Bath Rugby Triumphs in Premiership Cup, Ending 17-Year Trophy Drought

Bath Rugby ended their 17-year trophy drought in spectacular fashion, overpowering Exeter Chiefs with a 48-14 victory to claim the Premiership Rugby Cup. This triumph marks their first silverware since the European Challenge Cup in 2008 and their first domestic trophy in 29 years.

First Half: A Tight Contest

The match began with a fiercely contested first half. Exeter Chiefs took an early lead with tries from Christ Tshiunza and Scott Sio. However, Bath responded swiftly with tries from Tom Carr-Smith and Joe Cokanasiga. A penalty from Ciaran Donoghue nudged Bath ahead, leading 17-14 at halftime.

Second Half: Bath's Dominance

The second half saw Bath's clinical execution and physicality take center stage. Thomas du Toit and Tom Dunn powered their way over the try line, extending Bath's lead. Ewan Richards and Louis Schreuder added further tries, with Dunn securing his second of the match, capping off an impressive final quarter.

Looking Ahead

This victory could be the first part of a potential treble for Bath, who currently sit at the top of the Premiership and are in the last 16 of the European Challenge Cup. The team's performance at Sandy Park showcased their depth and determination, signaling a strong finish to the season.

Teams

Exeter Chiefs: Sio, Yeandle (c), Iosefa-Scott, Molina, Tshiunza, Roots, Vermeulen, Fisilau, Townsend, Skinner, Hodge, Tua, Hawkins, Brown-Bampoe, Wyatt.

Replacements: Frost, Blose, Street, Pearson, Capstick, Cairns, Haydon-Wood, Rigg.

Sin-bin: Yeandle (56).

Bath: Cordwell, Spandler, Verden, Jeanes, Richards (c), Green, Staddon, Barbeary, Carr-Smith, Donoghue, McConnochie, Butt, Redpath, Cokanasiga, Emens.

Replacements: Dunn, Obano, Du Toit, Reid, Pepper, Schreuder, Ojomoh, Coetzee.