have played a big part in developing him into the player that will depart in a few weeks time. Generational seems apt.
Anyway, feels like - with Roux, Dunny, Finn and Pepper expected to return - we're back to the 'good' selection headaches of last season for the SF. As stated, idk how you can drop Bayliss, nor Hill or Deeg so some international talent will have to make way.
TdT starts. Absolutely no question about it, but Dunny, Roux, Santi, Pepper off the bench with TCS, Barbs, Sela and FvW is some impact. I too don't think he'll drop Ollie at this stage, so not sure Redpath even makes the 23!
When you think of genuine world-class players to have worn the BB&W - even with our illustrious history - I do think he's top of the pile. And it does make me feel proud that JvG et al have played a big part in developing him into the player that will depart in a few weeks time. Generational seems apt.
Anyway, feels like - with Roux, Dunny, Finn and Pepper expected to return - we're back to the 'good' selection headaches of last season for the SF. As stated, idk how you can drop Bayliss, nor Hill or Deeg so some international talent will have to make way.
TdT starts. Absolutely no question about it, but Dunny, Roux, Santi, Pepper off the bench with TCS, Barbs, Sela and FvW is some impact. I too don't think he'll drop Ollie at this stage, so not sure Redpath even makes the 23!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 10:39
Quote:Barfboy
When you think of genuine world-class players to have worn the BB&W - even with our illustrious history - I do think he's top of the pile.
It's certainly between him and Francois Louw in recent times for me.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 10:54
Gaz I did write legal!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Devonport Lad (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 11:53
Quote:Can’t argue with that. We’ll miss him and also Francois van Wyk (what an astute piece of business signing him was!) but probably not as much as our local traditional butcher who is likely to see his beef sales for the manufacturing of home made biltong drop off a cliff as they both depart!BathMatt53Quote:Barfboy
When you think of genuine world-class players to have worn the BB&W - even with our illustrious history - I do think he's top of the pile.
It's certainly between him and Francois Louw in recent times for me.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 12:13
Such a good preview Devonport! It's only Monday and I am already frothing at the mouth for the semi final. I think this match will actually be a similar affair to last year's semi. I have a feeling that Exeter will come out the blocks and hit us with a couple of early tries and we will then settle down and impose our game on them.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 12:24
So how about inking in the players we can* agree with........*maybe can!
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokansinga
13
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8
7
6
5 Charlie Ewells
4
3 Thomas du Toit
2
1 Beno Obano
16
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19
20
21
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
So this highlights that the following positions are in doubt....mostly because we have players in depth.
13 Ollie Lawrence or Cam Redpath
2 and 16 Tom Dunn, Kepueli Tuipulotu, Dan Frost
4, 19 and 20 Quin Roux, Ted Hill, Ross Moloney or Ewan Richards
6, 7, 8, 21 Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Miles Reid, Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, Alfie Barbeary and Ewan Richards
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokansinga
13
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8
7
6
5 Charlie Ewells
4
3 Thomas du Toit
2
1 Beno Obano
16
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19
20
21
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
So this highlights that the following positions are in doubt....mostly because we have players in depth.
13 Ollie Lawrence or Cam Redpath
2 and 16 Tom Dunn, Kepueli Tuipulotu, Dan Frost
4, 19 and 20 Quin Roux, Ted Hill, Ross Moloney or Ewan Richards
6, 7, 8, 21 Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Miles Reid, Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, Alfie Barbeary and Ewan Richards
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 13:56
I’m not sure I see as much daylight between Max and Cam as others, especially if we assume Finn is back. And maybe Ollie still edges the debate because sticking one of Cam or Max at 13 does mean they are slightly out of position.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 14:03
Quote:Optimist
I’m not sure I see as much daylight between Max and Cam as others, especially if we assume Finn is back. And maybe Ollie still edges the debate because sticking one of Cam or Max at 13 does mean they are slightly out of position.
Agreed - form aside I think that Max and Cam operate best at 12 and Ollie works best at 13.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 14:05
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Optimist
I’m not sure I see as much daylight between Max and Cam as others, especially if we assume Finn is back. And maybe Ollie still edges the debate because sticking one of Cam or Max at 13 does mean they are slightly out of position.
Agreed - form aside I think that Max and Cam operate best at 12 and Ollie works best at 13.
Is Will Butt ruled out then now as he is off?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 14:19
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Optimist
I’m not sure I see as much daylight between Max and Cam as others, especially if we assume Finn is back. And maybe Ollie still edges the debate because sticking one of Cam or Max at 13 does mean they are slightly out of position.
Agreed - form aside I think that Max and Cam operate best at 12 and Ollie works best at 13.
Is Will Butt ruled out then now as he is off?
Yeah I think he's been cast aside unfortunately over the last few months. Not necessarily because he is leaving, but mostly because Hennessey has played outstandingly well when he has been given the opportunity and the return to fitness of OL.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 14:38
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:BathMatt53Quote:Optimist
I’m not sure I see as much daylight between Max and Cam as others, especially if we assume Finn is back. And maybe Ollie still edges the debate because sticking one of Cam or Max at 13 does mean they are slightly out of position.
Agreed - form aside I think that Max and Cam operate best at 12 and Ollie works best at 13.
Is Will Butt ruled out then now as he is off?
The last time he played was vs Exeter when he was outplayed by Len Ikitau. Wouldn't fancy repeating that in a semi.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 15:50
I would be tempted to play Cam at 12 and Ollie at 13.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 15:51
First Amendment[/i]
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokansinga
13 Ollie Lawrence[i]
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8
7
6
5 Charlie Ewells
4
3 Thomas du Toit
2
1 Beno Obano
16
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19
20
21 Cam Redpath[i][/i]
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
2 and 16 Tom Dunn, Kepueli Tuipulotu, Dan Frost
4, 19 and 20 Quin Roux, Ted Hill, Ross Moloney or Ewan Richards
6, 7, 8, 21 Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Miles Reid, Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, Alfie Barbeary and Ewan Richards
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokansinga
13 Ollie Lawrence[i]
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8
7
6
5 Charlie Ewells
4
3 Thomas du Toit
2
1 Beno Obano
16
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19
20
21 Cam Redpath[i][/i]
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
2 and 16 Tom Dunn, Kepueli Tuipulotu, Dan Frost
4, 19 and 20 Quin Roux, Ted Hill, Ross Moloney or Ewan Richards
6, 7, 8, 21 Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Miles Reid, Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, Alfie Barbeary and Ewan Richards
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 16:51
Discipline is absolutely critical against Exeter, give away 12+ penalties and we’ll almost certainly lose as Slade will just punish us.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 17:12
Just as we did against Leicester....
Give away a needless penalty on the halfway line.
Slade booms them to a lineout 5 yards from our line.
Zambonin wins the line out and they drive for the line....very hard to defend against
Give away a needless penalty on the halfway line.
Slade booms them to a lineout 5 yards from our line.
Zambonin wins the line out and they drive for the line....very hard to defend against
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 17:18
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
First Amendment[/i]
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokansinga
13 Ollie Lawrence[i]
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8
7
6
5 Charlie Ewells
4
3 Thomas du Toit
2
1 Beno Obano
16
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19
20
21 Cam Redpath[i][/i]
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
2 and 16 Tom Dunn, Kepueli Tuipulotu, Dan Frost
4, 19 and 20 Quin Roux, Ted Hill, Ross Moloney or Ewan Richards
6, 7, 8, 21 Josh Bayliss, Guy Pepper, Miles Reid, Ted Hill, Sam Underhill, Alfie Barbeary and Ewan Richards
Just not sure we can go 5-3 against Chiefs. They have a big gnarly pack like Leicester - so I think the extra forward on the bench will come in really handy. Someone like a Josh Bayliss on the bench, in the form he is in and can cover both back row and wing if needed
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rokobilly (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 19:47
Excellent preview DL.... Slsde is a real worry for me. He is a top class operator at this level but as BSJ and ON have said it os ability to find touch 5m out that is so, so dangerous. It turns a mistimed blitz or slightly lazy roll away on halfway into a golden opportunity for Exe. We need to read the ref quickly and stay clean.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 08/06/2026 22:36
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Gaz I did write legal!
Fair enough. If true and only 16 mins ball in play time then that's also bad reffing and dwindling spectators
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 06:44
Heard this morning that Mr Russell is very doubtful for Saturday.
Revert to Santi at 10 and go to a 6 - 2 bench.....or bring Ciaren Donoghue in onto the bench.
Very tricky!
Revert to Santi at 10 and go to a 6 - 2 bench.....or bring Ciaren Donoghue in onto the bench.
Very tricky!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Devonport Lad (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 06:59
BSJ, I heard exactly the opposite yesterday! I guess we’ll need to wait for the team announcement to find out for sure. But if you’re right then for me Santi stays at 10 and we go 6 - 2 on the bench.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:07:34:04 by Devonport Lad.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:07:34:04 by Devonport Lad.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 07:49
I hope my "source" is wrong and your's is right!!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: nigewing (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:15
Mind games to keep Baxter guessing 🤣
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Devonport Lad (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:16
And the officials are;
Saturday:
🕒 15:00 – Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
👨⚖️ Referee: Christophe Ridley
📍 AR1: Karl Dickson
📍 AR2: Sara Cox MBE
🎥 TMO: Andrew Jackson
Saturday:
🕒 15:00 – Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
👨⚖️ Referee: Christophe Ridley
📍 AR1: Karl Dickson
📍 AR2: Sara Cox MBE
🎥 TMO: Andrew Jackson
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:17
Saturday:
🕒 15:00 – Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
👨⚖️ Referee: Christophe Ridley
📍 AR1: Karl Dickson
📍 AR2: Sara Cox MBE
🎥 TMO: Andrew Jackson
Luke Pearce in charge at the Gardens - glad he's not at the Rec as I don't think his style particulalry suits us.
🕒 15:00 – Bath Rugby v Exeter Chiefs
👨⚖️ Referee: Christophe Ridley
📍 AR1: Karl Dickson
📍 AR2: Sara Cox MBE
🎥 TMO: Andrew Jackson
Luke Pearce in charge at the Gardens - glad he's not at the Rec as I don't think his style particulalry suits us.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:33
Always quite like Christophe, hope he feels the same about us!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:39
I fear any match with Ridley on the whistle. He is very generous with ruck interpretations -to the point (IMO) of endangering players (last year's semi a case in point).
Rob Baxter's view of the breakdown as 'the wild west' could be borne out.
PG
Rob Baxter's view of the breakdown as 'the wild west' could be borne out.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:50
Quote:P G Tips
I fear any match with Ridley on the whistle. He is very generous with ruck interpretations -to the point (IMO) of endangering players (last year's semi a case in point).
Rob Baxter's view of the breakdown as 'the wild west' could be borne out.
PG
I think our jackallers are better than Chiefs' so, if true, I think its a small advantage to us.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 09:53
Good refereeing team, happy with that.
Ridley former Leicester Tigers acad so guess he can't be involved with the other game anyway - I didn't actually realise that he was an England u18s scrum half until I just looked it up.
He has also spoken out about referee abuse and how it affects him, so hopefully whatever the views before and after the match they can be respectful (not that a ref should have to speak out for this to be the case obviously). In summary, he isn't blind, he isn't biased and he does know the Laws.
Very much looking forward to it.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Ridley former Leicester Tigers acad so guess he can't be involved with the other game anyway - I didn't actually realise that he was an England u18s scrum half until I just looked it up.
He has also spoken out about referee abuse and how it affects him, so hopefully whatever the views before and after the match they can be respectful (not that a ref should have to speak out for this to be the case obviously). In summary, he isn't blind, he isn't biased and he does know the Laws.
Very much looking forward to it.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 10:07
I really like Ridley (Beno incident aside!). Think he refs a pretty good game and I thought he reffed the SF last year very well, especially the second half!
Finn or no Finn, TDG has to start at 15. The way the Exeter wingers chase and then randomly (dangerously) jump and attack high balls means we need our bravest 15 on the pitch. Hope Ridley really refs that part of the game astutely.
I just think that as obvious as it is, Finn's fitness will dictate our odds. With Finn at 10 on a sunny day, I'd have us clear favourites. Without him, Spencer takes us into our shells (understandably, to a point) and we kick and play territory so much more. I'd just love Finn to play alongside Max, and for us to go out and blow Exeter away up front and also get Arundell and JCok on the ball as much as possible. It feels like we're due a big performance, a proper 80 minute shift, backs and forwards, confidence returning in front of a full house. Would be a great time to deliver it!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Finn or no Finn, TDG has to start at 15. The way the Exeter wingers chase and then randomly (dangerously) jump and attack high balls means we need our bravest 15 on the pitch. Hope Ridley really refs that part of the game astutely.
I just think that as obvious as it is, Finn's fitness will dictate our odds. With Finn at 10 on a sunny day, I'd have us clear favourites. Without him, Spencer takes us into our shells (understandably, to a point) and we kick and play territory so much more. I'd just love Finn to play alongside Max, and for us to go out and blow Exeter away up front and also get Arundell and JCok on the ball as much as possible. It feels like we're due a big performance, a proper 80 minute shift, backs and forwards, confidence returning in front of a full house. Would be a great time to deliver it!
2024/25 adoptee: Guy Pepper
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: bathwickboy (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 14:16
Tom Dunn starts for me every time with Tuipolotu on the bench. I am sure that Dunn is raring to go after his enforced layoff and he just seems to bring that extra bit of grit and of course bags of experience at this level. Having said that, I would be perfectly happy with Tuipolotu and Frost as my starting hookers. We are very lucky to have 3 very good players in that position.
Not sure that I would start with Pepper. I was not impressed with his swallow dive while scoring a try but more importantly, he seems to be giving away a lot of needless penalties. Perhaps he needed a rest and a general rethink because he is an excellent player when he is on his game. Is he raring to go?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:14:21:37 by bathwickboy.
Not sure that I would start with Pepper. I was not impressed with his swallow dive while scoring a try but more importantly, he seems to be giving away a lot of needless penalties. Perhaps he needed a rest and a general rethink because he is an excellent player when he is on his game. Is he raring to go?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:14:21:37 by bathwickboy.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 16:01
Just announced on Devon Live - Exeter Chiefs injury update that both Feyi-Waboso and Ethan Roots won't be playing for Exeter this weekend.
Huge news as the former is the x factor game breaker and the latter is the enforcer of that forward pack. Having said that - neither played at Sandy park and they beat us.
There will be no Ross Vintcent this time but they are expecting Fisilau to be fit.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:16:03:31 by Marjo20.
Huge news as the former is the x factor game breaker and the latter is the enforcer of that forward pack. Having said that - neither played at Sandy park and they beat us.
There will be no Ross Vintcent this time but they are expecting Fisilau to be fit.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:09:16:03:31 by Marjo20.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 16:10
Finn in the frame to play - [www.somersetlive.co.uk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 16:27
Good news if so, but I note "tight lipped about Pepper". Hope he is available, could be just his sort of game.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 16:47
Interesting that he updated us about Finn Russell but was tight lipped about the availability of Pepper. Is this mind games? We all know that this will be a match won upfront so it seems like he is keeping his lips sealed regarding forward pack. Could we see a 7-1 this weekend???
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Debenair (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 19:03
A very good preview. It’s yours to lose I think. The great depth of quality you have available in most positions must make you hot favourites (that and home advantage) but we Chiefs supporters can dream.
Although to be frank I would have given my eye teeth at the seasons start to be in a play off semi.
Enormous feats are going to be needed from our Italian and Aussie stars- and King Henry of course- if we are to upset the apple cart. Back to that dream………….
Although to be frank I would have given my eye teeth at the seasons start to be in a play off semi.
Enormous feats are going to be needed from our Italian and Aussie stars- and King Henry of course- if we are to upset the apple cart. Back to that dream………….
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 19:43
Nice post Debenair. Wish you all the best- and absolutely not writing you guys off as your Aussies, Italians, and Henrys are match winners.
Amazing to think that this is our 3rd home SF in 3 years. An amazing achievement by Bruce, JvG, Spencer and all involved. From where we were, you’d have been mad to even hope for this level of consistent success. Saturday will be another wonderful occasion, versus great rivals, and Finn (hopefully) fit improves our chances, but whatever the result, what a remarkable few years it has been.
Amazing to think that this is our 3rd home SF in 3 years. An amazing achievement by Bruce, JvG, Spencer and all involved. From where we were, you’d have been mad to even hope for this level of consistent success. Saturday will be another wonderful occasion, versus great rivals, and Finn (hopefully) fit improves our chances, but whatever the result, what a remarkable few years it has been.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Debenair (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 21:39
Interesting re Carreras. He is without doubt, based on his international form and form at other clubs, a class act. Perhaps he needs to be playing more regularly, and this is a rare example of JvG getting his selections wrong?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 22:04
Quote:Debenair
Interesting re Carreras. He is without doubt, based on his international form and form at other clubs, a class act. Perhaps he needs to be playing more regularly, and this is a rare example of JvG getting his selections wrong?
Personally I think that he joined, was away with Argentina over the summer and then back late, then off again for AIs so he isn't entirely on his team mates wavelength yet. I'm sure he will come good next season as will OL after a good preseason.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 09/06/2026 22:59
Santi is a different kind of 10 to Finn (obvs) - much more of a break making 10 than a creative passing 10. He'll need different strengths from his wings and centres. Personally I'd want JC4 and Henry on his inside shoulder when he attacks the line. But Santis superpower is his footwork in close contact situations - it allows him to avoid direct tackles and keep his arms free for offloads to his support runners.
Well need a preseason to get the best from him and the team.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Well need a preseason to get the best from him and the team.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 11:18
Agree with Joe, he's a totally different 10 and - to a lesser extent - a different 15 to Deeg too.
Wonder if, when Santi signed, both he and the Club were not expecting Finn to renew? His arrival was announced in Feb '25 and Finn's renewal in June.
Also, I don't think I've seen Santi state his preferred position on record? Presumably it is 10, but obviously he's versatile - is he happy being that?
Wonder if, when Santi signed, both he and the Club were not expecting Finn to renew? His arrival was announced in Feb '25 and Finn's renewal in June.
Also, I don't think I've seen Santi state his preferred position on record? Presumably it is 10, but obviously he's versatile - is he happy being that?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigerburnie (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 11:59
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:13
Quote:Barfboy
Also, I don't think I've seen Santi state his preferred position on record? Presumably it is 10, but obviously he's versatile - is he happy being that?
I think that he has previously said 10 or 15 preferred, can play wing but not as keen. So hasn't specified between the 2 he prefers.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:39
Quote:joethefanatic
Santi is a different kind of 10 to Finn (obvs) - much more of a break making 10 than a creative passing 10. He'll need different strengths from his wings and centres. Personally I'd want JC4 and Henry on his inside shoulder when he attacks the line. But Santis superpower is his footwork in close contact situations
I think Opti is closer the mark on this when he says that for whatever reason Santi has seemed far less inclined to run it back from deep even with broken field ahead
And I don't think his superpower is the footwork in close contact and certainly not to the level of B-B.
I see his strength is in his ability to spot or find the gap or mismatch from some metres out and attack it with speed and elusive angle from some metres away
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 12:48
Quote:Thanks Tigerburnie! We will certainly need a little element of luck against this resurgent Chiefs team! All the best to you friday night and hoping to meet Tigers at HQtigerburnie
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 14:39
Latest update.....with sort of consensus selections.....2 days before team goes up.
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokanasinga
13 Ollie Lawrence
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8 Miles Reid
7 Sam Underhill
6 Ted Hill
5 Charlie Ewells
4 Quin Roux
3 Thomas du Toit
2 Tom Dunn
1 Beno Obano
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19 Josh Bayliss
20 Guy Pepper
21 Alfie Barbeary
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
Picking Dunn and Roux because they have had an enforced rest
Not picked BVDL, even if he was available as he has been out for a few weeks.
6 - 2 bench
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokanasinga
13 Ollie Lawrence
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8 Miles Reid
7 Sam Underhill
6 Ted Hill
5 Charlie Ewells
4 Quin Roux
3 Thomas du Toit
2 Tom Dunn
1 Beno Obano
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19 Josh Bayliss
20 Guy Pepper
21 Alfie Barbeary
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
Picking Dunn and Roux because they have had an enforced rest
Not picked BVDL, even if he was available as he has been out for a few weeks.
6 - 2 bench
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: jayeatman (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 15:08
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
Latest update.....with sort of consensus selections.....2 days before team goes up.
15 Tom De Glanville
14 Joe Cokanasinga
13 Ollie Lawrence
12 Max Ojomoh
11 Henry Arundell
10 Finn Russell
9 Ben Spencer
8 Miles Reid
7 Sam Underhill
6 Ted Hill
5 Charlie Ewells
4 Quin Roux
3 Thomas du Toit
2 Tom Dunn
1 Beno Obano
16 Kepueli Tuipulotu
17 Francois Van Wyk
18 Vilikesa Sela
19 Josh Bayliss
20 Guy Pepper
21 Alfie Barbeary
22 Santi Carreras
23 Tom Carr Smith
Picking Dunn and Roux because they have had an enforced rest
Not picked BVDL, even if he was available as he has been out for a few weeks.
6 - 2 bench
100% agree with the 23. The only difference is I'd have Bayliss starting and Hill on the bench. Suspect we won't see Pepper though, in which case I'd probably go with Molony.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 15:28
That'd be my team, BSJ. With Roux back, and Hill at 6, the pack just looks much heavier and meaner.
I must say, I'd be tempted to put TDT on the bench, for 45 minutes at least. Just feel that with Roux, the scrum should be more solid, and so we'd have less need for TDT from the off and his impact in the final 30 mins would be even greater. He's super human, I know, but I'd want him to start the final (if we get there), so asking him to run 3 x 75-80 minutes in 3 weeks feels like it might break even him. But then again maybe we don't make the final without him starting! #InJVGWeTrust
I must say, I'd be tempted to put TDT on the bench, for 45 minutes at least. Just feel that with Roux, the scrum should be more solid, and so we'd have less need for TDT from the off and his impact in the final 30 mins would be even greater. He's super human, I know, but I'd want him to start the final (if we get there), so asking him to run 3 x 75-80 minutes in 3 weeks feels like it might break even him. But then again maybe we don't make the final without him starting! #InJVGWeTrust
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 15:55
With absolutely no stats to back this up, I feel that the scrum dominance in that final 30 minutes becomes a large factor in tight games based on fatigue causing mistakes and the team behind feeling pressured to score, increasing risk/reward e.g. playing out of their own half to keep possession.
With that in mind, I think we play best when TdT comes off the bench.
With that in mind, I think we play best when TdT comes off the bench.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 19:05
Quote:by
With absolutely no stats to back this up, I feel that the scrum dominance in that final 30 minutes becomes a large factor in tight games based on fatigue causing mistakes and the team behind feeling pressured to score, increasing risk/reward e.g. playing out of their own half to keep possession.
With that in mind, I think we play best when TdT comes off the bench.
Problem is that it cuts the time he has to score three tries! 😉
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 19:23
Quote:tigerburnie
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
Seen your club on social media informing tiger fans how to get tickets for the final ... a touch presumptuous eh?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 20:16
Quote:gaz59Quote:joethefanatic
Santi is a different kind of 10 to Finn (obvs) - much more of a break making 10 than a creative passing 10. He'll need different strengths from his wings and centres. Personally I'd want JC4 and Henry on his inside shoulder when he attacks the line. But Santis superpower is his footwork in close contact situations
I think Opti is closer the mark on this when he says that for whatever reason Santi has seemed far less inclined to run it back from deep even with broken field ahead
I think this is almost certainly going to be a JVG system thing
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 10/06/2026 20:41
Quote:gaz59Quote:tigerburnie
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
Seen your club on social media informing tiger fans how to get tickets for the final ... a touch presumptuous eh?
I remember us buying our tickets for 1995-6 Pilkington Cup Final, in January 1996!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 09:20
I wonder whether BVDL might be the dark horse - He is someone that Chiefs will not have faced and potentially someone they would not expect - he offers something different to Tom CS, he is electric and snips as shown against Saints and caused them huge problems for the short time he was on, a real weapon against a tiring defence.
The other dark horse maybe Arthur Green - he performed superbly against Chiefs at the Rec and scored the winning try.
In relation to Hooker - I think Dunny comes straight back and JvG does like to play players against their former club - so maybe Dan Frost will get the 16 shirt - personally I think Dan and Kepu are superb players - Kepu is more powerful but Dan is lighting quick - both have their strengths and weaknesses.
In relation to the Finishers - personally I do not think our bench has had the impact it did when the likes of Thomas DT, Ted Hill etc were coming on at 50 min so maybe revert to the winning formula - no disrespect to Scott Sio who is an amazing International player but I do not believe he is as strong a scrummager as Genge and Nicky Smith - so Billy to Start?
so perhaps:
Tom DG
Joe C
Ollie L
Cam R/Max O
Henry A (Thanks PG)
Finn R
Ben S
Ben O
Tom D
Billy S
Charlie E
Quinn R
Miles R
Alfie B
Sam U
Kepu T/Dan F
Francois VW
Thomas DT
Ted H
Guy P
Santi C
Bernard VDL
Josh B/Arthur G
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:09:17:38 by Ali1969.
The other dark horse maybe Arthur Green - he performed superbly against Chiefs at the Rec and scored the winning try.
In relation to Hooker - I think Dunny comes straight back and JvG does like to play players against their former club - so maybe Dan Frost will get the 16 shirt - personally I think Dan and Kepu are superb players - Kepu is more powerful but Dan is lighting quick - both have their strengths and weaknesses.
In relation to the Finishers - personally I do not think our bench has had the impact it did when the likes of Thomas DT, Ted Hill etc were coming on at 50 min so maybe revert to the winning formula - no disrespect to Scott Sio who is an amazing International player but I do not believe he is as strong a scrummager as Genge and Nicky Smith - so Billy to Start?
so perhaps:
Tom DG
Joe C
Ollie L
Cam R/Max O
Henry A (Thanks PG)
Finn R
Ben S
Ben O
Tom D
Billy S
Charlie E
Quinn R
Miles R
Alfie B
Sam U
Kepu T/Dan F
Francois VW
Thomas DT
Ted H
Guy P
Santi C
Bernard VDL
Josh B/Arthur G
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:09:17:38 by Ali1969.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 10:36
I doubt we will win with only 6 backs starting Ali!
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 10:46
Quote:Ali1969
I wonder whether BVDL might be the dark horse - He is someone that Chiefs will not have faced and potentially someone they would not expect - he offers something different to Tom CS, he is electric and snips as shown against Saints and caused them huge problems for the short time he was on, a real weapon against a tiring defence.
The other dark horse maybe Arthur Green - he performed superbly against Chiefs at the Rec and scored the winning try.
In relation to Hooker - I think Dunny comes straight back and JvG does like to play players against their former club - so maybe Dan Frost will get the 16 shirt - personally I think Dan and Kepu are superb players - Kepu is more powerful but Dan is lighting quick - both have their strengths and weaknesses.
Completely agree with the BvDL. I think his ability to snipe is huge and he has incredible pace too which is a real x factor. I would pick him knowing that Spencer is likely to play 70+ minutes anyway and then maybe the last 10 minutes if we need to throw caution to the wind then bring him on and really scorch the grass.
Regards hooker - I've actually changed my initial stance. I wanted Dunny to come back in...but after some thought I think it would be better if we let Kepu continue starting alongside Beno and TdT as that front three were immense last week against tigers, and I also think that Dunny off the bench will help to stabilise our scrum which started to creak a bit last week when Beno and TdT both went off (as expected). This of course goes hand in hand with picking TdT to start from the off.
Unfortunately I just don't think this is the game that we can throw Arthur Green in for - especially at the expense of our one many outstanding back rowers like Bayliss or Pepper if fit.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: jayeatman (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 10:49
Kepu is on an upward curve. The more you play him the better he gets, so keep playing him.
I agree BvdL & Green are both dark horses, but the problem for me is we've not seen them for a while, so throwing them into such a big game is a risk.
TCS v BvdL is a bit academic because if it's a tight game, Ben stays on anyway.
Green doesn't make it because there are 6 international quality back-rowers ahead of him. We're lucky to be keeping him, given how few opportunities he's had this season.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
I agree BvdL & Green are both dark horses, but the problem for me is we've not seen them for a while, so throwing them into such a big game is a risk.
TCS v BvdL is a bit academic because if it's a tight game, Ben stays on anyway.
Green doesn't make it because there are 6 international quality back-rowers ahead of him. We're lucky to be keeping him, given how few opportunities he's had this season.
BATH supporter since 1975
Adopted players:
2015/6 Tom Homer
2016/7 Matt Banahan
2017/8 Jeff Williams
2018/9 Victor Delmas
2019/20 Semesa Rokoduguni
2020/21 Will Stuart
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 11:40
I think we all know roughly what the 23 is going to be and it's more just a question of who starts/finishes.
Although there's a good argument for both Green and BvDL, I would be amazed if JvG starts tinkering in a SF. He speaks so highly of TCS, who is the well-established back up to our captain. Green...maybe next season but too many in his way for this weekend as is stated above.
And Kepu is in the 23 - not even a question for me. Frost is a good player, but he's on another level.
Although there's a good argument for both Green and BvDL, I would be amazed if JvG starts tinkering in a SF. He speaks so highly of TCS, who is the well-established back up to our captain. Green...maybe next season but too many in his way for this weekend as is stated above.
And Kepu is in the 23 - not even a question for me. Frost is a good player, but he's on another level.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 12:54
Tom C-S has looked very good in recent games
Not such an individual threat around the breakdown as BVdL but his support running is excellent and his pass delivery much quicker and accurate than last year
Not such an individual threat around the breakdown as BVdL but his support running is excellent and his pass delivery much quicker and accurate than last year
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 13:53
JvG has also praised TCS' game management - which is what semis are all about.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 15:39
I really like, and rate BVDL. If the poor guy could be injury free for 12 months he would , I am sure really impact and secure his place.
However now is not the time.
Ditto for Arthur Green
However now is not the time.
Ditto for Arthur Green
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Blues (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 20:29
Hate to say it but on form Chiefs are favourites.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 21:04
And Hooper and Ikitau are why. If we can find a way to nullify their contributions, we'll be in a good place. It's why I'd start Cam at 12 and Mojo at 13 and Miles at 8.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 11/06/2026 21:51
Quote:joethefanatic
And Hooper and Ikitau are why. If we can find a way to nullify their contributions, we'll be in a good place. It's why I'd start Cam at 12 and Mojo at 13 and Miles at 8.
I thought Chiefs revival was all down to Slade from reports and social media posts. I will be very surprised if we lose at home to Chiefs given what's at stake. Away is a different matter but we've played that game. COYB 💙🖤🤍
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 10:12
Lovely write up on Dunny 'ere: [www.bbc.co.uk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 10:59
Quote:Bath Blues
Hate to say it but on form Chiefs are favourites.
As much as I'd like that to be true, I really don't see it this way at all. Stats show that the vast majority of playoff fixtures result in a home win. We also have a much smaller squad depth than you. Your bench will be considerably stronger than ours. To stand a chance we'd of needed all players to be available. The loss of Manny is obviously key, for reasons that need explaining to no one who watches rugby! The loss of Roots however could turn out to be a bigger loss, he is the enforcer who does all the hard work allowing Hooper to target the ball more, and Fisilau to make those line breaking runs. The back row combo of Roots Hooper and Fisilau has a great ballance. You could maybe replace Fisilau with Vincent and not lose much. We can't replace the physicality of Roots.
I'm sure when the teams are announced the site of a certain Mr Russell's name would calm the nerves of every Bath fan . His ommision however might have us chiefs fans dreaming of an upset.
For what it's worth, not much!, I believe you'll end up with a comfortable win. Our first 15 have played so many games, I believe the freshness of some Bath players with see you through, I can see us wilting, a bit like we did in the second half v a very poor Quin's side.
The real annoying thing for us is, if we'd been out of Europe I'm sure we would have won at Quin's and/or Gloucester and been having a hone semi at Sandy Park! But then I suppose the same is true of you, if you'd have lost v Saints in the champions cup you'd have been top and Saints more exhausted. It does seem ridiculous that any team that succeeds in Europe puts their success in the Prem in doubt.
Let's hope for a good game with the result decided by the players and not some controversial decision.
Whatever happens it's been a great season for us we've had some really enjoyable results. It almost feels like a free shot for us, the pressure is really on you as defending champions.
Enjoy everyone
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 11:30
Have to express a lot of admiration for Baxter and the calm astuteness with which the Club has gone about rebuilding a Championship challenging team. I can only see a nail-biter tomorrow - possibly with a Saints Q-F type vibe - early points to Exe followed by a gradual reeling in by Bath and a late winner from sheer physical pressure and crowd urging. Two great teams going at it, some special players. Nothing here not to like whatever the outcome.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 11:57
Team Up. Russell still out:
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Miles Reid
PG
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Miles Reid
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 11:57
Am simply loving how all us fans want to be the underdog. Nobody wanting to get big hopes up and dashed
But yeah, Baxter and his coaching team have done a brilliant rebuild in such a short space of time
And yet, we should, with home advantage, be favourite to win, but it's close. Just the kind of game that could turn on a contentious decision and/or a card
They do have the quality to get in front and keep us just enough away from nicking it. If they do, I'll applaud them and hope they win the final
As you can probably tell, am starting to get really quick nervous and excited in equal measures. And I can't even watch it live - got an all day team running event
Sheesh
But yeah, Baxter and his coaching team have done a brilliant rebuild in such a short space of time
And yet, we should, with home advantage, be favourite to win, but it's close. Just the kind of game that could turn on a contentious decision and/or a card
They do have the quality to get in front and keep us just enough away from nicking it. If they do, I'll applaud them and hope they win the final
As you can probably tell, am starting to get really quick nervous and excited in equal measures. And I can't even watch it live - got an all day team running event
Sheesh
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:00
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
I'm sure when the teams are announced the site of a certain Mr Russell's name would calm the nerves of every Bath fan . His ommision however might have us chiefs fans dreaming of an upset.
you can dream it seems.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:01
Exeter Chiefs:
15 Olly Woodburn
14 Paul Brown-Bampoe
13 Henry Slade
12 Len Ikitau
11 Campbell Ridl
10 Harvey Skinner
9 Stephen Varney
1 Scott Sio
2 Max Norey
3 Josh Iosefa-Scott
4 Dafydd Jenkins (c)
5 Andrea Zambonin
6 Tom Hooper
7 Christ Tshiunza
8 Greg Fisilau
Replacements:
16 Joseph Dweba
17 Ethan Burger
18 Bachuki Tchumbadze
19 Rusi Tuima
20 Ross Vintcent
21 Tom Cairns
22 Zack Wimbush
23 Ben Hammersley
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:12:02:26 by BathMatt53.
15 Olly Woodburn
14 Paul Brown-Bampoe
13 Henry Slade
12 Len Ikitau
11 Campbell Ridl
10 Harvey Skinner
9 Stephen Varney
1 Scott Sio
2 Max Norey
3 Josh Iosefa-Scott
4 Dafydd Jenkins (c)
5 Andrea Zambonin
6 Tom Hooper
7 Christ Tshiunza
8 Greg Fisilau
Replacements:
16 Joseph Dweba
17 Ethan Burger
18 Bachuki Tchumbadze
19 Rusi Tuima
20 Ross Vintcent
21 Tom Cairns
22 Zack Wimbush
23 Ben Hammersley
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:12:02:26 by BathMatt53.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:02
Quote:P G Tips
Team Up. Russell still out:
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Miles Reid
PG
Wow, big call that holding him back if we get through? Or is he badly crocked. Massive opportunity for Santi to shine in a strong side.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:02
Baffled as to why Lawrence retains his spot
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:05
Quote:Toast and Marmite
Baffled as to why Lawrence retains his spot
Not for his attack but for his pensive nouse against Slade I suspect.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Devonport Lad (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:08
Quote:shipwreckedQuote:P G Tips
Team Up. Russell still out:
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Miles Reid
PG
Wow, big call that holding him back if we get through? Or is he badly crocked. Massive opportunity for Santi to shine in a
strong side.
The best we can hope for is that JvG’s known this all week and that the squad have trained with Santi at 10 rather than it being a late change which disrupts the gameplan.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:10
I really thought Finn would be back tomorrow so this could mean his season is over. Obviously if Bath loose it will be, but if Santi performs at his best and Bath win Santi would probably keep the 10 shirt for the final.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:10
On the favourites things I don't think there's much argument that we're favourites. Bookies have us very short for Saturday and favourites to win the whole thing as well for a reason. Personally I think it's possible to recognise / enjoy that without being over confident about what is still to come and the real threat from other sides still invovled. Pressure is a privilege and all that.
Shame Finn not involved but this is what Carreras is here for. He's an experienced international who has played most of his rugby for Argentina at 10 including their run to a WC semi final. Not had an electric season but no reason he can't step up now and deliver what the team needs.
LFG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:12:10:50 by theredseat.
Shame Finn not involved but this is what Carreras is here for. He's an experienced international who has played most of his rugby for Argentina at 10 including their run to a WC semi final. Not had an electric season but no reason he can't step up now and deliver what the team needs.
LFG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:12:12:10:50 by theredseat.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:11
Disappointed no Finn. If (as according to JvG) he COULD have played last week, perhaps he's damaged his calf further in the week. I think we've still got enough to get the job done with Santi at 10, but I think we'll play much more within ourselves. Don't really care, as long as we win, but I had hoped that with Finn at 10, last home game of the season in the sun, we would have put in a proper all court performance.
Great pack, mind. Pleased Bayliss keeps his place. And a big bench to come on.
Bath by 8. Allez allez allez.
Great pack, mind. Pleased Bayliss keeps his place. And a big bench to come on.
Bath by 8. Allez allez allez.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:13
Quote:It has to be the latter, right?shipwreckedQuote:P G Tips
Team Up. Russell still out:
Bath Rugby: 1 Beno Obano, 2 Tom Dunn, 3 Thomas du Toit, 4 Quinn Roux, 5 Charlie Ewels, 6 Josh Bayliss, 7 Sam Underhill, 8 Alfie Barbeary, 9 Ben Spencer (c), 10 Santi Carreras, 11 Henry Arundell, 12 Max Ojomoh, 13 Ollie Lawrence, 14 Joe Cokanasiga, 15 Tom de Glanville
Replacements: 16 Kepueli Tuipulotu, 17 Francois van Wyk, 18 Vilikesa Sela, 19 Ross Molony, 20 Ted Hill, 21 Bernard van der Linde, 22 Cameron Redpath, 23 Miles Reid
PG
Wow, big call that holding him back if we get through? Or is he badly crocked. Massive opportunity for Santi to shine in a strong side.
Wonder if we're just keeping things ambiguous to keep the other sides guessing?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:18
“had hoped that with Finn at 10, last home game of the season in the sun, we would have put in a proper all courtroom game”
Let’s hope Spencer and JVG let Santi play a bit. He’s been very conservative with us, but there’s no reason why that back line can’t carve things up a bit.
Let’s hope Spencer and JVG let Santi play a bit. He’s been very conservative with us, but there’s no reason why that back line can’t carve things up a bit.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Smooothsides (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:20
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
Our first 15 have played so many games, I believe the freshness of some Bath players with see you through, I can see us wilting, a bit like we did in the second half v a very poor Quin's side.
Enjoy everyone
for the 23's selected, each Chief has played an average of 133 minutes more over the season, that's almost 2 full games. It's down to the prem rugby cup, the Chiefs 23 have 5191 minutes in that comp, the Bath 23 has 1844.
Brown-Bampoe, Tuima and Cairns between them have more PRC minutes than the whole Bath 23 for Saturday
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:23
Conservative in the semi might not be a bad thing? It's coping with the pressure he will be good at.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 12:48
In Santi we trust. An established Argie international who has played plenty of RWC and Rugby Championship games at 10 against Tier 1 nations. Also been Gloucester's talisman there (and 15 of course) for a number of years in the Prem.
Despite his versatility, he's still one of the best 10s in the league. How lucky are we to have someone like that...as a back up option.
FH debate and BvDL aside, we are as many expected. Going to be tight but I'm still confident. Needs to be a cauldron of noise tomorrow. COYB
Despite his versatility, he's still one of the best 10s in the league. How lucky are we to have someone like that...as a back up option.
FH debate and BvDL aside, we are as many expected. Going to be tight but I'm still confident. Needs to be a cauldron of noise tomorrow. COYB
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Marjo20 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:07
Whilst I'm gutted there is no Finn tomorrow - I will be backing Santi tomorrow to produce his absolute best. I'm confident that no Russell has come as no shock for JvG and I'm sure Santi would have been getting plenty of reps this week in training being the leader of the backline. While I love Spenny for his game management, I think that Santi is the type of 10 to benefit from having the ball in his hands repeatedly to build rhythm. Might be a classic scenario of "just give him the ball and let him run".
Anyway, here's to a good clean game!!! COYB!!!
Anyway, here's to a good clean game!!! COYB!!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:11
Santi was brought in for exactly this type of situation, I'm sure he will be a fine replacement.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:20
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:30
Quote:shipwrecked
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
Let Spencer kick goals.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:40
Quote:shipwrecked
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
He was at the top of the kicking stats in the Rugby Championship:
[www.rugbypass.com]
Fly-halves: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (SA) starting, Santi Carreras (Arg) bench
The two best goal-kickers from 10 by far were Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Santi Carreras, who potted 43 of their 48 goals for a stupendous 90% success rate.
Last week was not an ideal day for kicks from the tee and some of the locations were sub-optimal (he made a pretty good go of the one that hit the posts mind you). He is a good kicker.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 13:49
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:shipwrecked
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
He was at the top of the kicking stats in the Rugby Championship:
[www.rugbypass.com]
Fly-halves: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (SA) starting, Santi Carreras (Arg) bench
The two best goal-kickers from 10 by far were Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Santi Carreras, who potted 43 of their 48 goals for a stupendous 90% success rate.
Last week was not an ideal day for kicks from the tee and some of the locations were sub-optimal (he made a pretty good go of the one that hit the posts mind you). He is a good kicker.
Three league starts at ten this year - Newcastle (a), Sale (a) and Leicester last week. He's overdue playing fly half and place kicking in some more clement conditions to be fair to him
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 14:07
It is a shame Finn is not fit even for a bench spot. That team though is class IMHO - Santi will be fine at 10 - he is a World Class 10 who has performed at the very highest level. As said before this why we paid big bucks for him.
We need to start fast against Chiefs - we cannot let them settle into their meticulous game plan based around their back 5, we just cannot have another passive performance like at Sandy Park a few weeks ago. We need to hit them and let them know they are in for a serious battle.
It was interesting to hear both Dunny and Max O both saying the crowd noise at the Rec is so important and special to them and the whole team and just how much it lifts the team. We need to make that noise and cheer our boys to the Final. We must make our home advantage count.
COYB.
We need to start fast against Chiefs - we cannot let them settle into their meticulous game plan based around their back 5, we just cannot have another passive performance like at Sandy Park a few weeks ago. We need to hit them and let them know they are in for a serious battle.
It was interesting to hear both Dunny and Max O both saying the crowd noise at the Rec is so important and special to them and the whole team and just how much it lifts the team. We need to make that noise and cheer our boys to the Final. We must make our home advantage count.
COYB.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 14:29
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
I'm sure when the teams are announced the site of a certain Mr Russell's name would calm the nerves of every Bath fan . His ommision however might have us chiefs fans dreaming of an upset.
you can dream it seems.
A little bit of me has started dreaming Matt! Looking at the two teams they are very closely matched. Making a combined 23 would be difficult!
A quick comparison, I'd say you have the edge in the front row, TDT is some player, and after seeing him on a recent podcast, a top bloke too, it's impossible to dislike him in any way! I'd love to see him in a Chiefs shirt!!
The second row I think we have the edge, especially in the line out.
Back row is very close although you probably shade it, I think Hooper would get in your team though.
Scrum half - we both have quality in this position hard to choose who's best.
Fly Half- even with Finn out you still have the edge. I do like Skinner but I really don't see him as a prem quality ten.
Centre- again close but on current form if take out combo.
Back three - Without Manny,, not much in it. You probably shade it on experience.
Bench- Definitely a big win for you, and could be the difference.
Getting excited now!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 15:10
No Finn drains a lot of the confidence in Bath winning, despite what the bookies might say.
However the game will be decided by Bath’s discipline, more than 10 penalties conceded will result in a field day for Slade and a defeat for Bath.
However the game will be decided by Bath’s discipline, more than 10 penalties conceded will result in a field day for Slade and a defeat for Bath.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 15:24
Quote:OutsideBath
No Finn drains a lot of the confidence in Bath winning, despite what the bookies might say.
However the game will be decided by Bath’s discipline, more than 10 penalties conceded will result in a field day for Slade and a defeat for Bath.
I agree. It's so important on tight, knockout games. Although Bath "only" conceded 12 last week, where and when is just as crucial. The start of the game for example - we botched catching the kick off, followed it up with a pen (offside I think) and went 7 down. It's backing up mistakes with pens that can kill you.
Fast forward to the last few mins and Big Joe is standing offside out on the wing. I get it, if you're guarding the ruck close in, in a tight game but not out there. Could have been costly.
Rugby smarts needed all the way in now.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 15:56
Quote:BathMatt53Quote:shipwrecked
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
He was at the top of the kicking stats in the Rugby Championship:
[www.rugbypass.com]
Fly-halves: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (SA) starting, Santi Carreras (Arg) bench
The two best goal-kickers from 10 by far were Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Santi Carreras, who potted 43 of their 48 goals for a stupendous 90% success rate.
Last week was not an ideal day for kicks from the tee and some of the locations were sub-optimal (he made a pretty good go of the one that hit the posts mind you). He is a good kicker.
Blunt stats like that can mask the reality
No indication of how many were straight in front of sticks or thereabouts
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 16:20
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 16:30
Quote:gaz59Quote:BathMatt53Quote:shipwrecked
I hope he has been practising his place kicking, last week wasn't brilliant to be fair.
He was at the top of the kicking stats in the Rugby Championship:
[www.rugbypass.com]
Fly-halves: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (SA) starting, Santi Carreras (Arg) bench
The two best goal-kickers from 10 by far were Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Santi Carreras, who potted 43 of their 48 goals for a stupendous 90% success rate.
Last week was not an ideal day for kicks from the tee and some of the locations were sub-optimal (he made a pretty good go of the one that hit the posts mind you). He is a good kicker.
Blunt stats like that can mask the reality
No indication of how many were straight in front of sticks or thereabouts
Agreed. And anyway, if we were to give away enough penalties in kicking range to lose tomorrow then it will be fully deserved. Can't be ill-disciplined in semi-finals
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 18:41
My big worry is that we are leading by 5 points in the 78 minute....we concede a penalty on the half way line.
Slade kicks to 5 yards they win the line out and drive and score and Slade then kicks the conversion!!
Slade kicks to 5 yards they win the line out and drive and score and Slade then kicks the conversion!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 19:01
Quote:Bath Hammer
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Certainly from the right hand side of the pitch
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 19:43
Quote:Bath Hammer
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Our back line has been pretty ineffective all season and non existent in some games since LB left so relying on the pack to do most of the work isn’t anything new.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 20:38
Quote:OutsideBathQuote:Bath Hammer
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Our back line has been pretty ineffective all season and non existent in some games since LB left so relying on the pack to do most of the work isn’t anything new.
We've scored 94 tries this season?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: makeitagem (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 20:39
JC has scored 2 league try's this season in 18 games, poor return for a winger.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 21:56
Quote:Yet, think many on here would say it's been a good season for him. Much more solid all round and looked much more like the physical ball carrier he seemed born to bemakeitagem
JC has scored 2 league try's this season in 18 games, poor return for a winger.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Blues (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 22:06
No Russell no party.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2026 23:59
What happens if Santi gets injured?!? Max to 10? TDG?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 05:48
Quote:Mini Maximus
What happens if Santi gets injured?!? Max to 10? TDG?
Definitely Max to 10 with Redpath on the bench, TdG stays at 15.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 08:46
Interesting selection.
Probably the right call on balance to bring dunn and roux straight back in. Add some freshness , bulk and experience.
Made 6 a straight shoot out between bayliss and hill- bayliss has been immense all season and hill has been stand out last few games.
I would have played reid at 8 personally- too good a player to be playing a bit part in the business end of the season.
I am excited to see how santi goes, exactly the reason we signed him and he should be able to control big games.
Lawrence has to repay the faith. Prob a nod to the strength of the exeter pairing to go with what we know.
I think we have been badly underperforming the last few months- have looked emotionally flat since UBB.
If we can't find some motivation and excitement for a semi final at the rec to propel us up a notch then we have deeper probs. We need to go to our dna- physically brutal, pragmatic game plan and efficient in taking our chances.
I think we will sneak it, if ifw was playing I think we would lose- that's how highly I rate him and how significant I see his loss. Plenty of threats in that exeter squad but agree with BCLC that the bath bench is stronger.
Probably the right call on balance to bring dunn and roux straight back in. Add some freshness , bulk and experience.
Made 6 a straight shoot out between bayliss and hill- bayliss has been immense all season and hill has been stand out last few games.
I would have played reid at 8 personally- too good a player to be playing a bit part in the business end of the season.
I am excited to see how santi goes, exactly the reason we signed him and he should be able to control big games.
Lawrence has to repay the faith. Prob a nod to the strength of the exeter pairing to go with what we know.
I think we have been badly underperforming the last few months- have looked emotionally flat since UBB.
If we can't find some motivation and excitement for a semi final at the rec to propel us up a notch then we have deeper probs. We need to go to our dna- physically brutal, pragmatic game plan and efficient in taking our chances.
I think we will sneak it, if ifw was playing I think we would lose- that's how highly I rate him and how significant I see his loss. Plenty of threats in that exeter squad but agree with BCLC that the bath bench is stronger.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 08:46
Quote:Over 30 tries are by the forwards, many/most from close range.BarfboyQuote:OutsideBathQuote:Bath Hammer
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Our back line has been pretty ineffective all season and non existent in some games since LB left so relying on the pack to do most of the work isn’t anything new.
We've scored 94 tries this season?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 09:36
Quote:dcshQuote:Over 30 tries are by the forwards, many/most from close range.BarfboyQuote:OutsideBathQuote:Bath Hammer
Our back line has been pretty ineffective recently, especially without Finn. We will probably have to rely on the pack, principally TdT to do it for us but Spencer should take the goal kicks.
Our back line has been pretty ineffective all season and non existent in some games since LB left so relying on the pack to do most of the work isn’t anything new.
We've scored 94 tries this season?
Ok, well that still leaves over 60 tries scored by the backline. It's no secret our attack hasn't been firing as well as last season, but ineffective/non-existent? Don't know about that. It's actually 98 tries, 10 ahead of Sarries in 3rd (with Caluori accounting for nearly a quarter of those in about 4 games).
TdT is a weapon any team would use but last week was an exception as opposed to the norm. It's hardly Exeter in the Waldrom years.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 14:58
That had to go to Henry then fgs
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 14:59
As soon as it didn't we were in trouble. Lucky with the forward pass!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:00
"Bath give away early penalty, resulting in kick by Slade to touch": have you got the lottery numbers?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:00
Quote:Toast and Marmite
That had to go to Henry then fgs
It did, not a good moment from OL..
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:01
Got away with that
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:01
Ollie …please give the pass !
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:12
Our errors are gifting Chiefs possession and position, v frustrating
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:17
TDT taking the bins out !
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:17
Without wishing to tempt fate, this is the best our lineout has looked in ages.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:21
Loving the "big + quiet" on TdT's shirt beneath the Dyson logo on the front 😄. Is this a happy accident or a planned thing? Need to see what's on the shirts of our other players..
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:24
I guess thats the risk of a @#$%& poor kick and chase …
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:15:25:03 by Pulteneyfan.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:15:25:03 by Pulteneyfan.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:26
Ollie repays the faith!
Very close to an intercept earlier in the move though!
Very close to an intercept earlier in the move though!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:27
Santis kicking ain't too shabby either!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:28
Quote:A.M 180
Ollie repays the faith!
Very close to an intercept earlier in the move though!
Yes he does thank goodness 😊
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:33
Blimey what a finish Henry!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:34
Arundel squeaky Bim time, but given!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:39
Whats up with our back line ?? More depth needed
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 15:47
Another good performance from the officials today, quick and unfussy decision making. There seem to be far fewer tmo big screen replays for queries or offences in these s/finals. I wonder if there has been a change in these processes? If so I'm pleased about it because the game flows and we don't have a growing chorus of disapproval from the crowd.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:13
Time to empty the bench – its been a pretty lacklustre start to the second half and we need some new blood.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:19
Ah, the trademark switch off
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:19
Need to switch back on.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:20
We seem incapable of learning from previous games- this is exactly what we did last time against them when we let them back in
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:20
Our leaky defence and lack of any back line threat are killing us
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:22
STOP KICKING IT AWAY
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:24
I have a horrible feeling
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:24
Awful decision making again
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:25
I can't understand why TDT is still on – he's out on his feet
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Blues (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:26
Need to wake up.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:26
So annoying that we give them easy ball
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:31
That’s an awful awful call - Genuinely a chance to intercept that
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:16:32:25 by Toast and Marmite.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:16:32:25 by Toast and Marmite.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:31
This is slipping away from us 😕
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:31
Getting turned over by teams like this is not Championship winning calibre
There's something mentally not right
There's something mentally not right
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:32
Exeter have made us look very ordinary second half. Santi is anonymous.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:34
Baxter said it. They stopped giving us penalties we can enter with and we stop being able to attack. Add to that the scrim going against and it all feels so familiar.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:35
Terrible second half. Come on. Wake up.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:35
We have looked so ordinary this half
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:36
We dont deserve to win this. We’ve been comprehensively outplayed so far second half
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:36
This is not an acceptable level of performance
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:39
We have zero structure in attack (although do think a bit unlucky as the offside player clearly affected Spencer's decision). Just going through phase hoping something magic will just happen.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:39
Just need to play simple rugby and not flap like a bunch of schoolboys
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:39
[In the last three Prem games we have scored just seven points in the second half
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:41
That…wasn’t forward on the replay
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:41
Neither of these sides will trouble Saints at HQ. I think we thought we were in control at h/time but have lost our grip on the game. Santi has not been conducting the backline in the 2nd half, he and Spencer have not been able to work well together...
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:42
We dont just seem to be getting that luck? Was that knock on clear and obvious. Nope. But we went beck for it.
We've done ourselves no favours but...
We've done ourselves no favours but...
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:44
Feed gone for anyone else?!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:44
My TNT picture is glitching now , can't see the game 😡
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hantssabre (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:45
TNT are a right shower
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:47
Not going to happen is it
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:48
This is seriously poor - there is no way we should be losing from that half time score
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:52
That was on the line three times. Absolute joke.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: JK7 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:53
That finish is just about unforgiveable.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:53
Are we not checking for grounding?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:53
Totally moronic at the end - so so stupid
Utterly livid
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Utterly livid
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:53
Awful …just awful. Dumb decision making
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:53
Agree, that was scored at least twice.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: JK7 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:54
Maybe a dozen times we could have dropped a goal and we were utterly boneheaded about it. Don't deserve to win if we're that dumb.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:54
Hoisted by our petard
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:55
Well played Chiefs – we just ran out of puff at the end of a long season.
A total of seven points from the last three second halves says it all and I don't think we ever recovered from losing Lee Blackett to England.
A total of seven points from the last three second halves says it all and I don't think we ever recovered from losing Lee Blackett to England.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:56
Congrats to Exeter, superb second half from them, but they got away with it at the end.
Officials mut go back and check those groundings.
Officials mut go back and check those groundings.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: JK7 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:57
I'm trying not to be too harsh in the heat of the moment but Santi was supposedly insuring us against Finn being unavailable. He simply hasn't done that, today or over the season.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:57
Quote:JK7
Maybe a dozen times we could have dropped a goal and we were utterly boneheaded about it. Don't deserve to win if we're that dumb.
Yep. Definitely some issues need addressing for next season. Absolutely no leadership out there
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 16:59
Quote:Bath Blues
No Russell no party.
This.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Florida97 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:00
Don't deserve to be there this year. We've been negative in attack for large amounts of this season, we refuse to use are backline so much of the time, its driven me mad, and i'm sure its driven others mad as well. Unless are pick and go game works we are don't seem to score. Looking forward to seeing the new attack coach and what they will provide. That was some really poor play at the end, why we refuse to go wide when we tighten teams up, i have no idea.
Credit to Exeter they were brilliant and deserved to win today, we were horrible in that second half.
Credit to Exeter they were brilliant and deserved to win today, we were horrible in that second half.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:02
Quote:JK7
I'm trying not to be too harsh in the heat of the moment but Santi was supposedly insuring us against Finn being unavailable. He simply hasn't done that, today or over the season.
Yes I have defended him in the past but he looked like he didn’t want to take the responsibility on which is an extraordinary statement to make about an international fly half
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: bathwickboy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:02
What a disaster! Well done to chiefs who totally dominated the second half but what were we doing at the end? No single person is ever responsible for a win or indeed a loss but I have to say that I expected more from Carreras throughout the season. I think he has been very disappointing but certainly not responsible for our loss. It is a team game. Just so disappointed although we haven't been firing on all cylinders recently.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:03
Would love to see if we grounded the ball in those final few attacks. Also surprised that Woodburn was penalised for head on head and hands were on the floor which is usually given as an offside.
Bath didn’t deserve to win, too much rotation has cost us our match fitness IMO and it’s been evident over the last block.
Bath didn’t deserve to win, too much rotation has cost us our match fitness IMO and it’s been evident over the last block.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: JK7 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:04
Joe's out there looking crushed. Feel very bad for him, this wasn't his doing.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:05
Quote:JK7
Joe's out there looking crushed. Feel very bad for him, this wasn't his doing.
I thought his card was really harsh- but yeah not what cost us
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:08
Quote:by
Would love to see if we grounded the ball in those final few attacks. Also surprised that Woodburn was penalised for head on head and hands were on the floor which is usually given as an offside.
Bath didn’t deserve to win, too much rotation has cost us our match fitness IMO and it’s been evident over the last block.
Where was the leadership in the last 5?
We didn't even plant a seed of doubt in Ridley's head. We didn't take the drop goal and even failed to notice Santi calling for it.
We were clearly hoping that some penalty would fall our way without realising there was no way Ridley was giving a penalty during those phases.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:09
We are boring and predictable. Once the front five had blown up, there only looked one winner.
Carreras was MIA. But JVG has to change things and get more iut a backline with all that talent.
Carreras was MIA. But JVG has to change things and get more iut a backline with all that talent.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:10
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:JK7
Joe's out there looking crushed. Feel very bad for him, this wasn't his doing.
I thought his card was really harsh- but yeah not what cost us
As I've been banging on for weeks, the interpetation is totally wrong by the refs - he cas clearly trying to knock it up, not on, so accidental, so scrum no yellow is the common sense call based on the laws, not the nonsense interpetation.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:11
And that's why you don't substitute Spencer off.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:12
Loads of things cost us, but that was one. Harsh card for me, in the context of the earlier knock on only. Felt like the tmo talking the ref into that one.
I know the earlier one had two hands on it, and that's a difference, but we lost because two players were genuinely trying to catch the ball, one got two hands on it, the other could reasonably caught it but got one on it, I dont buy the commentators view, one handed intercepts get caught all the time.
I know the earlier one had two hands on it, and that's a difference, but we lost because two players were genuinely trying to catch the ball, one got two hands on it, the other could reasonably caught it but got one on it, I dont buy the commentators view, one handed intercepts get caught all the time.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:12
Quote:hasta
And that's why you don't substitute Spencer off.
Really? I thought he was nowhere near his best and actually made some really poor decisions
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Francisbath666 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:14
Why isn't Santi screaming for the drop goal? Because he's not a big game player
Why are we picking and going when our backnline is so good 😓
With no star power we deserved to lose.
Why are we picking and going when our backnline is so good 😓
With no star power we deserved to lose.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:15
Think ultimately we got what we deserved there. Firstly the game had so many similarities to Bristol where we followed a solid controlled first half with a second that undid all the good work. Poor again from Santi today when a drop goal or getting the ball to Cokanasiga probably wins it for us. Well played Exeter.
Secondly we’ve spent a lot of this season relying on doing a few things really well at the expense of being the more well rounded team we seemed to be last year. Defence and attack both off the level from a year ago.
Think we need a step up and increased energy and confidence players like Sela, Richards, BvdL, Hennessey, Green next year and to fix whatever is broken with Lawrence and Carreras. JvG and team need to find a better way to use all the tools we have available.
Secondly we’ve spent a lot of this season relying on doing a few things really well at the expense of being the more well rounded team we seemed to be last year. Defence and attack both off the level from a year ago.
Think we need a step up and increased energy and confidence players like Sela, Richards, BvdL, Hennessey, Green next year and to fix whatever is broken with Lawrence and Carreras. JvG and team need to find a better way to use all the tools we have available.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:16
When teams perform less than the sum of their parts, that is a serious point of concern. The fact is, that's been the story since after the Bordeaux game.
Congrats to Chiefs - they showed belief and nous, something again we've been missing since the Bordeaux game
Congrats to Chiefs - they showed belief and nous, something again we've been missing since the Bordeaux game
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:16
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
And that's why you don't substitute Spencer off.
Really? I thought he was nowhere near his best and actually made some really poor decisions
Ditto. Felt like we left him on too long if anything.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:17
Quote:Dorset BoyQuote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:JK7
Joe's out there looking crushed. Feel very bad for him, this wasn't his doing.
I thought his card was really harsh- but yeah not what cost us
As I've been banging on for weeks, the interpetation is totally wrong by the refs - he cas clearly trying to knock it up, not on, so accidental, so scrum no yellow is the common sense call based on the laws, not the nonsense interpetation.
Karl Dickson was responsible for JoCo's yellow, Ridley happy to treat it as a knock on but KD insisted it should be reviewed with the TMO who in turn got onto Ridley's ear. A moment in the game but not why we lost - my Bath bubble has definitely burst but at least I was there for peak JVG in season 24/25.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: @Hydor18 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:18
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
And that's why you don't substitute Spencer off.
Really? I thought he was nowhere near his best and actually made some really poor decisions
Spenno was okay but did have a few daft moments. Thought BvdL was sharp though was given a bit of a rough deal to try and win the match within four minutes.
They will watch those last seconds and wonder how the hell we lost that. One pass and we’d have strolled in, but no they had to go the hard route.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Florida97 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:23
I know we all knew he was a big loss, but loosing Will Stuart has been such a massive gap in how we were last season. I was hoping Santi would've shown us why we paid what we did for him.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:24
Perspective people, we’ve had another fun and enjoyable season. Let’s not forget the Hopper years and how much better it is now. We really shouldn’t be losing at home but we just weren’t good enough in the second half.
Good luck Saints next week.
Good luck Saints next week.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:24
Oh I meant for the leadership value. Tbf to Santi, there were a number of times he was screaming for the ball and it never went out to him.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:27
Quote:Florida97
I know we all knew he was a big loss, but loosing Will Stuart has been such a massive gap in how we were last season. I was hoping Santi would've shown us why we paid what we did for him.
Stuart was out helping with drills in the warm up. Bodes well for him to make the start of next season at least
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:28
Fair play to Rob Baxter almost defending Carreras for not going for the DG.
He’s absolutely right Baths DNA all season have been the close drive for a try, so why go for anything different?
Credit to Exeter for surviving 40+ phases!
He’s absolutely right Baths DNA all season have been the close drive for a try, so why go for anything different?
Credit to Exeter for surviving 40+ phases!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:29
Who are you and what have you done with OB?
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:17:30:15 by Dan Wiley.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:17:30:15 by Dan Wiley.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:30
Quote:tigersimon
Fair play to Rob Baxter almost defending Carreras for not going for the DG.
He’s absolutely right Baths DNA all season have been the close drive for a try, so why go for anything different?
Credit to Exeter for surviving 40+ phases!
He’s absolutely class.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Florida97 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:39
Said it before in other threads, don't think Ollie Lawrence is anywhere close to being his usual self, looks a lot slower than he did pre injury. Hopefully he can gain that speed back as he hasn't been up to his usual standard this season
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: A.M 180 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:48
Quote:You're not wrong OB.OutsideBath
Perspective people, we’ve had another fun and enjoyable season. Let’s not forget the Hopper years and how much better it is now. We really shouldn’t be losing at home but we just weren’t good enough in the second half.
There have been some unforgettable moments this season, which can't always be said of Bath seasons and I hope everyone involved can look back on those proudly at some point soon.
A future on the best ground in sport secured as well this campaign we shouldn't forget, meaning hopefully many more glorious afternoons at the Rec to look forward to
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Toast and Marmite (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:53
We go again next season. Look at the cliff Saints and Exeter fell off last season- by comparison we have been contenders in both Europe and the Premiership and have some exciting players coming through.
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
’’Paint the whole world with a rainbow”
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hemington (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 17:58
At least our boys will have an extra week off and not many will be picked for England so a good rest can be had by most.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 18:07
Quote:hemington
At least our boys will have an extra week off and not many will be picked for England so a good rest can be had by most.
All our supporters will have an extra week off too but I'm not sure they welcome it. Time to head for the beach ⛱️😎
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 18:09
Completely fell apart, TdT was done at 55 minutes, no ball carriers in second half and lost the collisions. Ollie Lawrence has lost serious acceleration in the first 10m but let's face it Santi Carerras looked all at sea at 10, interceptions, passing was off and should have kicked for territory far more but clearly he should have insisted on the drop at the end. Hate to say it but I think JvG got a few things wrong.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Widcombe boy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 18:20
Quote:JK7
I'm trying not to be too harsh in the heat of the moment but Santi was supposedly insuring us against Finn being unavailable. He simply hasn't done that, today or over the season.
Perhaps if he had been given some games at 10 during the season he might have had a chance
Widcombe Garçon
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 18:21
I’ll come back and read the above later, so apologies if the immediate aftermath thoughts are repeats or have been discussed to death.
Exeter’s fitness showing through. I read that their pre-season was brutal. Well, it’s paid off. We came out for the second half stodgy. Their defence at the death, to stay inside and repel 40+ phases was unreal.
Leadership, who was there driving us on? Did it leave when Ewels went off? Is Spencer too quiet or too busy chatting to the Ref? It shouldn’t fall to Barbeary to gee us up, he’s leaving.
I can’t fathom how in the first half our scrum dominance was rewarded with “use it” and in the second half Exeter’s was rewarded with penalties. Were we too quick to get it to 8?
Looked like Redpath was offering himself up to Carreras to take the drop goal at times. But alas, no. If we didn’t get it after 20 phases, back yourself.
First half us would have given Saints a game, second half us wouldn’t have given anyone a game.
Take some extended time off, brutal pre-season, new attack coach plan, focus on the Prem above all else, keep rotating well to maintain freshness. At least there’s a 7 month footie World Cup sport to keep me distracted over summer. COYB.
Exeter’s fitness showing through. I read that their pre-season was brutal. Well, it’s paid off. We came out for the second half stodgy. Their defence at the death, to stay inside and repel 40+ phases was unreal.
Leadership, who was there driving us on? Did it leave when Ewels went off? Is Spencer too quiet or too busy chatting to the Ref? It shouldn’t fall to Barbeary to gee us up, he’s leaving.
I can’t fathom how in the first half our scrum dominance was rewarded with “use it” and in the second half Exeter’s was rewarded with penalties. Were we too quick to get it to 8?
Looked like Redpath was offering himself up to Carreras to take the drop goal at times. But alas, no. If we didn’t get it after 20 phases, back yourself.
First half us would have given Saints a game, second half us wouldn’t have given anyone a game.
Take some extended time off, brutal pre-season, new attack coach plan, focus on the Prem above all else, keep rotating well to maintain freshness. At least there’s a 7 month footie World Cup sport to keep me distracted over summer. COYB.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 18:31
Disappointing, but well done Exeter.
I believe JvG will take his time to analyse this season and plan for next with the changes in personnel to come back well next season. While going from 3 trophies to 3 semi final exits is a big step down, it is miles better than the pre-JvG era!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:18:58:44 by dcsh.
I believe JvG will take his time to analyse this season and plan for next with the changes in personnel to come back well next season. While going from 3 trophies to 3 semi final exits is a big step down, it is miles better than the pre-JvG era!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:18:58:44 by dcsh.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: SotonHoop (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 19:25
Drop goal! Drop goal! Drop goal!!!
I just don’t it. Gutted
I just don’t it. Gutted
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 19:45
Quote:@Hydor18
One pass and we’d have strolled in, but no they had to go the hard route.
Getting held up over the line needs to be officially designated as the biggest sin/error in rugby - fineable, droppable, hangable. Butcher a position 50 centimetres from the line in any other way and you get slaughtered.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rawce (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 19:46
Quote:At times, then at others such as the pre-halftime in game chat he was grumping and groaning about how Bath were slowing the ball down like his team never do that when it suits them. He will say some rounded, unbiased stuff (usually in post game interviews) then come out with the most obvious one eyed tosh at times.Toast and MarmiteQuote:tigersimon
Fair play to Rob Baxter almost defending Carreras for not going for the DG.
He’s absolutely right Baths DNA all season have been the close drive for a try, so why go for anything different?
Credit to Exeter for surviving 40+ phases!
He’s absolutely class.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: guernseyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 19:53
For me we lost because: (i) Europe took a lot out of the squad including a few injuries, (ii) the front row stayed on 10 minutes too long and (iii) final decision making was awful. The first is the main one though. Can't see how we could have lived with Saints.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 19:59
Santi misses the drop goal. Big Joe knocks on in the corner. Fine! We lose bravely to the better side on the day… but getting held up after 40 phases! Oh my… goodness. What a total shocker.
Need to keep in perspective, as OB suggests, and think how far we’ve come. It’s only because of our success that a SF defeat feels so so so tough. TDT and Alfie deserved more than that today but fair play to Exe. They were magnificent in the second 40. I’d have bought BVDL on after 55… but I’d also like to go back and tear up the whole second half so what’s done is done. Today is further proof of how tough it is to fight on two fronts- but no excuses. Well done Exe.
Never too high never too low… well, I feel pretty darn low tonight. We go again in September. Allez Bath.
Need to keep in perspective, as OB suggests, and think how far we’ve come. It’s only because of our success that a SF defeat feels so so so tough. TDT and Alfie deserved more than that today but fair play to Exe. They were magnificent in the second 40. I’d have bought BVDL on after 55… but I’d also like to go back and tear up the whole second half so what’s done is done. Today is further proof of how tough it is to fight on two fronts- but no excuses. Well done Exe.
Never too high never too low… well, I feel pretty darn low tonight. We go again in September. Allez Bath.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:09
Let's not forget that we have no culture of drop goals because Finn hates them
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:17
Quote:OptimistQuote:@Hydor18
One pass and we’d have strolled in, but no they had to go the hard route.
Getting held up over the line needs to be officially designated as the biggest sin/error in rugby - fineable, droppable, hangable. Butcher a position 50 centimetres from the line in any other way and you get slaughtered.
While I agree, I don't hold any ill will to Sela for being held up after we'd had 20 phases where we could have credibly have someone step up and take a drop goal. Or we could have released it when the backs were crying for it.
Our goal line carry has been effective but it is not without it's risk. I think the likelihood of a held up is higher than missing a drop goal from straight in front of the posts. There is no risk free option to cross the line but we could have done with some cooler heads and a bit more leadership in the last phase.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:30
I’m not just talking about the decision to pick and drive - that’s fine, but once you are that close to the line it’s essentially undefendable if the attackers retain their patience - just don’t make that final push for the line until it’s 100% nailed on. It doesn’t even matter if you go back a few metres, because the closer you are to the line the easier it is for the defenders to stay onside, and avoid the killer penalty/card.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:41
Got another positive for everyone, we now don’t have to waste time going to one of the worst stadiums in Europe.
Time to enjoy some of the highs this season and look forward to starting again in September.
Time to enjoy some of the highs this season and look forward to starting again in September.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: westglos (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:42
Interested spectator from Glawster here.
Santi an easy scapegoat, and I think the difference when he was an absolute star for us was that when he was available he was the nailed on starter. He was a fixture in the side, and he had that fluency and understanding from playing week in, week out.
Maybe having a big, quality squad can work against you? Mind you, fair play to Exeter - that squad played like more than the sum of their parts.
Santi an easy scapegoat, and I think the difference when he was an absolute star for us was that when he was available he was the nailed on starter. He was a fixture in the side, and he had that fluency and understanding from playing week in, week out.
Maybe having a big, quality squad can work against you? Mind you, fair play to Exeter - that squad played like more than the sum of their parts.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: JK7 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 20:44
Commentators said Carreras has never hit a drop goal for Argentina (64 caps) . Not sure we can blame Finn for him choosing not to do it today.
That said, Finn is clearly not their biggest fan either. We don't know if he'd have gone for it on this occasion but It's somewhat mind blowing that a player of SC's quality wasn't confident enough to take one in that situation, from that position. Surely one lesson for JvG to take from this is to train drop goals until he is, because that deficiency in our game has cost us a final today.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:20:46:21 by JK7.
That said, Finn is clearly not their biggest fan either. We don't know if he'd have gone for it on this occasion but It's somewhat mind blowing that a player of SC's quality wasn't confident enough to take one in that situation, from that position. Surely one lesson for JvG to take from this is to train drop goals until he is, because that deficiency in our game has cost us a final today.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:20:46:21 by JK7.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:17
I’d still maintain that if you’ve got to within a metre of their line, a DG is a more difficult rugby skill than gaining one more metre of territory.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:21
Quote:Toast and MarmiteQuote:hasta
And that's why you don't substitute Spencer off.
Really? I thought he was nowhere near his best and actually made some really poor decisions
Agree, I thought Ben looked exhausted in the second half, should have given Bernard 20 mins not 3 !
Adopted Player 2018/19 Ross Batty
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Adopted Player 2023/24 Tom Carr-Smith
Adopted Player 2024/25 Max Ojomoh
"AN OUNCE OF ACTION IS WORTH A TON OF THEORY"
FRIEDRICH ENGELS
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:32
Completely agree with that Opti. And I bet that’s also what’s jotted in JvG’s notebook and backed up by lots of data, which is why we do it and did it today.
Against Exe in January, Finn didn’t fancy a drop goal for 40 odd phases but Green eventually muscled over and we won the game. Kepu or Alfie so so so so nearly did the same today. It’s just that post fact, in hindsight, cos it didn’t work, another option is obviously now the better choice. Ho hum.
Mellowing a bit and calming now. Above all, just fair play to Exeter- what heart to fight back and then hold us out. Maybe they’ll surprise us all again next week?
Against Exe in January, Finn didn’t fancy a drop goal for 40 odd phases but Green eventually muscled over and we won the game. Kepu or Alfie so so so so nearly did the same today. It’s just that post fact, in hindsight, cos it didn’t work, another option is obviously now the better choice. Ho hum.
Mellowing a bit and calming now. Above all, just fair play to Exeter- what heart to fight back and then hold us out. Maybe they’ll surprise us all again next week?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:32
Lets face it, if we can't win at the Rec then we wouldn't have a hope in hell of beating the Saints side that beat Tigers at Twickenham!
We need to lose a few games next season bringing on the likes of Kepu, Billy, Green, TCS, Donoghue, Hennessy as starters. We were rudderless without Finn.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
We need to lose a few games next season bringing on the likes of Kepu, Billy, Green, TCS, Donoghue, Hennessy as starters. We were rudderless without Finn.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Barfboy (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:41
Hold my hands up; tried to defend our attack earlier in thread but it was and has been woeful, rudderless and bereft of imagination in recent weeks. Today epitomised just how bad it's been.
I don't blame any individual for today's loss but I just wonder where we'd be if LB had stayed. He must have had a say in Santi signing and indeed how he'd slot in to our backline.
Absolutely gutted but can only say fair play to Exeter. Fairytale stuff given last year's showing. Chuffed for Baxter too. Very well drilled and they'll have their work cut out vs Saints but good luck to them.
In the words of Mr Russell in 2024: "guess we'll just have to go and win it next year".
I don't blame any individual for today's loss but I just wonder where we'd be if LB had stayed. He must have had a say in Santi signing and indeed how he'd slot in to our backline.
Absolutely gutted but can only say fair play to Exeter. Fairytale stuff given last year's showing. Chuffed for Baxter too. Very well drilled and they'll have their work cut out vs Saints but good luck to them.
In the words of Mr Russell in 2024: "guess we'll just have to go and win it next year".
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:48
Apparently, Exeter didn't concede a single penalty in the 2nd half. Astonishingly, almost unbelievably, good discipline and clearly the ascendant team. And, like Baxter said, it deprived our entries. I hope discipline is a work on for us next season.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 21:57
Well played Exeter, given our second half performance we did not deserve to win. The difference seemed to be that our team plays by following a game plan and do not see to be able to think on their feet. We have not been the same team as last year for a long time, blaming the Bordeaux game is too simplistic, our reliance on the pick and go has blunted our ability to switch to other ways of playing - Santi was waving his arms for the ball, presumably to pass out to the backs for but completely ignored by blinkered forwards, it was always more likely we would make a mistake than miss the drop or give the outside backs the ball. Getting held up over the line was the worst way to lose a game that seemed won at half time.
Well done Baxter and the Exeter players, they deserved the victory.
Well done Baxter and the Exeter players, they deserved the victory.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 22:11
Just watched the game. Very well played Exeter but we threw that away. The lack of leadership on the pitch in the second half was alarming and we just let Exeter have all the momentum. Pretty disappointed but we can have absolutely no complaints. TBH we haven't been playing well for a few months now but having Finn's magic has papered over the cracks. They showed today.
The final is going to be a cracker. Shame we're not in it - maybe next year.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
The final is going to be a cracker. Shame we're not in it - maybe next year.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 22:13
Since beating Quins mid-April, we've lost 5 out of 7 (and one of those wins was a rout against Newcastle where we pointlessly kept Finn on the pitch the whole match - the last he played).
Worst time of the season to lose our form.
Worst time of the season to lose our form.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 22:28
It's worth saying that there is a screenshot on the Tigs site showing the ball clearly grounded on the Exeter line during the last phase of attacks. It might be AI generated, I suppose, but given the in-play interventions earlier, isn't that what the TMO is supposed to be for?
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:22:30:30 by joethefanatic.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:22:30:30 by joethefanatic.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: graham t (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 22:36
I don’t recall any reactions from the players during that period suggesting that they were convinced that the ball had been grounded.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 22:37
It looked like the ball had been grounded on the line 3 times. The players wouldn't have had any time to show elation if it wasn't given as they still had a job to do.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Wynners (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 23:13
I’m going to say something sacrilegious on ere. Today confirmed for me that Bath’s top priority should be to accelerate planning for life without Ben Spencer. I love Ben - he’s been so central to all that’s been good about Bath over the past couple of years. But everything goes through him, and particularly without Finn he seems to over think and over structure our game plan because he doesn’t trust anyone else, and that inhibits the rest of the team. For example I really don’t think it’s a coincidence that Donoghue played brilliantly at Franklin’s Gardens with first BvDL and then TCS for most of the match - because it allowed him to play his game. Then when he played at The Mem vs. Bristol with Ben at 9 he played within himself and seemed to force and overthink things. Similarly today - why was Ben taking the touch kicks when we had Santi at 10 who would normally do it for club and country? It just becomes rhe Ben Spencer show when he’s calling all the shots, and executing most of them too. So for people saying Santi should have taken control at the end (and I cede Ben was off by this point) is it more that he’s been in a structure/culture that has made him feel that’s not his role? Just strikes me if we’re not careful Ben could become to us what Farrell arguably became for Sarries
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Exeforever (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 23:15
IMO neither Bath's management nor senior players made the clear and obvious decisions at critcal points. Bath somehow suffered from collective brain fade when under pressure. You need to keep a leader on the field. Over time we have had Steenson, Waldrom/Parling, Slade and now Jenkins. Spencer was "whingey" .
Your side was better man for man.
Ours was hungrier.
Who gets to eat at the banquet?
Your side was better man for man.
Ours was hungrier.
Who gets to eat at the banquet?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 23:53
Quote:Exeforever
IMO neither Bath's management nor senior players made the clear and obvious decisions at critcal points. Bath somehow suffered from collective brain fade when under pressure. You need to keep a leader on the field. Over time we have had Steenson, Waldrom/Parling, Slade and now Jenkins. Spencer was "whingey" .
Your side was better man for man.
Ours was hungrier.
Who gets to eat at the banquet?
Well, your problem now is how to get to the buffet before Saints have finished gorging themselves! Wish it was us but it isn't so its up to you guys to carry the West Country banner with pride
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:13:23:58:12 by joethefanatic.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Blues (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2026 23:54
Had nothing off Officials since we complained about the ref in the euro semi final.
Clearly the ball was on the line. Clear head on head from Woodburn, countless offsides and bind changing in mauls.
We weren't great, we made many mistakes but we were done over by the Refs again!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:14:07:28:03 by CoochieCoo.
Clearly the ball was on the line. Clear head on head from Woodburn, countless offsides and bind changing in mauls.
We weren't great, we made many mistakes but we were done over by the Refs again!
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:14:07:28:03 by CoochieCoo.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Blues (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 00:01
When Santi was waving his arms calling for it on the right how many players did we and Exeter have out wide, couldn't see it on TV.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 00:07
Quote:hasta
It looked like the ball had been grounded on the line 3 times. The players wouldn't have had any time to show elation if it wasn't given as they still had a job to do.
I'm pretty sure they near-enough cheered one of them. Surprised it wasn't reviewed, just because it'd be hugely embarrassing if it were revealed later we had grounded over the line.
Nevertheless it'd have been a fortunate escape...
I suspect the TMO footage will be allowed to autodelete and it'll just be a forum talking point.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:14:00:13:33 by The Bear.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 00:35
I want to stick up for Santi, who is a great player.
Ive have seen comments elsewhere saying he wasn't calling for the ball at the end – he 100 per cent was numerous times and was ignored.
I have seen suggestions that he should have taken a drop goal. We just don't do them at Bath and he tried one in the first half that was nowhere near the posts. The right decision was to go for the try.
He has been accused of not running the attack effectively, but the same thing happened to Donoghue against Bristol – the attack isn't working and it is a system problem.
Santi will come good – a proper pre-season, new attack coach and better integration will bring the best out of him.
Ive have seen comments elsewhere saying he wasn't calling for the ball at the end – he 100 per cent was numerous times and was ignored.
I have seen suggestions that he should have taken a drop goal. We just don't do them at Bath and he tried one in the first half that was nowhere near the posts. The right decision was to go for the try.
He has been accused of not running the attack effectively, but the same thing happened to Donoghue against Bristol – the attack isn't working and it is a system problem.
Santi will come good – a proper pre-season, new attack coach and better integration will bring the best out of him.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 01:07
Santi played alright IMO. We almost always convert those pick and goes on the line, or atleast get a penalty. Drop goals are not a given.
After watching the semi final on Friday, I must admit we do seem to struggle to find space compared to other teams. Definitely a work on for the summer.
After watching the semi final on Friday, I must admit we do seem to struggle to find space compared to other teams. Definitely a work on for the summer.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 05:34
Been thinking the same thing Wynners, but a bit too scared to utter the sacrilege!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 06:59
We were the best team last year by quite a margin I would suggest. We then signed two amazing players in Arundell & Santi. Most would say we had the strongest squad. However it has been a patchy season with a mostly non functioning back linev& over reliance on TdT to get us over the line. After yesrs in the doldrums we have only managed one Prem win & it will only get harder next year. Exeter who had a long period of ascendency are back at top table already & we are slipping back. Not a good feeling.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 07:35
“They have a super-strength there. Why would you run away from it and risk making the error?”
Says Rob Baxter about our pick and drive. Why does such an egregious error as being held up get such a free pass? If a back had missed a 2 on 1 they’d get crucified. It’s most perplexing.
Says Rob Baxter about our pick and drive. Why does such an egregious error as being held up get such a free pass? If a back had missed a 2 on 1 they’d get crucified. It’s most perplexing.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 08:11
Congrats to exeter and esp BCLC. Better team on the day won and their spirit and fortitude was incredible.
Tough gig for them next week but wish them luck. Pleased for baxter, have always liked him and he is building another strong, tough tight squad.
Tough gig for them next week but wish them luck. Pleased for baxter, have always liked him and he is building another strong, tough tight squad.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 08:15
Fair comment Charlie. For all the understandable introspection on ERE, 100% respect for Exeter. An away play-off win is, in many ways, more impressive than winning the Final itself.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 08:23
I have gone for whinging introspection on another thread but really wanted to tip my head to a classic, gutsy away win on this one- as you say away semi final wins are crazily tough to achieve and normally requite massive mental fortitude.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 08:24
We didnt lose because of the ref. This isnt football.
We lost because we couldnt score a single point after 32 minutes. Our only attacking weapon was the front 5 and once they’d blown up at 45 mins, the game was up. There was nothing else.
Some of Saints’ backline moves on Friday were sublime - world class. Our backline looks like theyve never met before.
The whole DG debate is moot - we’re the Champions at home in a semi, we should have put the game to bed by then.
Without TDT we will have to find a way to vary our attack and use the talent we have in the backs.
We lost because we couldnt score a single point after 32 minutes. Our only attacking weapon was the front 5 and once they’d blown up at 45 mins, the game was up. There was nothing else.
Some of Saints’ backline moves on Friday were sublime - world class. Our backline looks like theyve never met before.
The whole DG debate is moot - we’re the Champions at home in a semi, we should have put the game to bed by then.
Without TDT we will have to find a way to vary our attack and use the talent we have in the backs.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 08:42
Quote:Bath Hammer
We were the best team last year by quite a margin I would suggest. We then signed two amazing players in Arundell & Santi. Most would say we had the strongest squad. However it has been a patchy season with a mostly non functioning back linev& over reliance on TdT to get us over the line. After yesrs in the doldrums we have only managed one Prem win & it will only get harder next year. Exeter who had a long period of ascendency are back at top table already & we are slipping back. Not a good feeling.
Obviously we are no longer champions so our standards have slipped and yesterday we gave the game away rather than they won it. However I prefer to reflect on how far we have progressed since the dark days and remember the finals I was at last year which I will never forget.
Were you not totally confident yesterday when we started the pick and go at the end? I know I was and it sounds like we did actually score anyway, small margins.
All we need is a summer of rest and a decent attack coach and we’ll be back to contending again.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:00
This is one of the 'tries' the TMO failed to look at at the end......
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:03
When you consider that the only teams to beat us at home this season are Saints and Chiefs, you have to say that the two best sides are in the final.
We battered Chiefs in the first half yesterday and they are worthy winners for coming out swinging after half time.
Special mention to Alfie for carrying his heart out yesterday – letting him go is likely to be JVG's biggest mistake if you ask me and it wouldn't surprise me if it had undermined morale too.
We battered Chiefs in the first half yesterday and they are worthy winners for coming out swinging after half time.
Special mention to Alfie for carrying his heart out yesterday – letting him go is likely to be JVG's biggest mistake if you ask me and it wouldn't surprise me if it had undermined morale too.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:08
Quote:Pulteneyfan
We didnt lose because of the ref. This isnt football.
We lost because we couldnt score a single point after 32 minutes. Our only attacking weapon was the front 5 and once they’d blown up at 45 mins, the game was up. There was nothing else.
Some of Saints’ backline moves on Friday were sublime - world class. Our backline looks like theyve never met before.
The whole DG debate is moot - we’re the Champions at home in a semi, we should have put the game to bed by then.
Without TDT we will have to find a way to vary our attack and use the talent we have in the
backs.
I agree 100% . Our backline has been awful most of the time but is even worse without Finn & two out of form centres, particularly Lawrence. If he doesn’t regain his form we will be reliant on on avoiding injuries as well as the appoint of that Munster attack coach. Also we won’t have the benefit of TdT. We have to revitalise the back line. Nevertheless scoring no points in the 2nd half in two recent matches is unacceptable.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: warrenball (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:26
Fin has not played with the same amount of free expression he did last year. Not sure if he is playing more to a preset game plan, or is hamstrung by all the relentless box kicking and slow ball from Spencer, but the team this year has certainly not entertained in the way we did last year.
Too many laptops and little red books perhaps, playing to a preordained plan always seems to make it more difficult to adjust to what's happening on the pitch. Same with Borthwick and England, it seemed as if Baxter is reacting to events more quickly than some other coaches and Exeter must be far and away the most improved team in the league this year. Interesting to see what effect good or bad the new investors have on the club, although I understand from Bournemouth supporters that they tend to leave the on pitch stuff to the coaches.
Too many laptops and little red books perhaps, playing to a preordained plan always seems to make it more difficult to adjust to what's happening on the pitch. Same with Borthwick and England, it seemed as if Baxter is reacting to events more quickly than some other coaches and Exeter must be far and away the most improved team in the league this year. Interesting to see what effect good or bad the new investors have on the club, although I understand from Bournemouth supporters that they tend to leave the on pitch stuff to the coaches.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:39
Sorry but this, “we don’t do dropped goals” or “Santi can’t drop” isn't true.
He was 20m out dead in front any 10 let alone an international 10 can drop a goal from 20m from there.
Has everyone forgotten the final play of the first half where Santi attempted a long drop.
Santi Carreras should have had more time at flyhalf I agree but he had a dreadful day and frankly when has he showed the Gloucester form of last season?
Biggest sin was not having a leader on the pitch at a critical time to both direct and question the ref.
Final point if you batter the line repeatedly then there will be gaps elsewhere, variation is all part of attack.
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
He was 20m out dead in front any 10 let alone an international 10 can drop a goal from 20m from there.
Has everyone forgotten the final play of the first half where Santi attempted a long drop.
Santi Carreras should have had more time at flyhalf I agree but he had a dreadful day and frankly when has he showed the Gloucester form of last season?
Biggest sin was not having a leader on the pitch at a critical time to both direct and question the ref.
Final point if you batter the line repeatedly then there will be gaps elsewhere, variation is all part of attack.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Exeforever (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:43
Quote:Dorset Boy
This is one of the 'tries' the TMO failed to look at at the end......
The TMO didn't look because Ridley clearly called the ball "short" at each attempted grounding (of which there were several) prior to the held up call - which is shown to be correct on the TV pictures.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:47
I don’t want to make it about the ref- and good luck and fair play x 100 to Exe- but I’m gutted to see that picture of the ball on the line.
That’s a nailed on try, no doubt. It’s not 50/50 like lots of post match debate about refereeing calls. Our tactics worked. Why on earth wasn’t it checked/ didn’t the TMO step in? I’d just about calmed down and feeling philosophical… but I’m now back to fuming again!
That’s a nailed on try, no doubt. It’s not 50/50 like lots of post match debate about refereeing calls. Our tactics worked. Why on earth wasn’t it checked/ didn’t the TMO step in? I’d just about calmed down and feeling philosophical… but I’m now back to fuming again!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 09:54
So after a night of plenty of anesthetic just sat down and read this thread.
The gentleman who sits next to me at the Rec told me at half time that Exeter had never lost a play-off semi-final! The second half was so predictable and dare I say inevitable.
Our loss of form over the last seven games, five losses and one of the wins was Newcastle, has been shocking.
In football I think I remember that Shankly and Clough would win a trophy and seemingly break up the squad and bring new players in and sell/transfer some of the big names.....all the press and public would think they had gone mad but six months later they were proven right as the star player at his new club was playing like a shadow of his former self. There are a few players who have not played to their former standards.
So in the same vein Ben Spencer and Finn Russell have not played well for six months. If they don't play well it is very hard for the rest of the backs to play well.
Bath have become very predictable and one dimensional........well if you are winning why change things.
But isn't that the whole point.....you should always be trying to expand and develop....knowing "in extremis" you can fall back on the tried and tested.
No one has pointed out that on 39 minutes 50 seconds Santi tried a very long distance DG......it fell short but was on target and the right thing to do. At the end he was screaming and waving his arms to be given the ball for a DG or to pass to the two players on the right who were completely unmarked.
Pick and Go is fine for minutes 1 to say 75.....it is however very dangerous in minute 81 when you are a point behind. The risk of being held up is just too great.
Last match we picked and went 4 or 5 times then a quick pass to an outside player to score.....it would have been so easy.
The gentleman who sits next to me at the Rec told me at half time that Exeter had never lost a play-off semi-final! The second half was so predictable and dare I say inevitable.
Our loss of form over the last seven games, five losses and one of the wins was Newcastle, has been shocking.
In football I think I remember that Shankly and Clough would win a trophy and seemingly break up the squad and bring new players in and sell/transfer some of the big names.....all the press and public would think they had gone mad but six months later they were proven right as the star player at his new club was playing like a shadow of his former self. There are a few players who have not played to their former standards.
So in the same vein Ben Spencer and Finn Russell have not played well for six months. If they don't play well it is very hard for the rest of the backs to play well.
Bath have become very predictable and one dimensional........well if you are winning why change things.
But isn't that the whole point.....you should always be trying to expand and develop....knowing "in extremis" you can fall back on the tried and tested.
No one has pointed out that on 39 minutes 50 seconds Santi tried a very long distance DG......it fell short but was on target and the right thing to do. At the end he was screaming and waving his arms to be given the ball for a DG or to pass to the two players on the right who were completely unmarked.
Pick and Go is fine for minutes 1 to say 75.....it is however very dangerous in minute 81 when you are a point behind. The risk of being held up is just too great.
Last match we picked and went 4 or 5 times then a quick pass to an outside player to score.....it would have been so easy.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:02
Quote:Bath Supporter Jack
No one has pointed out that on 39 minutes 50 seconds Santi tried a very long distance DG......it fell short but was on target and the right thing to do. At the end he was screaming and waving his arms to be given the ball for a DG or to pass to the two players on the right who were completely unmarked.
Pick and Go is fine for minutes 1 to say 75.....it is however very dangerous in minute 81 when you are a point behind. The risk of being held up is just too great.
Last match we picked and went 4 or 5 times then a quick pass to an outside player to score.....it would have been so easy.
Cough cough ....... morning BSJ
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Widcombe boy (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:05
Some very insightful analysis on hear as usual and I agree with the vast majority of it, but would we be having having these conversations had we scored in the last minute, as we had when we beat Exeter earlier in the season ?
Personally I still think the points made are relevant, even had we won yesterday
Widcombe Garçon
Personally I still think the points made are relevant, even had we won yesterday
Widcombe Garçon
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Oldfool (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:17
I personally think it’s a wee bit unfair to lump all the blame on Carreras, the replacement 9 never looks around or takes charge of his pack, for almost a minute the 10 is waving his arms and shouting for it, the 9 either didn’t notice, or decided to ignore him. Granted,Bath have used the pick and go to good effect all season, but, still bad game management from the 9.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:21
Quote:Dorset Boy
This is one of the 'tries' the TMO failed to look at at the end......
Yeah it was really obviously a try as it happened on TV. Frustrating. But we still turned off for the whole rest of the second half.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Buzzer (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:28
Quote:tigerburnie
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
That didn’t age well.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: plong (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:33
Quote:Bath Blues
When Santi was waving his arms calling for it on the right how many players did we and Exeter have out wide, couldn't see it on TV.
Last play: two clear overlap (Deeg and Coka). Last Exe player was inside the posts...
Adopted Players: All of the little blighters!!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Wynners (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:39
The Chiefs players were screaming for conver to come across because they could see as clearly as the rest of us that one or two passes max and we could walk it in
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:47
Frustrating end to the game and to the season - but that’s the way the chips fall sometimes. The Exeter fans in front me said at half time if they score first then it’ll be a real game and so it was.
Maybe lacking that top two inches cost us today. It happens, we’ll be better for the experience.
All in all I don’t think this season has been as big a wash as most make out. We finished second, exactly 1 win away from Saints so we must have been doing something right. We had the highest points difference in the league, the second most bonus points.
I’d like a bit more width next season, and a focus on de-risking ourselves away from Spencer and Finn. All easily achievable.
Since finishing bottom we’ve had: three semi finals, two finals, one title - after the last 10 odd years I’ll take it!
Maybe lacking that top two inches cost us today. It happens, we’ll be better for the experience.
All in all I don’t think this season has been as big a wash as most make out. We finished second, exactly 1 win away from Saints so we must have been doing something right. We had the highest points difference in the league, the second most bonus points.
I’d like a bit more width next season, and a focus on de-risking ourselves away from Spencer and Finn. All easily achievable.
Since finishing bottom we’ve had: three semi finals, two finals, one title - after the last 10 odd years I’ll take it!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 10:56
"We didnt lose because of the ref. This isnt football."
Ironically in football the ref had far less ability to dictate the game. Teams absolutely do lose because of the ref and i think there's a strong case that we did.
That's not to say the reffing team was bias, but if it's true they didn't give away a pen at all in the second half then, yes, they won because of the ref. They almost certainly DID do things that were penalisable, but they clever enough to make them not the things the ref was looking for.
I'm trying not to whinge here too much but I can't help but think we really got on the wrong side of the reffing team. The knock on after the ko, the deliberate knock ons, the Exeter penalty count and the lack of review for our tries. A reffing team that will go back a long way for a knock on but won't review a game changing try? I think we can feel a little hard done by.
Ironically in football the ref had far less ability to dictate the game. Teams absolutely do lose because of the ref and i think there's a strong case that we did.
That's not to say the reffing team was bias, but if it's true they didn't give away a pen at all in the second half then, yes, they won because of the ref. They almost certainly DID do things that were penalisable, but they clever enough to make them not the things the ref was looking for.
I'm trying not to whinge here too much but I can't help but think we really got on the wrong side of the reffing team. The knock on after the ko, the deliberate knock ons, the Exeter penalty count and the lack of review for our tries. A reffing team that will go back a long way for a knock on but won't review a game changing try? I think we can feel a little hard done by.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 11:07
Quote:BathRob
Frustrating end to the game and to the season - but that’s the way the chips fall sometimes. The Exeter fans in front me said at half time if they score first then it’ll be a real game and so it was.
Maybe lacking that top two inches cost us today. It happens, we’ll be better for the experience.
All in all I don’t think this season has been as big a wash as most make out. We finished second, exactly 1 win away from Saints so we must have been doing something right. We had the highest points difference in the league, the second most bonus points.
I’d like a bit more width next season, and a focus on de-risking ourselves away from Spencer and Finn. All easily achievable.
Since finishing bottom we’ve had: three semi finals, two finals, one title - after the last 10 odd years I’ll take it!
I agree Rob, it's a shame for players and supporters that the wheels came off, it's a big disappointment to be missing next week and I'm absolutely gutted. It's taken me until now to read the Forum, been sulking ever since but on reflection we weren't quite good enough this season. However I've enjoyed the last 3 seasons immensely and still believe we will come back the wiser next season. A new approach is needed to refresh our attack and we have to get over the loss of TDT. Easy to say but JVG will be on it.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mini Maximus (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 11:35
Quote:shipwrecked
Sorry but this, “we don’t do dropped goals” or “Santi can’t drop” isn't true.
I do not disagree with you Shipwrecked!
There's a broader point about how the drop goal has become less frequently utilised in the modern game, but our game revolves around Finn and he is not a 'drop goaler' and has even spoken about it.
That means it just isn't a play we run in matches and therefore it's unlikely we train for it, I was instinctively screaming "give the ball to Santi" but on reflection it is a better play when the game is tied and it's a free hit.
Arguably the pick and go was the right move as we have footage showing the ball clearly on the line, even if my personal preference was to spin it wide and let Joe or Henry walk it in.
None of this takes anything away from Chiefs – they deserved the win and I wish them well for the final.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 11:42
Good morning from a sunny and very happy Devon.
I think enough time has passed to post without coming across as a gloating so and so.
At half time I felt we were out of it, The first half from you was excellent with great power, you looked like you had your mojo back. Then, despite me feeling you had tha advantage with your bench, out subs came on and changed the game. Your starting front row were out on their feet, I thought you left it too long to change them, but what do I know. Out brutal pre season paid off, the team are super fit.
Also, I have spoken with many who travelled up yesterday, they all commented on how good the day was and how sporting your fans were, with lots of good natured banter, that's what rugby should be! To all those who've posted on our board and given congratulations here thank you.!
To those few who are blaming the ref, I understand your frustrations but there are loads of decisions throughout a game that could go either way. With the pick and go at the end, for which I had a huge case of déjà-vu, the ball may well have been called short when it touched the line, this probably happens on every pick and go! The ref was right there, with a better view than anyone, until he says try you keep going. Looking at the whole game with Chiefs glasses on I would say I'm extremely doubtful that Henry got his try grounded in the field of play and joe Cs try came from a forward pass. Also, and this is more of a question, with TDTs try he was clearly on his knees, is that not tackle complete? Is he allowed to be driven over the line whilst crawling on his knees? It seems like it should be wrong, even if it isn't!
It was a great game to watch though, result in doubt till the end. Although obviously you will all be massively disappointed, t's great for the league to have these close games. There really isn't much between the top six teams, with any capable of beating each other on a given day. This is much more entertaining than the period when Chiefs and Sarries were dominant. We tended to win home semis with ease, as did sarries, making the whole season a little bit boring for anyone who wasn't a Chiefs/Sarries fan.
You never seemed to recover from the defeat by UBB this year. That is one thing I'd love to see change. The disadvantage in the prem for those teams that went deep in Europe nerds to stop. The calendar really needs sorting, the huge periods with no meaningful games was awful. Playing PRC games in this block doesn't seem to work, us as fans don't really buy into it, and the way clubs approach it varries so much it makes the competition a bit stupid at times. If you don't play first team players in some of those games what do you do with them for two months? This is especially true for those sides without many internationals, like your friends down the road. Bristol have been a completely different team since the six nations, they obviously didn't get right what to do in that gap .
Two semi finals is not at all a bad season for you, I think Saints will win the final anyway, they do look a cut above the rest of us when it clicks for them. I hope I'm wrong but I think a days less rest again may well catch up with us. Several players looked out on their feet at the end, there are rumours that Manny will be back for the final. Which would be a huge shot in the arm for us!
Thanks again for the sporting comments.
I think enough time has passed to post without coming across as a gloating so and so.
At half time I felt we were out of it, The first half from you was excellent with great power, you looked like you had your mojo back. Then, despite me feeling you had tha advantage with your bench, out subs came on and changed the game. Your starting front row were out on their feet, I thought you left it too long to change them, but what do I know. Out brutal pre season paid off, the team are super fit.
Also, I have spoken with many who travelled up yesterday, they all commented on how good the day was and how sporting your fans were, with lots of good natured banter, that's what rugby should be! To all those who've posted on our board and given congratulations here thank you.!
To those few who are blaming the ref, I understand your frustrations but there are loads of decisions throughout a game that could go either way. With the pick and go at the end, for which I had a huge case of déjà-vu, the ball may well have been called short when it touched the line, this probably happens on every pick and go! The ref was right there, with a better view than anyone, until he says try you keep going. Looking at the whole game with Chiefs glasses on I would say I'm extremely doubtful that Henry got his try grounded in the field of play and joe Cs try came from a forward pass. Also, and this is more of a question, with TDTs try he was clearly on his knees, is that not tackle complete? Is he allowed to be driven over the line whilst crawling on his knees? It seems like it should be wrong, even if it isn't!
It was a great game to watch though, result in doubt till the end. Although obviously you will all be massively disappointed, t's great for the league to have these close games. There really isn't much between the top six teams, with any capable of beating each other on a given day. This is much more entertaining than the period when Chiefs and Sarries were dominant. We tended to win home semis with ease, as did sarries, making the whole season a little bit boring for anyone who wasn't a Chiefs/Sarries fan.
You never seemed to recover from the defeat by UBB this year. That is one thing I'd love to see change. The disadvantage in the prem for those teams that went deep in Europe nerds to stop. The calendar really needs sorting, the huge periods with no meaningful games was awful. Playing PRC games in this block doesn't seem to work, us as fans don't really buy into it, and the way clubs approach it varries so much it makes the competition a bit stupid at times. If you don't play first team players in some of those games what do you do with them for two months? This is especially true for those sides without many internationals, like your friends down the road. Bristol have been a completely different team since the six nations, they obviously didn't get right what to do in that gap .
Two semi finals is not at all a bad season for you, I think Saints will win the final anyway, they do look a cut above the rest of us when it clicks for them. I hope I'm wrong but I think a days less rest again may well catch up with us. Several players looked out on their feet at the end, there are rumours that Manny will be back for the final. Which would be a huge shot in the arm for us!
Thanks again for the sporting comments.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 12:08
I was watching on tv, Arundel definitely scored.
Tries after forward passes are common place, at any rate they are after fans shout forward. Usually they aren't by the definition of the laws.
By contrast you got a lot of the green. I've mentioned plenty but I'll add use it vs penalty at scrum time.
Tries after forward passes are common place, at any rate they are after fans shout forward. Usually they aren't by the definition of the laws.
By contrast you got a lot of the green. I've mentioned plenty but I'll add use it vs penalty at scrum time.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 12:09
Right now the anger and upset has dissipated an honest opinion, I am glad we did not win yesterday, simply because we did not deserve to and to be honest I think we have been kidding ourselves to believe we were the 2nd best team in England. The loss of Lee Blackett as feared is simply enormous I cannot recall many attacking moves where I have said WOW. Yesterday we really and truth did not fire a single shot and relied once again on our forwards and box kicking.
Chiefs were there for taking and we opened the door and let them back in and well done to them because they recognised it and took it, whereas we simply did not. Tigers last weekend personally I believe deserved to beat us, it is not just about Finn missing it is the fact we are not running any lines or shapes we just simply do not want to attack yet we have two of the most powerful and potent wingers in the game. Good luck Chiefs we desperately need an attack coach.
Chiefs were there for taking and we opened the door and let them back in and well done to them because they recognised it and took it, whereas we simply did not. Tigers last weekend personally I believe deserved to beat us, it is not just about Finn missing it is the fact we are not running any lines or shapes we just simply do not want to attack yet we have two of the most powerful and potent wingers in the game. Good luck Chiefs we desperately need an attack coach.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 12:11
That's a shame but well done Exeter and see you all next season - enjoy your summer!
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 12:24
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
Two semi finals is not at all a bad season for you, I think Saints will win the final anyway, they do look a cut above the rest of us when it clicks for them. I hope I'm wrong but I think a days less rest again may well catch up with us. Several players looked out on their feet at the end, there are rumours that Manny will be back for the final. Which would be a huge shot in the arm for us!
You're quite right, in the cold light of day we've had a successful season despite never really clicking. Plenty to work on over the summer, lots of young talent coming through, I can't wait for the season to start again.
I'll certainly be cheering on Chiefs next week, despite how much I loathe the Tomahawk chop. Then again, shoe army is even worse.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 13:10
Quote:Dan Wiley
I was watching on tv, Arundel definitely scored.
Tries after forward passes are common place, at any rate they are after fans shout forward. Usually they aren't by the definition of the laws.
By contrast you got a lot of the green. I've mentioned plenty but I'll add use it vs penalty at scrum time.
I don't want to debate every decision with you Dan, we'll never agree!! My point was more when we watch a game with our own teams playing we often see things in totally different ways to how we'd view it in a neutral game. I actually thought you got most of the decisions in the first half, which is often the case when you are on top. Second half the roles were reversed and Chiefs were winning that physical battle.
I think the difference with the scrums was the speed in which they went forward. The first half the ball was often sat a the back of the scrum, available to use, before any secondary shove came on. When the replacement front row came on for us the shove was much sooner, meaning the ball wasn't really available to play. Just my opinion and as I said if things were switched I might be arguing the other way!
One thing is certain, with close games the spotlight is far greater on every decision! It's a shame but understandable, there were at least no massive blunders.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 13:17
This was Sela going over with the final play ... clear head on head from Woodburn ......
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 14:12
They're both really low down as I'm sure many would argue if it was a Bath player making the tackle. I think there's much to be gained by looking at how Bath lost yesterday and regressed over the season as two threads are largely doing, with some honest, balanced posts. Never sure what's to be achieved by highlighting errors by officials. The former you can learn from and improve, the latter - well, mistakes will always be made, decisions are likely to be open to (Often biased) interpretations and you can't change anything anyway.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:14:14:13:13 by TomReagan.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:14:14:13:13 by TomReagan.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 14:14
Officiating will always be up for debate, esp decisions in the last play of a one score game.
What I don't think really is up for debate is:
You shouldnt lose a 16 point half time lead at home
Exeter showed more than enough physical and mental toughness to deserve to squeak through
I am certainly looking at our coaches/ management/players before the officials put it that way.
What I don't think really is up for debate is:
You shouldnt lose a 16 point half time lead at home
Exeter showed more than enough physical and mental toughness to deserve to squeak through
I am certainly looking at our coaches/ management/players before the officials put it that way.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: FiveSticks (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 14:32
Quote:Big Chief Little Chief
Two semi finals is not at all a bad season for you
Actually, it was three - we were also second best in the Prem Cup semi final against Leicester.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 14:52
Quote:FiveSticksQuote:Big Chief Little Chief
Two semi finals is not at all a bad season for you
Actually, it was three - we were also second best in the Prem Cup semi final against Leicester.
True but our young pups were a credit to the club in that game against a v strong Tigers squad.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 14:54
Yeah, he's diving for a try there basically. For some reason you don't get hurt diving for tries so it's fine.
I would liken commenting on the ref to commenting on the conditions. Suppose we played into a strong wind first half then somehow it changed and we played into in the second. It happens. The match would be unfair. The reality is we'd have to adapt our game to it and sure nothing would change as a result of complaining, but surely it wills be fair to comment on it after, or during, the game?
I would liken commenting on the ref to commenting on the conditions. Suppose we played into a strong wind first half then somehow it changed and we played into in the second. It happens. The match would be unfair. The reality is we'd have to adapt our game to it and sure nothing would change as a result of complaining, but surely it wills be fair to comment on it after, or during, the game?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: hasta (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:06
High tackles, deliberate knock ons, ruck offenses are always an interpretation. A missed clearly scored try is different.
That being said we had it in our hands (see the thread title) and should never have allowed ourselves to be in this situation. Agree with those above that in some ways, particularly losing TdT and Alfie, this is a better thing than losing the final as we can look at the whole game plan and see how it needs to evolve.
Congrats to Chiefs who really have turned last season around remarkably well. Although clearly you can never let Rob Baxter change jobs
That being said we had it in our hands (see the thread title) and should never have allowed ourselves to be in this situation. Agree with those above that in some ways, particularly losing TdT and Alfie, this is a better thing than losing the final as we can look at the whole game plan and see how it needs to evolve.
Congrats to Chiefs who really have turned last season around remarkably well. Although clearly you can never let Rob Baxter change jobs
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Rinkadink (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:09
Regardless of anything else, all you had to do to get the W in the end was take the easiest kind of drop goal you can do in a rugby match; under the posts from centre field with forward momentum. Even handed the opportunity by Slade uncharacteristically missing a simple conversion.
For whatever reason that DG didn't happen and that's usually the difference in big matches; how teams cope with pressure.
Was a great watch as a neutral with a natural, healthy dislike of both sides (C'mon Bris!) - unlucky. I thought your fans were class in defeat, especially standing ovation for Skinner who got MOTM. Hopefully next season we'll be having you in the final but all I can see is Bristol scrapping it out to avoid 10th after our post-6 Nations collapse.
For whatever reason that DG didn't happen and that's usually the difference in big matches; how teams cope with pressure.
Was a great watch as a neutral with a natural, healthy dislike of both sides (C'mon Bris!) - unlucky. I thought your fans were class in defeat, especially standing ovation for Skinner who got MOTM. Hopefully next season we'll be having you in the final but all I can see is Bristol scrapping it out to avoid 10th after our post-6 Nations collapse.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:11
It’s clear from the picture above that Bath scored at the end, so question, is the TMO not permitted to interrupt and confirm a try has been scored?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: TomReagan (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:13
Mentioning the conditions, in your example, highlights an element of ill-luck and is also a matter of fact. Refereeing decisions are frequently open to interpretation and you're placing the blame on an individual doing their honest best. They're also an easy and increasingly common scapegoat. Most of our losses this season have been close and I bet if you look at those match threads refs are being if not blamed, then criticised. I'd also argue that it undermines the respect for referees. I'm not a rugby fan with a snobby view of football as I like the two sports equally, but football is now increasingly difficult to referee at the highest levels, let alone amateur stuff. Rugby's miles away from that, but I think some of the assumptions regarding how refs should be respected are being eroded, largely down to social media. It's a forum and things will be discussed, so each to their own. I'm just noting why I think it's not very constructive and can look a bit churlish.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:20
Quote:Dorset Boy
This was Sela going over with the
final play ... clear head on head from Woodburn ......
Mate, grab yourself a cider, or beverage of your choice, go out into the sunshine and relax.
I appreciate you are hurting and frustrated but going to the trouble of getting a still, and posting it on here is rather pointless, nothing will change. That's a very debatable high tackle anyway. If that was given against a player in BBandW you'd be spitting feathers.
Rugby officiating is an impossible task, absolutely no way anybody can get every call right. Even with the benefit of multiple replays we often would still disagree over decisions. Generally, the game was pretty well reffed yesterday, no major howlers. I think the reason some of you are frustrated is you should have won that game, after a dominant first half. The fact you didn't score a point in the second half is not the refs fault. There were errors made by your players and coaches that were far more costly. Look at them, as they can be changed in the future.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:34
Agree BCLC, control the controllable....we got lots wrong , and jvg will be rightly focusing on that. I feel he got a lot wrong tbh and he is no doubt big enough to privately acknowledge that I imagine and go on to get better.
Should make for a rejuvenated , motivated squad and staff in pre season i hope. We need some of our best young prospects to become central to our future success now.
Should make for a rejuvenated , motivated squad and staff in pre season i hope. We need some of our best young prospects to become central to our future success now.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 15:57
If the ball has been grounded and it is missed then that is poor and would have changed the game. Subjective decisions on whether something is a penalty is only a talking point - ref decided. And to be fair to Ridley, he was decisive which is preferable to endless checking and cross-checking.
Nevertheless we were well out-of-form for a while now. It wasnt a secret - we limped into a home semi - and yet we couldn't address the malaise. There are some big losses next season but with that comes an opportunity to build a new generation.
On paper, I don't think we'll match the squad we've just had for a while. But, in some ways, that might be liberating.
Nevertheless we were well out-of-form for a while now. It wasnt a secret - we limped into a home semi - and yet we couldn't address the malaise. There are some big losses next season but with that comes an opportunity to build a new generation.
On paper, I don't think we'll match the squad we've just had for a while. But, in some ways, that might be liberating.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 17:22
I think the losses of TdT and Alfie are a heavily disguised blessing. With them, its "Plan A but better". Without them, we have to address the issues their presence has concealed.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 17:34
Quote:joethefanatic
I think the losses of TdT and Alfie are a heavily disguised blessing. With them, its "Plan A but better". Without them, we have to address the issues their presence has concealed.
I hope we’re able to make that pivot and retain enough power (Stuart’s return, DDP, Green and Richards stepping up) to get us on the front foot and become JvG 2.0. I think that’s our best chance at getting back to the top.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 17:46
Quote:theredseatQuote:joethefanatic
I think the losses of TdT and Alfie are a heavily disguised blessing. With them, its "Plan A but better". Without them, we have to address the issues their presence has concealed.
I hope we’re able to make that pivot and retain enough power (Stuart’s return, DDP, Green and Richards stepping up) to get us on the front foot and become JvG 2.0. I think that’s our best chance at getting back to the top.
Kepu , sela and gyamfi are very exciting athletes. A good pre season of finessing their physiques could make for an exciting season next season. We seriously need these 3 to push on and ber central to the revamp of our front 5.
Hoping richards can pile some more selection pressure on as well either at lock or 6.
Need to manage the finn, santi, tdg, donoghue situation a bit better as well I think.
Also need to realise that as class as spencer is he doesn't have to stay on for 75+ mins every game irrespective of how he and the team are playing, and how well bvdl/, tcs have done.
Some ot the young back 3 players like winters, offiah and griffin could start pushing v hard and I think hennessey has already proved himself this season as someone who will keep lawrence v honest.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 18:07
We have two more seasons of Finn and Ben as currently contracted, at the end of which they will both be nearly 36. We must use them wisely over that time, but it would be great if others developed to push them for selection and provided a succession path.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 18:49
BCLC - I acknowledged very early on, both here and on your site, that had we won at the end it would have been robbery after Chief's second half performance. So no need for your opening condescending comment.
The head on head is clearly down to interpetation and a still like that doesn't give enough perspective, but that still is doing the rounds, so fair IMO to post it for discussion.
The Kepu grounding is clear, but Ridley was badly positioned - behind the line and behind the posts, he had not ability to see where the ball was in relation to the line, so the TMO should, before the final whistle was blown, have said check it. A learning point for Prem rugby officals.
We should never have put ourselves in the position of needing 40 phases at the end to try to get the 2 points we needed.
Exeter have that inner belief at the moment that could well see them win next weekend as well.
The head on head is clearly down to interpetation and a still like that doesn't give enough perspective, but that still is doing the rounds, so fair IMO to post it for discussion.
The Kepu grounding is clear, but Ridley was badly positioned - behind the line and behind the posts, he had not ability to see where the ball was in relation to the line, so the TMO should, before the final whistle was blown, have said check it. A learning point for Prem rugby officals.
We should never have put ourselves in the position of needing 40 phases at the end to try to get the 2 points we needed.
Exeter have that inner belief at the moment that could well see them win next weekend as well.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 19:28
I think the key issue is that because Ridley has blown for full time on a held up call the TMO hasn’t got the license to intervene. Correct me if I’m wrong? Once the whistle has been blown it can’t be called back.
Something to learn for Prem refs, call the held up and then wait for the kick (straight to touch for the win) but it gives the TMO time to check in.
Too be clear though, we lost and nobody to blame but ourselves. Exeter got the win, it was a great game to watch and everyone had fun in the sun!
Something to learn for Prem refs, call the held up and then wait for the kick (straight to touch for the win) but it gives the TMO time to check in.
Too be clear though, we lost and nobody to blame but ourselves. Exeter got the win, it was a great game to watch and everyone had fun in the sun!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Big Chief Little Chief (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 19:42
Quote:Dorset Boy
BCLC - I acknowledged very early on, both here and on your site, that had we won at the end it would have been robbery after Chief's second half performance. So no need for your opening condescending comment.
The head on head is clearly down to interpetation and a still like that doesn't give enough perspective, but that still is doing the rounds, so fair IMO to post it for discussion.
The Kepu grounding is clear, but Ridley was badly positioned - behind the line and behind the posts, he had not ability to see where the ball was in
relation to the line, so the TMO should, before the final whistle was blown, have said check it. A learning point for Prem rugby officals.
We should never have put ourselves in the position of needing 40 phases at the end to try to get the 2 points we needed.
Exeter have that inner belief at the moment that could well see them win next weekend as well.
Not meant as condescending Dorset boy, apologies if it came across that way! It was supposed to be a bit of light hearted humour.
Just think you as Bath fans would be better off looking at your own players and coaches. There will always be controversial ref decisions. Going back over one of multiple decisions in the game is pointless. Claiming decisions are wrong based on a photo taken from a certain angle is not helpful. Especially in an AI world. Being a ref is hard enough without every decision being scrutinised to such a level.
Just to be clear I'm not talking about you or even Bath here, but I feel the constant blaming the ref for losses is not good for our game. Some go in your favour some don't. Look at the reaction of some saints fans after the euro quarter final against yourselves. In a similar pattern to yesterday they were on top in the first half but had no answer in the second half as you took control. Yesterday's game was exactly the same but with you taking the place of saints. As normally happens the team on top get most of the decisions, I felt you had the best of the decisions first half when you were on top.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 20:00
To be honest, as fans, or really makes no difference if at talk about the refs decisions or players performances.
I really know reffing is hard. I actually feel I'm being more accepting of that saying " we were on the wrong side of a refs decisions" than by saying " the refs decisions didn't influence the game" which is clearly nonsense.
I actually think it's something rugby needs to address, but i don't know how. I know people who have been turned off from rugby because they said the refs interpretation suited one team so much that it wasn't an enjoyable watch because whatever one team did they were always up against it. It does seem to happen, one team gets in tune with what the ref does and doesn't want and it pretty much spoils the game.
I'm not sure what the solution is, but if the penalty count was what has been reported in that second half then, well, yeah, of course Exeter looked good and we looked out of ideas.
I really know reffing is hard. I actually feel I'm being more accepting of that saying " we were on the wrong side of a refs decisions" than by saying " the refs decisions didn't influence the game" which is clearly nonsense.
I actually think it's something rugby needs to address, but i don't know how. I know people who have been turned off from rugby because they said the refs interpretation suited one team so much that it wasn't an enjoyable watch because whatever one team did they were always up against it. It does seem to happen, one team gets in tune with what the ref does and doesn't want and it pretty much spoils the game.
I'm not sure what the solution is, but if the penalty count was what has been reported in that second half then, well, yeah, of course Exeter looked good and we looked out of ideas.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 20:30
Those (still) whining about the referee …whats your solution then ?? Every single incident referred to the TMO? That would make NFL look like a fast flowing game and completely destroy the game of rugby.
Accept the fact that in 80 minutes of rugby, some you get, some you dont, but the team that plays the best, wins.
Overall Exeter played the better 80 minutes of rugby yesterday. They deserved the win. Disputing only the decisions you are aggrieved about is a really bad look.
Accept the fact that in 80 minutes of rugby, some you get, some you dont, but the team that plays the best, wins.
Overall Exeter played the better 80 minutes of rugby yesterday. They deserved the win. Disputing only the decisions you are aggrieved about is a really bad look.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: The Bear (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 20:35
Quote:BathRob
I think the key issue is that because Ridley has blown for full time on a held up call the TMO hasn’t got the license to intervene. Correct me if I’m wrong? Once the whistle has been blown it can’t be called back.
We had the commentary team go against us well. If wed have had Healey in the box there's an above zero chance that he'd have called out a head-on-head and we know the TMO has access to the TNT stream inc. commentary.
Just to be clear I'm also not blaming TNT sports for our loss, I'm definitely looking more at our coaching and players.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: inatthebreakdown (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 21:14
Quote:BuzzerQuote:tigerburnie
Good luck you lot, see you at the cabbage patch..................................
That didn’t age well.
As they say, pride comes before a fall.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 21:15
I actually think the involved of other officials is part of the problem. I think a single ref actually has a fairly good feel for what's fair in the game, where things seem to move from that is when the other officials get involved. I think one view of the game is a good thing because rugby is difficult to ref, refs need to hold things in balance and players can react to that, but when another official comes into that and says "this one thing happened: that balance is lost.
I would say that part of my complaint is that we didn't react to the ref. If we're being pointed 6 and they aren't, we're doing something wrong.
But there is a problem here, you get on the wrong side of a rugby ref and it's really hard to win. You're right, I don't know what to do about that because it is causing people to switch off from rugby. "Why is he only pinging that team"
I would say that part of my complaint is that we didn't react to the ref. If we're being pointed 6 and they aren't, we're doing something wrong.
But there is a problem here, you get on the wrong side of a rugby ref and it's really hard to win. You're right, I don't know what to do about that because it is causing people to switch off from rugby. "Why is he only pinging that team"
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 23:18
Rugby is a deeply imperfect game but it does have a recognizable spirit and the refs who ref to the spirit are the best imo. Exeter fully deserved that win and the game of rugby won because they did. Our lessons are a lot closer to home. There are many ways to win a game of rugby but we did not choose any of them with conviction and that cost us. The end of season review needs to start with working out why that was the case and what we can do about it.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: @Hydor18 (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2026 23:37
Quote:Big Chief Little ChiefQuote:Dorset Boy
This was Sela going over with the
final play ... clear head on head from Woodburn ......
Mate, grab yourself a cider, or beverage of your choice, go out into the sunshine and relax.
I appreciate you are hurting and frustrated but going to the trouble of getting a still, and posting it on here is rather pointless, nothing will change. That's a very debatable high tackle anyway. If that was given against a player in BBandW you'd be spitting feathers.
Rugby officiating is an impossible task, absolutely no way anybody can get every call right. Even with the benefit of multiple replays we often would still disagree over decisions. Generally, the game was pretty well reffed yesterday, no major howlers. I think the reason some of you are frustrated is you should have won that game, after a dominant first half. The fact you didn't score a point in the second half is not the refs fault. There were errors made by your players and coaches that were far more costly. Look at them, as they can be changed in the future.
Well said.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 07:29
Anyone seeing these posts on Facebook about the travelling Chiefs players? According to some IFW was in a physical confrontation, people were getting sprayed with beer, all sounds a bit unsavoury. Official complaints made to Exeter.
I know the tv crew showed him leading chants and a few fans near us said they’d seen them in town a bit worse for wear but I’m genuinely surprised if all true.
Again, going off Facebook posts and not seen any hard evidence.
Unfortunately there is also an image of a Bath fan giving double middle fingers to an Exeter player which is also disgusting and totally uncalled for!
I know the tv crew showed him leading chants and a few fans near us said they’d seen them in town a bit worse for wear but I’m genuinely surprised if all true.
Again, going off Facebook posts and not seen any hard evidence.
Unfortunately there is also an image of a Bath fan giving double middle fingers to an Exeter player which is also disgusting and totally uncalled for!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 07:47
Interesting that JvG spoke about Santi being in the pocket for an easy DG, but the ball didn’t get to him. Obviously players on the pitch not thinking clearly at the time.
One surprisingly positive thing from Saturday was our lineout which was good and as far as I can recall 100% successful.
One surprisingly positive thing from Saturday was our lineout which was good and as far as I can recall 100% successful.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Charlieboa1 (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 08:06
Good shout OB, lineout was excellent.
Mixed it up a lot and throwing was sound, irrespective of who was on the pitch.
Encouraging we solved that problem for this game, esp after exeter dismantled the leic lineout.
Mixed it up a lot and throwing was sound, irrespective of who was on the pitch.
Encouraging we solved that problem for this game, esp after exeter dismantled the leic lineout.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Exeforever (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 08:40
Quote:BathRob
Anyone seeing these posts on Facebook about the travelling Chiefs players? According to some IFW was in a physical confrontation, people were getting sprayed with beer, all sounds a bit unsavoury. Official complaints made to Exeter.
I know the tv crew showed him leading chants and a few fans near us said they’d seen them in town a bit worse for wear but I’m genuinely surprised if all true.
Again, going off Facebook posts and not seen any hard evidence.
Unfortunately there is also an image of a Bath fan giving double middle fingers to an Exeter player which is also disgusting and totally uncalled for!
I am sure that if there is any hard evidence of Exeter players misbehaving in public we will learn of it via their sackings. Baxter is notoriously hard on the moral side of things. Nadolo was reputedly sacked for drink driving, another Pacific Islander was let go for a sexual assault charge for which he was either not tried or cleared (I don't remember which) and at least two players were sacked for adultery all in the last 10/15 years - when such behaviour is pretty much the social norm.
I don't do Facebook in partbecause of the complete unaccountability of its contributors.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 08:49
I was thinking yesterday.....
Is Rob Baxter the rugby equivalent of Brian Clough....what do I mean by this?
He has been a fantastic coach/rugby manager for Exeter over many years and has developed several high quality teams. Like BC
He has managed to blend local/UK talent with judicious recruitment from around the world. Like BC
However he never seems to be mentioned as a possible coach/manager for England.
In Brian Clough's case the Establishment at Lancaster Gate were terrified of his possible unconventional approach.
But why is RB never mentioned in an England context.
Has he said that he does not want the job?
Is Rob Baxter the rugby equivalent of Brian Clough....what do I mean by this?
He has been a fantastic coach/rugby manager for Exeter over many years and has developed several high quality teams. Like BC
He has managed to blend local/UK talent with judicious recruitment from around the world. Like BC
However he never seems to be mentioned as a possible coach/manager for England.
In Brian Clough's case the Establishment at Lancaster Gate were terrified of his possible unconventional approach.
But why is RB never mentioned in an England context.
Has he said that he does not want the job?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 08:54
Quote:ExeforeverQuote:BathRob
Anyone seeing these posts on Facebook about the travelling Chiefs players? According to some IFW was in a physical confrontation, people were getting sprayed with beer, all sounds a bit unsavoury. Official complaints made to Exeter.
I know the tv crew showed him leading chants and a few fans near us said they’d seen them in town a bit worse for wear but I’m genuinely surprised if all true.
Again, going off Facebook posts and not seen any hard evidence.
Unfortunately there is also an image of a Bath fan giving double middle fingers to an Exeter player which is also disgusting and totally uncalled for!
I am sure that if there is any hard evidence of Exeter players misbehaving in public we will learn of it via their sackings. Baxter is notoriously hard on the moral side of things. Nadolo was reputedly sacked for drink driving, another Pacific Islander was let go for a sexual assault charge for which he was either not tried or cleared (I don't remember which) and at least two players were sacked for adultery all in the last 10/15 years - when such behaviour is pretty much the social norm.
I don't do Facebook in partbecause of the complete unaccountability of its contributors.
I don’t think the things are comparable from some of the more reliable accounts. Plenty of stuff can count as misbehaving without being a sacking offence. I haven’t heard anything about IFW personally beyond being a bit rowdy (perhaps too far perhaps not I have no idea) and standing in a seated section he didn’t have a ticket for. You can add over lubricated in a public place if you like and none of it looks great but it’s all still miles off drink driving and sexual assault.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 09:58
I think he has been mentioned in connection with England, but I'd agree he's always been the alternative. I do feel the RFU want THEIR man, as in someone that fits their ideas and I'm not sure Baxter is that. Mind you, I can't account for them appointing Eddie on that basis.
It's one reason I'm nervous about moving SB on, yes we'd get someone new in, I've little hope they'd be an inspirational choice and could well be worse.
The other reasons are:
- I don't think SB has actually done that badly, yes a poor 6Ns this year and no, he doesn't play and exciting brand, but that goes back to who they'd get in next.
- Do it after the WC. The right coach MIGHT be able to make England winners by the WC, but its just as likely we'd be about the same or worse. Most of all, get into a decent cycle of coach development and succession management, stop the knee jerk sackings and appointments.
It's one reason I'm nervous about moving SB on, yes we'd get someone new in, I've little hope they'd be an inspirational choice and could well be worse.
The other reasons are:
- I don't think SB has actually done that badly, yes a poor 6Ns this year and no, he doesn't play and exciting brand, but that goes back to who they'd get in next.
- Do it after the WC. The right coach MIGHT be able to make England winners by the WC, but its just as likely we'd be about the same or worse. Most of all, get into a decent cycle of coach development and succession management, stop the knee jerk sackings and appointments.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 11:11
I think Baxter is a tremendous coach but I'd bet my money on Parling being the next England coach before anyone else.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 11:16
Quote:by
I think Baxter is a tremendous coach but I'd bet my money on Parling being the next England coach before anyone else.
Yeah I feel like if Baxter hasn't left Exeter by now it's never going to happen. He's obviously done a great job there and doubt he'd be bad at international level but he's so entrenched in every aspect of that club it would be tough to translate that anywhere but especially for England
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 13:05
What about Dowson and Vestey after the World Cup.....and then we can have Lee Blackett back!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 14:17
Someone just said to me in regard to the Cokanasiga YC that the offence needs renaming. The words Ridley used were 'he runs the risk of' .... which is really not the same as a 'deliberate knock-on'. Cokanasiga was most definitely not deliberately knocking that ball on.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 14:51
I'm one who thinks Baxter loves his farm and is very happy being a big fish in a small pond.
One thing about Baxter is that his current success is being treated as a season long miracle.
The reality is it's a combination of young players he has invested in finally coming good and being given an extra £1M+ to "problem solve" this past season.
The England job doesn't give you the freedom to blood young players en masse and stick with them no matter the results nor the flexibility to go an buy a load of players to solve problem positions.
Also I genuinely think he loves the day to day of club rugby. Lots of coaches don't like the disconnected nature of an International role. McCall would be an example of that too.
The RFU did identify him all those years ago along with Gustard for the successful Pumas tour. I've no idea if further opportunities ever came up or if he decided he was after the top role rather than a coaching one?
One thing about Baxter is that his current success is being treated as a season long miracle.
The reality is it's a combination of young players he has invested in finally coming good and being given an extra £1M+ to "problem solve" this past season.
The England job doesn't give you the freedom to blood young players en masse and stick with them no matter the results nor the flexibility to go an buy a load of players to solve problem positions.
Also I genuinely think he loves the day to day of club rugby. Lots of coaches don't like the disconnected nature of an International role. McCall would be an example of that too.
The RFU did identify him all those years ago along with Gustard for the successful Pumas tour. I've no idea if further opportunities ever came up or if he decided he was after the top role rather than a coaching one?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 15:24
Quote:Optimist
Someone just said to me in regard to the Cokanasiga YC that the offence needs renaming. The words Ridley used were 'he runs the risk of' .... which is really not the same as a 'deliberate knock-on'. Cokanasiga was most definitely not deliberately knocking that ball on.
Probably my most disliked current law. The whole 'not in a position to realistically catch it' doesn't seem logical to me and would rather we just rule on cynical play and call pretty much everything else a standard knock on. Interceptions are exciting so let players try for them. Sure some will bend the rules but I don't think a palm up knock on at halfway is the sort of thing we should be sending players off for.
Was interesting that in the lead up to Cokanasiga's try it looked a lot like de Glanville caught a knock on from Slade that could have been a second yellow if it went to ground. Doubt anyone has been sent off for two slap down offences before. Obviously we scored from that play anyway but fine margains and all that.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Exeforever (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 15:43
Quote:BathRob
Anyone seeing these posts on Facebook about the travelling Chiefs players? According to some IFW was in a physical confrontation, people were getting sprayed with beer, all sounds a bit unsavoury. Official complaints made to Exeter.
I know the tv crew showed him leading chants and a few fans near us said they’d seen them in town a bit worse for wear but I’m genuinely surprised if all true.
Again, going off Facebook posts and not seen any hard evidence.
Unfortunately there is also an image of a Bath fan giving double middle fingers to an Exeter player which is also disgusting and totally uncalled for!
Interesting quote from the Guardian report:
"Northampton’s task will also be made tougher if one or both of Ethan Roots and Manny Feyi-Waboso are fit to bolster Exeter’s matchday squad, the latter having had a drink thrown over him as emotions bubbled over in the stands at Bath."
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 17:11
Quote:theredseat
Probably my most disliked current law.
I don't mind the law so much as I mind the farcically disproportionate punishment.
If the attacking team can be determined to be 100% certain to score a try if it weren't for the knock-on, then give them the try in line with where it happened. No need for a YC, no need for a free extra 2 points. You've already given them the benefit of the doubt that the player would catch the ball, and that's a bonus in itself.
If they can't be 100% sure they would have scored a try, then give a Yellow Card and a scrum.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 20:41
Quote:Optimist
Someone just said to me in regard to the Cokanasiga YC that the offence needs renaming. The words Ridley used were 'he runs the risk of' .... which is really not the same as a 'deliberate knock-on'. Cokanasiga was most definitely not deliberately knocking that ball on.
The law refers to a player having a "reasonable expectation" of gaining possession. Unfortunately if you flap at the ball with one hand, whether up or down, you dont meet the "reasonable" test = Yellow card
The YouTube video from Rugby Analyst sums it up perfectly. (link below). It's a bit click baity for sure - "the dumbest final play in Prem history", but its really ugly to watch that last few minutes and it shows just how we relied on the power game on Saturday.
Next year we have to tap into the undoubted talent in the backline - we cannot keep trying to run through teams.
[youtu.be]
r
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2026 21:55
That didn't do a lot for me. Clearly santi didn't want the drop, he's not a regular 10, are drop goals a part of his game, he fluffed a shot to nothing earlier. The drop goal wasn't the only option of winning that game. Honestly, if the 10 doesn't want it, it's 50:50. Trying to draw a pen seems at least as a legitimate option. Trying to score a try wide when it was on is not a bad option. Going through the forwards had worked well for us.
I think you can criticise santi for a fair amount in that game, he should have done better going wide in those phases, but that guy just seems obsessed with drop goals.
I think you can criticise santi for a fair amount in that game, he should have done better going wide in those phases, but that guy just seems obsessed with drop goals.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 07:02
Was the result much of a surprise? We have played Exeter 5 or 6 times during the season & our only win was at the Rec when we rescued a win by rumbling over after about 40 phases. That suggests that on a one to one basis they are definitely the better team & worthy finalists. The big question is whether we can reverse that situation next season or will the gap get bigger. The latter will be the case unless we address the backs issue.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 07:07
I can’t remember the last time that outside of George Ford anyone dropped a goal. They’ve gone massively out of fashion, and as much as we complain now there is no guarantee he would have got it.
It is what it is: a valuable lesson in what it takes to remain the top team in the Prem. Next year we need to adapt and bring the backs in more, that’s on the coaching team. I imagine it’s already on JvGs radar as a work on.
Reality is we’ve been spoiled the last few years, and that’s why this one feels bitter. But the beauty is we always have next year to dream about!
It is what it is: a valuable lesson in what it takes to remain the top team in the Prem. Next year we need to adapt and bring the backs in more, that’s on the coaching team. I imagine it’s already on JvGs radar as a work on.
Reality is we’ve been spoiled the last few years, and that’s why this one feels bitter. But the beauty is we always have next year to dream about!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 07:36
Dan is correct. Santi is not a drop goal man. I think there were several factors in the failure to score.
First must have been a belief that, having gone through nearly 40 phases against Exeter before (and a large number v Leicester the previous week), patience and persistence would prevail in the end- especially as the ball had "brushed" the line at least once -maybe as many as three times without being clearly seen by officials.
Second, it seems Santi did want the ball -presumably to go wide. I suspect had TCS been at 9 he would have demanded the ball and passed. Then the result would have been down to the quality of passing.
Third, I suspect we had not practised what else to do in that scenario. Clearly, with fly halves who don't do drop goals that would not have been practised. So-why not Cam Redpath or TdG? Or - what about passing to a forward on the charge a few metres wide of the ruck?
What we got was two teams being incredibly stubborn. Bath stubbornly stuck to their pounding frontal assault, Exeter to their defence-incredibly in all that they did not concede a penalty. That in the end was I think the fine margin difference.
PG
First must have been a belief that, having gone through nearly 40 phases against Exeter before (and a large number v Leicester the previous week), patience and persistence would prevail in the end- especially as the ball had "brushed" the line at least once -maybe as many as three times without being clearly seen by officials.
Second, it seems Santi did want the ball -presumably to go wide. I suspect had TCS been at 9 he would have demanded the ball and passed. Then the result would have been down to the quality of passing.
Third, I suspect we had not practised what else to do in that scenario. Clearly, with fly halves who don't do drop goals that would not have been practised. So-why not Cam Redpath or TdG? Or - what about passing to a forward on the charge a few metres wide of the ruck?
What we got was two teams being incredibly stubborn. Bath stubbornly stuck to their pounding frontal assault, Exeter to their defence-incredibly in all that they did not concede a penalty. That in the end was I think the fine margin difference.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 08:19
Endless discussion regarding the merits of attempting a drop goal at the death is not what it should be about in my view. We need to produce an all round performance which involves the backs as much as the forwards. We should not go through two matches in which no points are scored in the second half because we don’t continue having forwards dominance. That has to change & the drop goal conundrum is not the answer, though it does need to be addressed as it should be part of the weapons at our disposal.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 09:19
Quote:P G Tips
Dan is correct. Santi is not a drop goal man.
PG
We are talking 20m out dead in front in the final minute and you are suggesting that an international 10 needs to be a dropped goal regular. It wasn't a spur of the moment thing he had 40 phases to get ready.
Everyone is being far too polite here. JvG made some serious mistakes, Santi had a really poor game and hasn't performed all season (not just the drop). OL is a shadow of his former self (not recovered). Negative criticism is needed to move on, just say it.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 09:42
Yeah, I would say that even 20m drop goal at the end of an 80mn match, under massive pressure both from the situation and Exeter (who were undoubtably up for it), is something of a risk. Throw in not being the regular 10 and playing with not the regular 9 and asking for the coordination is a big ask. If that 9 puts it a little high, a little to the left, with the time Santi would be given by Exeter, that's it, we've lost.
On the other hand, we had every chance of drawing a pen. Yes, the ref was a bit shy and Exeter very disciplined but through 40 phases all it takes is one of them to take a step offside or lose their feet in a ruck, maybe a bit of head contact. Add to that, while we didn't get awarded it, we must have been very close to scoring. But for a some tired handling we have at least a couple of good opportunities going wide.
Not going for the drop simply isn't something Santi should be criticized for. It was an option that he didn't want to take. He didn't try a chip through either, that's probably an option, not a great one, get it wrong and its game over, but then so is the drop goal.
That said, there is plenty that you could hold him to account for. It wasn't a good game for him. For me he gets a lot leeway because he's not been our regular 10, but if you're going criticize him, do it for something legitimate.
On the other hand, we had every chance of drawing a pen. Yes, the ref was a bit shy and Exeter very disciplined but through 40 phases all it takes is one of them to take a step offside or lose their feet in a ruck, maybe a bit of head contact. Add to that, while we didn't get awarded it, we must have been very close to scoring. But for a some tired handling we have at least a couple of good opportunities going wide.
Not going for the drop simply isn't something Santi should be criticized for. It was an option that he didn't want to take. He didn't try a chip through either, that's probably an option, not a great one, get it wrong and its game over, but then so is the drop goal.
That said, there is plenty that you could hold him to account for. It wasn't a good game for him. For me he gets a lot leeway because he's not been our regular 10, but if you're going criticize him, do it for something legitimate.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 09:45
Read my post again sw. It is about those final moments, not about JvGs selection, nor Santi’s or Ollie’s form.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:16:09:49:01 by P G Tips.
PG
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:16:09:49:01 by P G Tips.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 10:06
Quote:BathRob
I can’t remember the last time that outside of George Ford anyone dropped a goal. They’ve gone massively out of fashion
I guess there aren't many stats down the years around DGs attempted/scored, but other than Jannie de Beer and Jonny Wilkinson have they ever been THAT much IN fashion?
It's always been an extremely difficult skill - very good kickers miss place-kicks, and a DG is probably 10 x harder to complete than a place-kick given all of the variables and moving parts involved, so it's unsurprising that it's only ever a last resort type of play.
There was a bit of a craze for taking DGs on penalty advantage - but with the weird extension of advantage to mean 'you are now free to play on until you score or come to a standstill at which point we'll bring you back 3 minutes and 20 metres for your penalty', the 'shot to nothing' is actually just to go through the hands or try a grubber/chip/cross-kick.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 10:07
Quote:P G Tips
Read my post again sw. It is about those final moments, not about JvGs selection, nor Santi’s or Ollie’s form.
PG
Yes unfair directed at you PG, but I feel some of the comment recently is about making excuses and unnecessary protection of individuals. It's hiding or even denying the fact of the matter which is clearly not the way forward. We have been impacted by outside influences but until we recognise what needs sorting we can't move on.
I actually think we are on the way down and need to resolve several issues, we were affected by Borthwick’s inability to retain coaches which led to Lee Blackett’s removal from our team. That was a disaster. Ollie Lawrence came back too early. We have needed a big bruising lock all season. Jacques du Plessis was never replaced. Signing Santi Carreras just hasn’t worked.
How many of these issues are currently resolved for next season. Add in fitness, tiredness and multiple key injuries its not looking good.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 10:16
All are indeed important considerations for end of season review.
I dispute though that we are on the way down. We need to learn from our 3 final defeats and find new ways of playing and winning.
I understand a “full and frank exchange of views” among the whole squad has already happened.
PG
I dispute though that we are on the way down. We need to learn from our 3 final defeats and find new ways of playing and winning.
I understand a “full and frank exchange of views” among the whole squad has already happened.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 10:40
I can see both sides but I'm with Dan here. I really don't mind our approach. It worked v Exeter in January. Finn didn't call for the drop goal then and with hindsight, I'm glad he didn't because Greene went over and we didn't run the risk of missing a drop kick. This time, it didn't work out and so with hindsight maybe we should've given the DG a go, but I'm actually ok with the reasons why we didn't.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 11:19
Quote:OptimistQuote:BathRob
I can’t remember the last time that outside of George Ford anyone dropped a goal. They’ve gone massively out of fashion
I guess there aren't many stats down the years around DGs attempted/scored, but other than Jannie de Beer and Jonny Wilkinson have they ever been THAT much IN fashion?
It's always been an extremely difficult skill - very good kickers miss place-kicks, and a DG is probably 10 x harder to complete than a place-kick given all of the variables and moving parts involved, so it's unsurprising that it's only ever a last resort type of play.
There was a bit of a craze for taking DGs on penalty advantage - but with the weird extension of advantage to mean 'you are now free to play on until you score or come to a standstill at which point we'll bring you back 3 minutes and 20 metres for your penalty', the 'shot to nothing' is actually just to go through the hands or try a grubber/chip/cross-kick.
Hmm, I'm thinking of one example in particular
Freddie Burns
In the final minute and in the Prem cup final
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 11:37
I suspect the vast majority of those calling for the drop goal and suggesting it was easy, have never attempted a drop goal in their lives, let alone at the end of a draining match.
Certainly none of Saturday's TNT pundits have ever dropped a goal.
As Opti says, it is a very difficult skill.
Santi has aparently never scored one.
Finn has only every scored one.
It is very different from a restart drop kick.
Jonny W, Jannie de Beer, George Ford are very much the exceptions.
Santi was calling for the ball to pass out wide which was probably what we should have done with the benefit of hindsight, although had Ridley been better positioned to see Kepu score, the discussion would be moot.
But we should not have let ourselves end up in the position of needing all those phases at the end to try to rescue the result..
Certainly none of Saturday's TNT pundits have ever dropped a goal.
As Opti says, it is a very difficult skill.
Santi has aparently never scored one.
Finn has only every scored one.
It is very different from a restart drop kick.
Jonny W, Jannie de Beer, George Ford are very much the exceptions.
Santi was calling for the ball to pass out wide which was probably what we should have done with the benefit of hindsight, although had Ridley been better positioned to see Kepu score, the discussion would be moot.
But we should not have let ourselves end up in the position of needing all those phases at the end to try to rescue the result..
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 11:39
Gaz59 you’ve probably made my point in that you had to go back 4 years…
And I don’t mean that in a rude way, I mean they just aren’t happening in that must win match situation…
Actually I tell a lie, Marcus Smith vs Ireland. Although possibly also 4 years ago?
My point stands I think - Drop goals just aren’t the thing anymore, and given our superiority in grinding over the line over the last three years the forwards probably did the right thing to a point, and then someone should have spun it out either way for a walk in.
And I don’t mean that in a rude way, I mean they just aren’t happening in that must win match situation…
Actually I tell a lie, Marcus Smith vs Ireland. Although possibly also 4 years ago?
My point stands I think - Drop goals just aren’t the thing anymore, and given our superiority in grinding over the line over the last three years the forwards probably did the right thing to a point, and then someone should have spun it out either way for a walk in.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 11:53
Quote:Dorset Boy
I suspect the vast majority of those calling for the drop goal and suggesting it was easy, have never attempted a drop goal in their lives, let alone at the end of a draining match.
Certainly none of Saturday's TNT pundits have ever dropped a goal.
As Opti says, it is a very difficult skill.
Santi has aparently never scored one.
Finn has only every scored one.
It is very different from a restart drop kick.
Jonny W, Jannie de Beer, George Ford are very much the exceptions.
Can't agree DB, if it's under pressure with a charge down, wide out, muddy, no time to execute perhaps but we are talking dead in front, no pressure, no distance. Carerras is the Argentinian 10.
The point is that it wasn't even attempted, its a known tactic and we had just replaced our 9. Probably wrongly. It's just one of a string of errors.
Make a drop with 4 points and watch how many players suddenly become competent.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 12:03
Yep agree with BathRob that the Freddie Burns example shows how rare they are. Smith's v Ireland was on penalty advantage, so that completely changes the dynamic for the kicker.
I am interested in the fact that BVDL was picked on the bench for the game. I can't prove it, of course, but I think TCS might have fed Santi for a drop goal attempt, however I think we only got through 40 phases and onto their line because of the snap on BVDL's service. So swings and roundabouts.
Kind of gets overlooked how good we were in those final few minutes to get within an on-the-ball TMO of a score from 25m out. Santi throws a miss to Joe on the right when if we'd just gone through the hands, with Redpath drawing the last man, I think Joe or TDG scores. Also Kepu definitely scores. Just watched it again in full speed. So clear. And also first time I've seen Lawrence go straight up to Ridley one the "held up" call and ask him to review the head contact. Aaaaaaaah well.
I am interested in the fact that BVDL was picked on the bench for the game. I can't prove it, of course, but I think TCS might have fed Santi for a drop goal attempt, however I think we only got through 40 phases and onto their line because of the snap on BVDL's service. So swings and roundabouts.
Kind of gets overlooked how good we were in those final few minutes to get within an on-the-ball TMO of a score from 25m out. Santi throws a miss to Joe on the right when if we'd just gone through the hands, with Redpath drawing the last man, I think Joe or TDG scores. Also Kepu definitely scores. Just watched it again in full speed. So clear. And also first time I've seen Lawrence go straight up to Ridley one the "held up" call and ask him to review the head contact. Aaaaaaaah well.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 12:13
Personally I don’t think it mattered if it was Spencer, TCS or BVDL at SH on Saturday and even Finn at FH. That ball wasn’t coming out of the forwards!!
The pick and go has become a bit of an obsession over the season with good results and understandably with losing LB when you did.
The game was lost during a 2nd scoreless half (it was only Slade’s poor kicking that had you only a point behind), the use of the bench, even the selections over the last month or so.
The pick and go has become a bit of an obsession over the season with good results and understandably with losing LB when you did.
The game was lost during a 2nd scoreless half (it was only Slade’s poor kicking that had you only a point behind), the use of the bench, even the selections over the last month or so.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 12:53
Quote:shipwrecked
Make a drop with 4 points and watch how many players suddenly become competent.
If you make it worth 4 points you might get a few more attempts but not necessarily an increase in success.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 13:03
Quote:OptimistQuote:shipwrecked
Make a drop with 4 points and watch how many players suddenly become competent.
If you make it worth 4 points you might get a few more attempts but not necessarily an increase in success.
If the incentive is worth it you practice it and include it in your arsenal though don't you? Of course if you enjoy watching props trying to knock themselves out time after time that's another matter.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 14:50
Quote:shipwrecked
Of course if you enjoy watching props trying to knock themselves out time after time that's another matter.
I very much don't. But I don't think DGs are the direct alternative. Trusting your backs to work with 20 odd metres of spare space is the option I'd personally favour.
As I keep banging on - coming away with 0 points from being 50 centimetres from the line doesn't seem to be something that causes any recriminations for individuals, whereas if it's a back who fails to convert that position into points they are punished by not being trusted with the ball for the next 6 games.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 21:54
It's what the forum is for .....to discuss all aspects of the team we support. But I am with some others here, in that I cannot get any enthusiasm to get worked up about the last play in isolation. Yes, it was a one dimensional and predictable (and it failed) But what worries me is that could also describe most of the rest of the match from a Bath perspective.
We seem to have regressed into something similar to the plan England used, to such awful effect, in the 6N. Occasionally some rugby breaks out, but predominantly it truck it up and box kick it. Rinse and repeat. Sure, it helps if you have a superhero at tighthead, but I wonder if we got suckered into the style because TDT was such an amazing player.
Rugby has moved on from this tactic. England learnt it the hard way and tried to adapt in the last game in France. I sincerely hope our coaching team, will use the summer to adapt. We have a world class back line - lets use it to play, not chase
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:16:21:55:54 by Pulteneyfan.
We seem to have regressed into something similar to the plan England used, to such awful effect, in the 6N. Occasionally some rugby breaks out, but predominantly it truck it up and box kick it. Rinse and repeat. Sure, it helps if you have a superhero at tighthead, but I wonder if we got suckered into the style because TDT was such an amazing player.
Rugby has moved on from this tactic. England learnt it the hard way and tried to adapt in the last game in France. I sincerely hope our coaching team, will use the summer to adapt. We have a world class back line - lets use it to play, not chase
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:16:21:55:54 by Pulteneyfan.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Benisjammin (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2026 22:47
I've been thinking about how tired Spencer looked at the end of the first half (I think Baxter spotted how tired the whole team looked). He does revert to the box kick tactic when his energy drops. Maybe we should have taken him off sooner. Maybe he needed more rest over the season. He carried the side in the first few rounds and shouldered more effort than perhaps he would have if BvDL hadn't been injured. He's an absolute fighter though - got to respect the effort.
There are loads of small reasons why the title defence was unsuccessful but I think losing LB and the broader impact of some key injuries may have been the bigger ones in my opinion.
There are loads of small reasons why the title defence was unsuccessful but I think losing LB and the broader impact of some key injuries may have been the bigger ones in my opinion.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Hammer (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 06:05
Endless discussion regarding the merits of attempting a drop goal at the death is not what it should be about in my view. We need to produce an all round performance which involves the backs as much as the forwards. We should not go through two matches in which no points are scored in the second half principally because of a decline in forwards dominance. That has to change & the drop goal conundrum is not the answer.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 06:25
Quote:Benisjammin
I've been thinking about how tired Spencer looked at the end of the first half (I think Baxter spotted how tired the whole team looked). He does revert to the box kick tactic when his energy drops. Maybe we should have taken him off sooner. Maybe he needed more rest over the season. He carried the side in the first few rounds and shouldered more effort than perhaps he would have if BvDL hadn't been injured. He's an absolute fighter though - got to respect the effort.
There are loads of small reasons why the title defence was unsuccessful but I think losing LB and the broader impact of some key injuries may have been the bigger ones in my opinion.
Agree with this point - the squad as a whole has been managed fantastically this season apart from Spencer and Finn. They’ve been picked more often than we sometimes expected, and then also tend to play 70+ minutes. They rightly looked exhausted come end of season, and little niggle injuries started becoming a factor.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 07:24
I didn't get to see it live and have only just managed the chill to watch the extended highlights
Having seen a few SM clips of Santi waving his arms in the air and me as a former 10/12 I had formed a solid view that we really ballsed it up not getting the ball out wide instead of the last unsuccessful lunge for the vital 50 cm
Then I watch that full 40 phase move. We were making significant inroads at pretty much every one of the first 25 - 30. So it is easy to see why the collective 1 to 9 were so in the zone and focused on driving for the line with just 3 metres for glory
Pretty much same situation had turned out great against Saints in the big euro semi so why not here again?
And the answer for me, is the exceptional strength and positioning of the Exeter players to get hands underneath the ball and to hold it up. That was very high level rugby skill that won it not our failure
But we will learn, I'm sure
In compensation I get to go and see The B52s and Devo at the O2!
Having seen a few SM clips of Santi waving his arms in the air and me as a former 10/12 I had formed a solid view that we really ballsed it up not getting the ball out wide instead of the last unsuccessful lunge for the vital 50 cm
Then I watch that full 40 phase move. We were making significant inroads at pretty much every one of the first 25 - 30. So it is easy to see why the collective 1 to 9 were so in the zone and focused on driving for the line with just 3 metres for glory
Pretty much same situation had turned out great against Saints in the big euro semi so why not here again?
And the answer for me, is the exceptional strength and positioning of the Exeter players to get hands underneath the ball and to hold it up. That was very high level rugby skill that won it not our failure
But we will learn, I'm sure
In compensation I get to go and see The B52s and Devo at the O2!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 08:45
Was that holding up particularly skillful. Looks to my like they just fell back and tried to get add much of themselves under the ball as they could.
One on one there can be a decent bit of skill in holding up, if there's three of you its not that hard.
I really don't like it as a law in terms of the general direction of rugby, why are you allowed to play the player and the ball on the ground, preventing them from placing it, off your feet because it's over the line?
Anywhere else you've broken at least three laws and the result is you get to kick them back to half way.
And I disagree that it's particularly skillful in most cases.
The goal line drop out has totally failed in stopping pick and drive, we know that more than anyone else. Why not give the attacker the advantage? That would stop the repetition of the same dull stuff over and over again and get rid of this awkwardness in the laws.
One on one there can be a decent bit of skill in holding up, if there's three of you its not that hard.
I really don't like it as a law in terms of the general direction of rugby, why are you allowed to play the player and the ball on the ground, preventing them from placing it, off your feet because it's over the line?
Anywhere else you've broken at least three laws and the result is you get to kick them back to half way.
And I disagree that it's particularly skillful in most cases.
The goal line drop out has totally failed in stopping pick and drive, we know that more than anyone else. Why not give the attacker the advantage? That would stop the repetition of the same dull stuff over and over again and get rid of this awkwardness in the laws.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Ali1969 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 08:48
I don't get all the hype about the drop goal - conclusive evidence that the decision to pick and go was right - Kepu shown to be over the line and grounding the ball - the fact it was not rewarded is another matter and once again raises the debate about TMO's and their intervention following on from the TMO debacle in the Euro semi.
Andrew Jackson was quick enough to alert Ridley to a very dubious knock on by Arundell which at best went lateral IMHO yet the TMO remit is to alert the referee to a clear and obvious issue...now the Kepu grounding is clear and obvious - Ridley was on the wrong side of ruck and by the time he got round Chiefs had pushed Kepu back into play. I am just guessing that Jackson just bottled it given the magnitude of the call.
I still remain adamant Bath of last season would never had let Chiefs back into that match - I totally agree that the euro semi scuttled our season and showed as Saints found out that you cannot compete in both cups with our salary cap and squad size - Lee Blackett and Will Stuarts injury had an enormous impact on our squad this season.
We now need to decide and stick with a Lee B replacement and give them every opportunity to bed in and get some attacking back into our squad because IMHO we have just not fired any attacking shots this season and may explain some of Ollie Lawrence's issues and instead just relied on forward power and box kicking, what a complete waste of talents like Finn, Santi and the rest of our backline IMHO.
Andrew Jackson was quick enough to alert Ridley to a very dubious knock on by Arundell which at best went lateral IMHO yet the TMO remit is to alert the referee to a clear and obvious issue...now the Kepu grounding is clear and obvious - Ridley was on the wrong side of ruck and by the time he got round Chiefs had pushed Kepu back into play. I am just guessing that Jackson just bottled it given the magnitude of the call.
I still remain adamant Bath of last season would never had let Chiefs back into that match - I totally agree that the euro semi scuttled our season and showed as Saints found out that you cannot compete in both cups with our salary cap and squad size - Lee Blackett and Will Stuarts injury had an enormous impact on our squad this season.
We now need to decide and stick with a Lee B replacement and give them every opportunity to bed in and get some attacking back into our squad because IMHO we have just not fired any attacking shots this season and may explain some of Ollie Lawrence's issues and instead just relied on forward power and box kicking, what a complete waste of talents like Finn, Santi and the rest of our backline IMHO.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dr.bath1865 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 09:12
Found myself awake at 5am this morning again mulling over why Santi threw the long miss across Redpath and Ollie to JCok, when hands would have put JCok or TDG in the corner. Or why JCok then tucked the ball under his arm instead of drawing the last defender and putting TDG away. If you break down the 40 phases, we had SO many chances, and not just in the final throes.
Reassuring to logon this morning and read/hear that, like me, plenty on ERE still are very far from over it!
Reassuring to logon this morning and read/hear that, like me, plenty on ERE still are very far from over it!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 09:19
I think the problem the TMO had is he'd have been contradicting the ref, who called it short. Whereas for the knock on off the KO and the deliberate knock on I don't think the ref said anything.
As I said, you could all but get rid of refs having to make calls on held up, at least just make it so that if its held up, let the attacking team play it back into play and go again, a held up try is pretty anticlimactic in most circumstances.
If WR got their stuff together and actually managed to deal with head contact you could almost get rid of TMOs entirely. It's not like they are adding consistency with knock ons and forward passes.
As I said, you could all but get rid of refs having to make calls on held up, at least just make it so that if its held up, let the attacking team play it back into play and go again, a held up try is pretty anticlimactic in most circumstances.
If WR got their stuff together and actually managed to deal with head contact you could almost get rid of TMOs entirely. It's not like they are adding consistency with knock ons and forward passes.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 09:23
Quote:Dr.bath
Reassuring to logon this morning and read/hear that, like me, plenty on ERE still are very far from over it!
I guess we've not got much else to talk about? I'm not that excited about the final. Either we crown Saints, which is probably the right outcome, or we announce some "Champions." It's marginally more interesting than the world cup but its close.
You're right though, the miss pass, and a poor miss pass at that, was disappointing. Still we retained the ball and went again. There were other chances.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Old Bath Tub (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 11:03
Not really over the loss , were we really that poor in the second half to not score a point or Exeter just to good all round, perhaps change the thread title to ‘It was in our hands’ !
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Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Smooothsides (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 11:09
Quote:Dan Wiley
Was that holding up particularly skillful. Looks to my like they just fell back and tried to get add much of themselves under the ball as they could.
One on one there can be a decent bit of skill in holding up, if there's three of you its not that hard.
I really don't like it as a law in terms of the general direction of rugby, why are you allowed to play the player and the ball on the ground, preventing them from placing it, off your feet because it's over the line?
Anywhere else you've broken at least three laws and the result is you get to kick them back to half way.
And I disagree that it's particularly skillful in most cases.
the law question is fair enough, but if holding it up is as simple as you make it sound, why don't teams do it more often? tries are scored much more often than they're held up on the goal line
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 11:27
I'd say they seem to occur pretty often. I mean how many TMO reviews do we get questioning the grounding? It's usually more of a minor error by the attacking team, not realizing the grounding isn't on, rather than the defence doing anything special. Being kicked back to your halfway line from being an inch off the ground is pretty depressing so teams have got good at not going over the line until they are sure. As an aside that feel like its created more endless pick and gos rather than fewer. you might go for it if the result was a scrum 5, but handing over the ball you'd rather not.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Optimist (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 12:20
I wonder if a simple tweak to move away from pick and gos (though it's not a given that that's what people prefer) would be a more stringent application of latching-on as an offence - basically meaning that players have to go on their own?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 12:42
Have never been a fan of Held up Law and agree it’s not particularly skilful to fall backwards under the ball.
Also agree that attacking teams have adapted and don’t necessarily go for a grounding as much because of this.
The law was all about World Rugby’s agenda of depowering the Scrum. How often do you see scrum 5 attacking ball nowadays!!
Not sure the constant pick and go is safer than before the law change either as perhaps Woodburn’s tackle (legal or not) demonstrates!!
IMHO TMOs should be used for Foul Play only, yes the odd try will happen with a Forward Pass (they happen with a TMO - Jackson Quins v Tigers Big Game) and the odd side will gain a throw to a Lineout but that is preferable to a stop/start game of American Football!!
Plus the ability to celebrate a Try in real time and not wait until the restart wondering if TMO is going to interfere with a minor infringement.
If we continue with the current TMO involvement then it should be CLEAR and OBVIOUS and not need multiple slow motion replays.
Attacking teams have the advantage and stick with the Referee!
Also agree that attacking teams have adapted and don’t necessarily go for a grounding as much because of this.
The law was all about World Rugby’s agenda of depowering the Scrum. How often do you see scrum 5 attacking ball nowadays!!
Not sure the constant pick and go is safer than before the law change either as perhaps Woodburn’s tackle (legal or not) demonstrates!!
IMHO TMOs should be used for Foul Play only, yes the odd try will happen with a Forward Pass (they happen with a TMO - Jackson Quins v Tigers Big Game) and the odd side will gain a throw to a Lineout but that is preferable to a stop/start game of American Football!!
Plus the ability to celebrate a Try in real time and not wait until the restart wondering if TMO is going to interfere with a minor infringement.
If we continue with the current TMO involvement then it should be CLEAR and OBVIOUS and not need multiple slow motion replays.
Attacking teams have the advantage and stick with the Referee!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 12:51
Agree Simon - although I would qualify “stick with the referee” the expectation that said referee consults his ARs. If they can see something he cannot (e.g. a grounding in those sort of circumstances) they should be allowed to say so.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 13:11
Quote:👍P G Tips
Agree Simon - although I would qualify “stick with the referee” the expectation that said referee consults his ARs. If they can see something he cannot (e.g. a grounding in those sort of circumstances) they should be allowed to say so.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 13:26
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: theredseat (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 15:38
Quote:by
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
I think that's to be expected in a way. Ridley is good but no ref is going to be keen on giving a game deciding pen in that situation if they can avoid it - moreso for a semi final. Once he's set his stall out to not blow up for marginal stuff it needs to be nailed on to get a whistle. None of that is a criticism of Ridley by the way - just how these things tend to unfold.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 19:41
Agreed - and I don’t think anything was so obvious that he could have blown anyway.
Except, and I’ve made this point a few times, blowing for full time immediately after blowing for the held up didn’t allow any further discussion or decisions to be made. If he’d blown for held up, and then paused and waited to see if TMO wants to bring his attention to anything it would have been much better.
Except, and I’ve made this point a few times, blowing for full time immediately after blowing for the held up didn’t allow any further discussion or decisions to be made. If he’d blown for held up, and then paused and waited to see if TMO wants to bring his attention to anything it would have been much better.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: seatonian (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2026 20:22
Bath could not get any field position to attack in the second half . Could the fact that Exeter had ten penalties and Bath none during that period be a factor? Not going to comment on head to head not reviewed by TMO!!
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Woodpecker (IP Logged)
Date: 18/06/2026 12:59
Quote:by
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
thats prety unusual
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:18:13:00:25 by Woodpecker .
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 18/06/2026 17:14
Quote:WoodpeckerQuote:by
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
thats prety unusual
And they really didn't have any time to do it, even if captain on the field [who was that?] had thought of it
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: by (IP Logged)
Date: 18/06/2026 17:49
Quote:WoodpeckerQuote:by
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
thats prety unusual
Happened against us at Franklin Gardens enabling Saints to win the game.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 18/06/2026 20:13
You'd think there would be a protocol to get the ok from the whole reffing team before pointing to the changing rooms?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 12:45
Quote:byQuote:WoodpeckerQuote:by
TNT sports have a clip of that final passage of play on their instagram, showing the 40 odd phases we went through.
Ridley was clearly adamant that he wasn't going to penalise Exeter, numerous offsides, illegally slowing the ball down etc. But I do think some onus falls onto the Bath players, why didn't they interrupt him before the final whistle asking him to review the grounding or the final tackle.
thats prety unusual
Happened against us at Franklin Gardens enabling Saints to win the game.
It was a Fin Smith kick that won the game then wasn't it?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 13:33
Yes. A Penalty for head contact.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 13:49
Quote:That was waved on by the ref and then the TMO came in to give the penalty.P G Tips
Yes. A Penalty for head contact.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 15:33
Yes. I think the ref did not see it fully, then concentrated on the drop goal attempt and was alerted by the TMO.
Nailed on penalty so no complaint. The question though is why a head contact at the death in a semi was not checked.
PG
Nailed on penalty so no complaint. The question though is why a head contact at the death in a semi was not checked.
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 16:00
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: gaz59 (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 16:11
Quote:P G Tips
Yes. I think the ref did not see it fully, then concentrated on the drop goal attempt and was alerted by the TMO.
Nailed on penalty so no complaint. The question though is why a head contact at the death in a semi was not checked.
PG
Presumably the TMO in the semi either didn't see it or didn't alert Ridley before whistle
Either way, there should be a change that requires ref to check with TMO before blowing for full time
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Mike the Taxi (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 16:33
Quote:Treble
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Do you not have the equivalent of 'End' or 'Ctrl-End' buttons on your Mobile? I don't have a mobile, so I don't know.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2026 17:08
Quote:Treble
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Done
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: joethefanatic (IP Logged)
Date: 20/06/2026 00:31
Quote:Mike the TaxiQuote:Treble
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Do you not have the equivalent of 'End' or 'Ctrl-End' buttons on your Mobile? I don't have a mobile, so I don't know.
Mine's even more annoying. It goes to the last post, waits until you've just started reading it and then flicks you back to the top. Its been doing this for years, irrespective of phone model or operating system. I tend to just sigh now. And yes I'm on the mobile site.
... IMHO, of course.
Now in Honolulu
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: tigersimon (IP Logged)
Date: 20/06/2026 07:49
Can’t celebrate a try because TMO may intervene!
Now can’t celebrate the end of a game until the TMO says so!?
Now can’t celebrate the end of a game until the TMO says so!?
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 20/06/2026 08:55
Quote:joethefanaticQuote:Mike the TaxiQuote:Treble
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Do you not have the equivalent of 'End' or 'Ctrl-End' buttons on your Mobile? I don't have a mobile, so I don't know.
Mine's even more annoying. It goes to the last post, waits until you've just started reading it and then flicks you back to the top. Its been doing this for years, irrespective of phone model or operating system. I tend to just sigh now. And yes I'm on the mobile site.
When you get to the last post put your finger on it and it stays! Rather than scrolling down use the slider on the right hand side top and slide it down to the bottom. Two work arounds!
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:21:08:51:31 by CoochieCoo.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 20/06/2026 14:52
Quote:P G TipsQuote:Treble
Can the mods get this off a sticky please? It's a drag having to scroll down from the beginning of the thread on my mobile to see the latest post. Thanks
Done
PG
Thanks PG, I've just come on and lo it still takes me to the start of the thread 😁
Incident in press from Exeter match
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 12:28
I see in today's press, Feyi-Waboso has confirmed an incident in the crowd from the semi-final (excerpt pasted below as behind a paywall)
I wonder if the club will be investigating fully as there are very clear images of the alleged culprit(s) ?
In celebrating his team’s remarkable comeback with his non-playing team-mates in the stands, Feyi-Waboso had a gin and tonic thrown over him by a fan who proceeded to push him. The Exeter player subsequently tore the supporter’s shirt.
“One of the fans when we were celebrating after, he was leaving at the time,” Feyi-Waboso said. “He was absolutely fine during the match, but as soon as he was leaving, he chucked a drink over me, pushed me and threw the cup in my face. What can you do apart from rip his shirt? What can you do?”
I wonder if the club will be investigating fully as there are very clear images of the alleged culprit(s) ?
In celebrating his team’s remarkable comeback with his non-playing team-mates in the stands, Feyi-Waboso had a gin and tonic thrown over him by a fan who proceeded to push him. The Exeter player subsequently tore the supporter’s shirt.
“One of the fans when we were celebrating after, he was leaving at the time,” Feyi-Waboso said. “He was absolutely fine during the match, but as soon as he was leaving, he chucked a drink over me, pushed me and threw the cup in my face. What can you do apart from rip his shirt? What can you do?”
Re: Incident in press from Exeter match
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 12:42
It was covered in the match thread, really doesn’t need another.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: CoochieCoo (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 12:52
Merged.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 12:56
In answer to “What can you do apart from rip his shirt? What can you do?” Maybe be the bigger person and act like the professional sportsman you are rather than resort to assault as retaliation.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 13:12
Thats an interesting take on it ... but it's not really the point I was trying to make.
Not suggesting that anyone that spills a pint at a game should be banned for life .... just interested in whether other fans think this oversteps the line. I understand you dont.
Not suggesting that anyone that spills a pint at a game should be banned for life .... just interested in whether other fans think this oversteps the line. I understand you dont.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 13:26
To be clear I don’t condone what the fan did either.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 13:27
You'd hope Bath would ban the young "gentleman" for a season but I doubt they will.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 13:33
How is this any different to this incident wit Jonny Hill
Tyler Offiah
Opinion is based on assumptions, whereas fact is based on observation or research.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: OutsideBath (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 14:14
Quote:PaulHerox
You'd hope Bath would ban the young "gentleman" for a season but I doubt they will.
Why do you think Bath won't act? Seems like your usual anti Bath sentiment that you constantly spout on this site.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 14:21
Quote:PaulHerox
You'd hope Bath would ban the young "gentleman" for a season but I doubt they will.
Why, Feyi Waboso is representing his club what's more he is training to be a doctor? Hardly a role model example.
Are you familiar with the expression referring to "throwing stones in a glass house?"
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 17:38
Worrying that this has happened twice now - First the Hill incident and now this.
Not saying the players are blameless, but we’ll end up with a reputation that we really don’t want.
Also seen some compelling posts on Facebook claiming that IFW and co. we’re out of line so suspect it’s somewhere in the middle the truth lies.
Not saying the players are blameless, but we’ll end up with a reputation that we really don’t want.
Also seen some compelling posts on Facebook claiming that IFW and co. we’re out of line so suspect it’s somewhere in the middle the truth lies.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 18:58
I've never been to an away game and managed to provoke a home supporter to assault me .... it does make you wonder just how bad it got in that corner last Saturday.
I just hope this isnt the thin end of the wedge ... and the start of the end of mixed crowds. It would be good for rugby all round for the club to be seen to be making it clear, that it's not tolerated.
I just hope this isnt the thin end of the wedge ... and the start of the end of mixed crowds. It would be good for rugby all round for the club to be seen to be making it clear, that it's not tolerated.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 21/06/2026 19:08
I don't know, I've seen some people get pretty drunk and be a bit high spirited, particularly in the terrace on a Friday night. It's something to keep an eye on but we're not taking 80s football here.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Treble (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 15:06
I watched the game on TV and the cameras did show IFW and his mates engaging in their tuneless chant that some find offensive. Perhaps that was a trigger point? Over refreshed, rowdy folk get on people's nerves but it's everywhere in sport now. Some folk just don't know how to behave in public.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 20:10
Quote:shipwrecked
Feyi Waboso is representing his club what's more he is training to be a doctor? Hardly a role model example.
What an odd and factually incorrect post.
He was there as a fan in the general stand not as an Exeter Chiefs player.
What possible bearing has his career choice got to do with it? He's out having fun and didn;t do anything illegal it's no more his responsibility to be a role model than it is the young man who threw a drink at him. IFW was being noisy he may have even drunk a few but so had many in the crowd is it ok for away supporters to chuck drink over them? I suspect not.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 20:16
If he was an away supporter Paul, he would be a Chiefs supporter wouldn't he? That would be an interesting take on the incident.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 20:34
Quote:PaulHeroxQuote:shipwrecked
Feyi Waboso is representing his club what's more he is training to be a doctor? Hardly a role model example.
What an odd and factually incorrect post.
You may disagree but it is factually correct. As a club player he will be representing his club as long as he remains on the payroll.
You may have a different opinion but a Doctor, Lawyer, Judge, Police Officer, MP represent their profession at all times.
It's about being a responsible individual, you don't agree clearly. That comment reflects on yourself.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathMatt53 (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 21:23
Nothing more than 2 young men who have been drinking in the sun and have their blood up from the excitement of the game have a bit of argy bargy. Yes its not a great look for either of them but its not an uncommon event (and wasn't in our day either). Not worth dwelling on too much, I'm sure they both felt a bit sheepish about it the next morning.
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
[24/25 adoptee: Francois van Wyk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Francis Allen (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2026 21:56
I'm of the opinion that "off duty" professional players should retain a bit of decorum at all times in the public domain. I'm not criticising the Chiefs concerned because I only saw glimpses on the tv but I suspect they attracted some criticism from adjacent supporters. A few years ago on the last game of the season I was at Worcester close to a group of off duty Bath players whose drunken behaviour was disgraceful. It left me fuming and ashamed to be a Bath supporter. Too often in professional sport you see examples of sportsmen behaving in a anti-social way, many that make big headlines and are an embarrassment for all concerned. Why they want to attract attention, god only knows although alcohol usually is to blame. Personally I loved JVG's policy of having all the off duty players dressed in club colours, that's the way to show your support for your teammates.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dorset Boy (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 07:26
@Paul Herox - there were reports on FB from a lady who felt very threatened by the actions of the Exeter group, to the point she was questioning ever to return. There were other comments about the threatening nature of the Exeter group. And throwing of drinks was not one way.
I believe that complaints have been made to the club from those sitting in the area.
IF-W aparently didn't have a ticket to be in the area.
I believe that complaints have been made to the club from those sitting in the area.
IF-W aparently didn't have a ticket to be in the area.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: BathRob (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 07:57
Agree Dorset Boy - on Facebook there are several allegations of rude and drunken behaviour from the non-playing Exeter players, including aggression towards young stewards who were attempting to move them from an area they didn’t have tickets for.
The throwing of a drink is also unacceptable, but this goes way further than “Player A has a few drinks and gets a little loud”
Finally, I’m firmly in the “you represent your club everywhere you go” camp, and that kind of behaviour (plus the drunken behaviour at Worcs described above) is unacceptable at a game where you could be seen by young fans. I suspect this will all be swept under the carpet and played down as per the BBC article where he laughs it off, but IMO it should be dealt with harshly.
The throwing of a drink is also unacceptable, but this goes way further than “Player A has a few drinks and gets a little loud”
Finally, I’m firmly in the “you represent your club everywhere you go” camp, and that kind of behaviour (plus the drunken behaviour at Worcs described above) is unacceptable at a game where you could be seen by young fans. I suspect this will all be swept under the carpet and played down as per the BBC article where he laughs it off, but IMO it should be dealt with harshly.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 15:34
I emailed the club a few days ago asking if they were planning to investigate. Had a call from a representative today that was very reassuring. He/She was (totally understandably) not able to share all the details but - they have investigated the incident and both clubs are taking learnings and action as a result from it. In addition Bath Rugby are also actively looking at steps they can take to try and prevent this sort of incident in the future, from reoccurring.
Have to say, I was very impressed and reassured at the way it's being handled.
Have to say, I was very impressed and reassured at the way it's being handled.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 15:54
Thanks Pulteneyfan
Do you know if there is to be any public communication about the incident? I think a summary of action/learnings taken would be good to quieten speculation.
Most club staff will be on holiday now, so I have not been surprised that there has been no announcement, but did you get the imprssion there could be?
PG
Do you know if there is to be any public communication about the incident? I think a summary of action/learnings taken would be good to quieten speculation.
Most club staff will be on holiday now, so I have not been surprised that there has been no announcement, but did you get the imprssion there could be?
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Pulteneyfan (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 16:24
I didnt hear anything specifically about that. My (totally amateur) guess is that could be tricky to get into the weeds of such an event, without involving legal people.
I suspect we might hear about changes for all matches next season - I wonder if the ground/ticket rules may be tightened up and maybe some plans to take more action a bit sooner but as I say, thats just a guess.
I suspect we might hear about changes for all matches next season - I wonder if the ground/ticket rules may be tightened up and maybe some plans to take more action a bit sooner but as I say, thats just a guess.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: P G Tips (IP Logged)
Date: 25/06/2026 16:28
Thanks again.
PG
PG
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 26/06/2026 14:42
*
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:26:14:55:43 by PaulHerox.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2026:06:26:14:55:43 by PaulHerox.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Dan Wiley (IP Logged)
Date: 26/06/2026 14:46
Touche.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: PaulHerox (IP Logged)
Date: 26/06/2026 14:47
To be fair we seem to have decided that there's nothing to see with one of our players assaulting a cricket security guard which is obviously infinitely worse than what we're talking about here and makes me despair of my club. Maybe there's additional detail missing from what's on record but for there to be no public action sends out a horrendous message.
Re the Bath/Exeter game its a shame that it sounds like there were issues on the day with both sets of supporters. One of the joys of rugby is that you can sit with opposition supporters and generally have a good time.
Maybe I'm just lucky but in 30 years plus I'm yet to have a bad experience at a game. I hope this isn't something becoming more prevalent in our game.
Re the Bath/Exeter game its a shame that it sounds like there were issues on the day with both sets of supporters. One of the joys of rugby is that you can sit with opposition supporters and generally have a good time.
Maybe I'm just lucky but in 30 years plus I'm yet to have a bad experience at a game. I hope this isn't something becoming more prevalent in our game.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: shipwrecked (IP Logged)
Date: 26/06/2026 15:26
Quote:PaulHerox
To be fair we seem to have decided that there's nothing to see with one of our players assaulting a cricket security guard which is obviously infinitely worse than what we're talking about here and makes me despair of my club. Maybe there's additional detail missing from what's on record but for there to be no public action sends out a horrendous message.
Well said.
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: dcsh (IP Logged)
Date: 02/07/2026 13:17
Finn has still not recovered from the calf injury, guess that puts to bed any discussion that he could have played. [www.bbc.co.uk]
Re: "IT'S IN OUR HANDS”...BATH V EXETER.
Posted by: Bath Supporter Jack (IP Logged)
Date: 03/07/2026 12:31
Very occasionally, like once a season, we have an incident like the one above.
I must be fortunate...or go around with my eyes shut, but in 20+ years off attending almost every home game at the Rec I have never seen any sort of incident.
I must be fortunate...or go around with my eyes shut, but in 20+ years off attending almost every home game at the Rec I have never seen any sort of incident.
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