Bath 26 Chiefs 18

Bath end their losing run in brilliant sunshine at the Rec.

Chiefs Away Woes Continue

Bath was the destination for Exeter’s 3^rd away trip on the spin, in a fixture which was postponed from Boxing Day. In stark contrast to what would have undoubtedly been a wrap-up warm kind of afternoon at the Rec in December, we were blessed with 20 degree heat and some gorgeous April sunshine.

It is imperative for the Chiefs that they get a foothold in away games early and not give the opposition an early opening score, as happened after 35 seconds at London Irish. Hearts were in mouths as Junior Polu’s box kick was charged down by Claasens, fortunately Steenson was there to clear up.

Despite being under pressure for the first few minutes, it was Steenson who got the first shot at goal, but the normally metronomic fly-half pushed his kick wide. However, when James comically made a mess of a 22 drop-out, and Bath were subsequently penalised at the resulting scrum. Steenson this time made no mistake (0-3)

The Chiefs added to their lead a few minutes later as Arscott, who had another impressive game at full-back, chipped over Vesty and held off Banahan to score. Steenson was again off target with the conversion, but no-one could deny the Chiefs were good value for their lead (0-8). Sadly, in spite of a good spell of possession and many opportunities, Exe were unable to add to their lead as first Naqelevuki was felled just short of the line by James’ last-ditch tap tackle; and then Baxter passed inside to Mercer rather than taking the tackle and recycling the ball. On such margins are games won and lost and Bath took advantage of some Exe ill-discipline at the breakdown to reduce their arrears to 6-8 with half-time approaching. Having held onto the ball for many phases, Banahan eventually crashed over to give the home side a 13-8 advantage at the break.

This obviously inspired the home side as they scored the first try of the second half, with Matt Carraro dotting down having been relased by Banahan’s off-load. James’ 3^rd penalty a few minutes later meant that Bath had stormed to a 21-8 lead, the Chiefs having been penalised at the scrum. Steenson replied with a penalty of his own minutes later to make it 21-11.

Things went from bad to worse for Exeter as first Scaysbrook (somewhat harshly IMHO) and then Tui were sent to the sin-bin following repeated infringements at the scrum and generally getting on the wrong side of referee Mr. Fox. The home support cried for a penalty try, but to their credit the Chiefs held firm and turned the ball over.

With a numerical disadvantage, the Chiefs’ still kept playing. However, Banahan ripped the ball from Sireli and Bath broke, scrum half Classens ending off a fine breakaway. (26-11) Exe replied at the death with a fine finish from Matt Jess to leave the final score 26-18.

On reflection, this was another game in which the Chiefs had their chances, only to not take advantage of them. We didn’t do ourselves any favours with a poor spell before and after half-time, you simply cannot afford to do that at this level and Bath punished us. As mentioned I thought Scays’ yellow was a little harsh, but then again I’m not privy to what the referee may have said to the team.

The hope is that we learn the lessons from each of these 3 away defeats and whatever the result is at Orinoco Flow that we become harder to beat away from home. This, along with the continued importance of coming away with something whenever we get into the opposition’s 22, will help bring us closer to the top teams. I have no doubt that with some shrewd signings and the whole squad having premiership experience, that we will be more competitive on the road next year. SP is already a hard place to come and win, and long may that continue. In Rob we trust etc.

A special mention, as always, to the travelling tribe. Although scattered in different places they outsang the home support and I very much hope that gives the players heart on tough away trips.

All in all, a great day out despite the result. A lovely city and an enjoyable day out, and those Bath fans that remained behind and I spoke to in the marquee made us feel welcome. The Tribe had the last word on the day’s proceedings, however, as injured England captain Lewis Moody was set upon by a raiding party of tomahawk wielding warriors. Don’t mess with the Exe.

Attentions now turn to Sarries this Saturday, which is described as a ‘home fixture,’ whatever that is.

See you there!

Matt