An England Six Nations contender raises ratings after Bath Victory
In Round Nine of the Gallagher Premiership, Bath Rugby defeated Harlequins 25–17 to earn a bonus point. Their thrilling start, which included two tries each from Ollie Lawrence and Finn Russell, guaranteed them the top spot come Christmas. Rugby fans worldwide are called to book Six Nations 2024 tickets from our online platform ticketing. co. Rugby fans can book England Six Nations Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.
Upon a lineout well inside Bath’s 22-yard line, they were awarded their first attacking opportunity. As Miles Reid strayed too far wide, magician Marcus Smith got between him and Niall Annett, securing a magnificent solo effort. Afterward, Bath appeared to have scored a try of the season following a superb break by Will Muir from deep within his half, which he then passed inside to Ben Spencer.
He for some reason was able to cling onto from behind his back. Max Ojomoh crossed the whitewash. But Bath recycled the ball five meters away. However, under pressure from Danny Care, who was thrown to the bin for serving the man on the ground and forcing the knock-on, Spencer declined the ball on the deck, giving Bath the points and an 8–5 lead at halftime.
Highlights from the recent match
Even though it was considerably calmer, the second half was just as thrilling. Bath’s five-meter lineout was made possible by an early penalty against Quins. Annett’s pass to Elliott Stooke set up the maul, which gave Bath their second try through the big lock.
Despite losing a scrum deep within the Quins half, the Blue, Black, and White were on a rampage and had the momentum. The visitors were unable to clear their lines, and the hosts quickly scored try number three. After Tyrone Green’s misplaced kick let Matt Gallagher go deep into the Quins 22 and through multiple phases. Bath missed the mark and Annett found Joe Cokanasiga, who streaked past Nick David and Lynagh to score his second.
Now that the score was twenty to twelve, the visitors had to alter their strategy and decided to take a more aerial approach. After Harlequins’ two quick penalties against Bath gave them their five-meter lineout. They responded magnificently, with Jack Walker scoring his 50th try for his new team against his old one.
Russell dropped the goal
Russell’s drop-goal attempt struck the uprights, and the visitors appeared to be displaying their attacking flair as Smith sprinted back with the ball. However, Smith ultimately opted to hack the ball away, only to find Russell, who responded with an incredible 50-22. Bath regained their mauling ability and drove over to score a bonus point through a touchdown by Miles Reid.
Bath will be sitting atop the table at Christmas for the first time since 2003, but despite a late try by James Chisholm, they were left empty-handed after Smith’s second missed conversion. The performances of the Bath players are examined in further detail by rugby reporter Sam Jess.
15 Matt Gallagher – 8
Having returned to the starting lineup, Gallagher provided calmness during the tumultuous game at the Rec. Some excellent catches beneath the high ball in challenging circumstances, as well as some excellent offensive efforts when the opportunity arose. He rarely makes a mistake when kicking, which offers Bath a strong platform thanks to his presence in the backfield.
Joe Cokanasiga – 9
both force and speed. The winger, who has scored four tries in his last three games, got on the scoreboard early on following a superb linebreak from Ollie Lawrence. The winger is still in top shape despite having a rough start to his kicking career with a few sliced attempts. Rugby fans can book England vs Ireland Tickets on our website at exclusively discounted prices.
Bath is distributing the ball a lot more these days, and Cokanasiga has been outstanding with huge carries whenever he gets the ball. He broke down the touchline and over three defensive players to score his second try of the game on one of those carries. He went through a difficult period a few years ago, but his tenacity has enabled him to develop into a genuine threat.
Ollie Lawrence – 7
Lawrence was actively involved in the festivities following his recognition as November’s Premiership player of the month. His ability to attack creates space for his teammates, especially those on the wings. Cokanasiga scored easily in the first minutes thanks to a brilliant line from Russell, who completed the easiest two-on-one.
Max Ojomoh – 7
Max Ojomoh was his aggravating self with some beautiful involvements in his first start since the second of the month. Andre Esterhuizen, his opponent, hardly got a sniff during the game, so that’s the highest credit you can offer him. That is a true sign of defensive duty and character.
Will Muir – 7
Every opportunity the horse had, he would gallop around the field. Although Muir was not directly involved in the assault, the other wing was responsible for the two backtries. Bath almost had the try of the season after a spectacular 50-meter break, but Danny Care had other plans. Muir, a calm player who can play both defense and kicking. It may want to consider not having any plans for February.
Finn Russell – 8
Once again, the magician was superb. During the first play of the game, the fly-half gave up a ball to Lawrence, which allowed the defense to get by him. The center then broke free and scored the game’s first try when Cokanasiga crossed in the corner. Russell proved his mettle in the kicking department as the rain pelted the Rec, and some outstanding 50-22s gave Bath control of the ball.
Following a few weeks during which the players appeared to be at odds with each other as the Scottish international adjusted to life at Bath. The team now appears to be cohesive under Finn. The fly-half created numerous attacking opportunities with a series of excellent long and late passes.
Ben Spencer – 8
Heading for England? England ought to be asking him to don the number nine shirt following yet another outstanding performance. His team has a lot going forward thanks to his excellent management and offensive mentality. When the offense picks up speed, his leadership and kicking possibilities become evident; when it slows down.
He goes and knows what passes to deliver. Additionally, he almost contributed to the try of the season when he caught Will Muir’s pass from behind his pack. Spencer would have won the game if Care hadn’t dived on him after the tackle was made.
Beno Obano – 7
Obano had a good game. Obano held his own against a formidable pack of Quins. His side was able to maintain the lead thanks to a few monster carries. Obano may not have been the star today. But he consistently produces and is perhaps one of the most crucial players for this Bath team because the alternatives behind him are of a lower caliber.
Niall Annett – 7
Annett produced a solid performance in just his fourth league start of the year. The majority of the lineout was sound, and he was there to clean up when the ball wasn’t just perfect. Additionally, he contributed to Cokanasiga’s second try of the game by staying in the wide channels and making a fantastic pass that allowed the winger to cross the line.
Thomas du Toit – 7
Du Toit was more than adequate after he returned to the starting lineup. During a turnover and a few large monster collisions, the Tank provided his side respite. Even though he was taken out in the first half, the prop continued to play brilliantly.
Elliott Stooke – 8
How great is it that the fan favorite is back at Bath? He gives the team more personality. The side’s continued success on the park depends on his fundamentals. He earned it with a rolling maul try after making so many runs and sweeping up a lot of loose balls.
Given that RG Snyman has officially decided to leave the Rec and sign with Leinster, Johann Van Graan should be persuaded to provide him with a longer contract than the one that expires at the end of the current campaign.
Charlie Ewels – 7
Returned to his rightful place. Ewels suffered greatly under Hooper, especially in 2021–2022, when he carried the burden of leadership on his big shoulders; yet, his Bath career may have been spared due to time spent recovering from injury.
He’s currently getting better at finishing the prerequisites and reiterating his qualifications. A crucial moment that gave the Rec a tremendous roar was a 30-meter break down the pitch.
GJ van Velze – 8
Only making his second start of the season, GJ van Velze was outstanding. Even though he is nearing the end of his career, the South African was a dynamic presence in the park, showcasing his physicality with some notable performances.
Van Velze intercepted the ball and entered the Quins 22 thanks to a brilliant read around the ruck. The flanker continued to play despite the game being played at full speed for most of the first half. Demonstrating his high level of fitness.
Miles Reid – 7
Reid had a difficult start after misreading Marcus Smith and drifting too wide. It let the playmaker for the Harlequins enter the game and sprint off for an incredible single try. But he settled into the game and forced two turnovers, one of which was committed by Quins just inches from the line. The flanker then scored a try to secure all five points, rewarding him for his hard work.
Alfie Barbeary – 7
In recent years, Bath has missed having a character like Barbeary. Every carry he makes gives Bath momentum. As he either carries for several meters or requires the help of two defenders to be taken down. Another strong performance by the eight.
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