Bath vs Exeter Chiefs: Five key moments as champions survive stunning comeback and England star returns
Key Takeaways from Bath's Thrilling Victory Over Exeter Chiefs
Following a thrilling 33-26 win over Exeter Chiefs at the Recreation Ground, there were several key moments that defined Saturday evening’s Premiership clash. Here are the five main takeaways from the match.
A Jaw-Dropping Comeback
Bath narrowly escaped a dramatic comeback by Exeter Chiefs at the freezing Rec, securing a victory that saw them briefly reclaim the top spot in the Gallagher Premiership. The visitors had trailed 26-0 within the first quarter after Campbell Ridl was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Henry Arundell. Beno Obano, Alfie Barbeary, Santi Carreras, and Ollie Lawrence all scored tries for Bath during that period.
Exeter responded with a remarkable effort, scoring four tries of their own through Joseph Dweba, Olly Woodburn, Greg Fisilau, and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. It seemed as though Bath, who had been defeated by Northampton the previous week, would suffer another home defeat. However, a last-gasp try by replacement back row Arthur Green, following a 38-phase move, secured the win for Bath.
Fuelled by Defeat
Bath entered the game with a sense of urgency, driven by their recent loss to Northampton. They had not lost at the Rec since October 2024 before conceding 27 unanswered points to a dominant Saints side. “We were fuelled by that defeat,” said Barbeary. “It hurt, it hurt a lot of the lads. We wanted to right some wrongs.”
Under a full moon, Bath managed to overcome their challenges, though they gave their supporters a tense moment as Exeter’s powerful comeback threatened to turn the tide. “We made a great start then we knocked off,” admitted Barbeary. “We got there in the end, but the emotion is relief more than anything.”
Exeter’s Comeback Ability
Exeter proved once again why they are considered one of the most formidable teams in the league. They have a history of making incredible comebacks, having trailed by 26 points against Northampton, 20 points against Sale, and 11 points against Saracens, only to come away with victories each time.
Despite being down 26-0 in the first 20 minutes, the Chiefs did not give up. With 15 men on the field, they dominated the scoreboard 26-7. Although they ultimately lost the match, they gained valuable experience that will serve them well in future games. Bath, on the other hand, will not forget this lesson anytime soon.
Campbell Ridl’s Mistake
Campbell Ridl, a 20-year-old wing for Exeter, faced consequences for his actions during the match. On his Premiership debut against Saracens a fortnight ago, he was sin-binned for a deliberate knock-on. His team still managed to win, but this time, against a stronger opposition, the result was different.
Ridl ran recklessly into Arundell, who fell awkwardly after the collision. An immediate yellow card was upgraded to a 20-minute red by referee Luke Pearce. This decision cost Exeter 26 points. While Ridl has shown potential, particularly when he scored a try against Leicester, cards at this level can be costly. Even the resilient Exeter side could not recover from this setback.
Ollie Lawrence’s Performance
Ollie Lawrence, England’s preferred outside-centre, had a mixed performance in the match. Last Saturday, he was outshone by Tommy Freeman, who scored a hat-trick for Northampton. Lawrence’s game was marred by a spill over the line in the final minute, which cost Bath a bonus point.
However, just a week later, he faced Henry Slade, the league’s top scorer, in a high-pressure match. Lawrence’s response was measured, avoiding the temptation to take the game on his own. He kept Exeter’s midfield honest and contributed to Bath’s record-breaking performance.
With 19 and a half minutes on the clock, Lawrence crossed for Bath’s fourth try, claiming the fastest bonus point of the season by nine minutes. While Slade remained influential, Lawrence’s performance marked a positive step in his career. With a month until the Six Nations, a try, a win, and a clean bill of health were a fitting celebration for his 50th appearance for Bath.
