Bath Crush Pau with Seven-Try Spectacle to Secure Challenge Cup Quarter-Final Berth

Bath Rugby delivered a masterclass in attacking rugby as they overpowered Pau 49-24 at Stade du Hameau to advance to the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals. The Premiership leaders showcased their championship credentials with a clinical first-half performance that saw them secure a bonus point before halftime.

Match Highlights:

• First-half blitz: Tries from Will Muir, Joe Cokanasiga, Beno Obano, and Josh Bayliss established a 28-10 halftime lead
• Disciplinary drama: England flanker Sam Underhill received a 54th-minute red card for a high tackle
• Resilient response: Bath scored three more tries despite being reduced to 14 men (Tom Dunn, Ruaridh McConnochie, Miles Reid)
• Perfect kicking: Fly-half George Donoghue converted all seven tries (14/14 kicks)

Turning Point: Underhill's dismissal for a head-high collision with Pau's Thibault Debaes momentarily gave the hosts hope at 35-17, but Bath's superior fitness and tactical discipline crushed any comeback attempts.

Post-Match Reactions

• Bath Captain Ben Spencer: "The character shown after the red card proves our squad depth. We're building something special this season."
• Pau Coach Sébastien Piqueronies: "We couldn't match their physicality at the breakdown. Their support play was exceptional."

Looking Ahead: Bath now prepare for a potential triple-trophy assault, sitting top of the Premiership while remaining in contention for both European and domestic cups. Their quarter-final opponent will be determined in Sunday's draw.