If you thought the Gallagher Premiership semifinals couldn’t get any more thrilling, Bath just raised the bar.
After a tense battle against Bristol, Bath has secured their spot in the English club rugby final once again — and they’re just one win away from claiming a third trophy this season.
It’s been a rollercoaster, but Johann van Graan’s side showed why they’ve been the cream of the crop all year.
A Season to Remember for Bath
This Bath team has been nothing short of sensational in 2025.
Already winners of the Premiership Rugby Cup and the European Challenge Cup, their eyes are now firmly set on the Premiership title. The semifinal was far from easy, though.
Bristol came out firing with some dazzling attacking rugby that had Bath on the ropes early on.
Early Struggles and Second Half Revival
The first half was a tough watch for Bath fans. Bristol dominated with pace and skill, racing to a 13-6 lead by halftime.
Their No. 9 Harry Randall was electric until a serious shoulder injury forced him off, but Bristol still kept the pressure up.
Bath, meanwhile, looked out of sorts — chasing shadows more than controlling the game.
Bath’s Second Half Blitz Seals the Deal
Then came the turnaround. Bath exploded out of the locker room with four quick tries in the second half, completely flipping the script.
Ted Hill’s try, followed by powerful runs from Joe Cokanasiga, Will Muir, and Max Ojomoh, lit up The Rec and silenced the Bristol roar.
Their relentless pressure forced Bristol into mistakes, including a yellow card to Kieran Marmion, which only tilted momentum further in Bath’s favor.
Intense Atmosphere and High Emotions
The atmosphere inside The Rec was electric. Bristol’s Ellis Genge brought plenty of fire — even clashing with fans and earning an early penalty for foul language — but Bath’s composure and team effort proved too much.
The crowd’s blue smoke and fireworks lit the sky as Bath fans celebrated their team’s impressive comeback.
What’s Next for Bath and Their Opponents?
Bath will now face the winner of the Leicester vs. Sale semifinal, with that final showdown set for next week.
After their dominant second-half display and stellar season overall, Bath look like serious title contenders.
Coach Johann van Graan couldn’t be prouder, praising his team’s structure, calmness, and big dreams.
Bristol’s Fight and Coach’s Praise
Despite the loss, Bristol showed incredible heart and skill.
Their attacking flair was electric, and they pushed Bath to the brink.
Pat Lam, Bristol’s coach, acknowledged Bath’s quality and praised their defense and overall game.
Still, the two yellow cards in the second half proved costly.
Star Performers and Key Moments
Finn Russell, Bath’s calming presence, managed the game with precision, especially with his kicking, while Guy Pepper’s defensive work earned him player of the match honors.
Bristol’s early tries from James Dun and excellent play from Kalaveti Ravouvou showed their potential, but Bath’s resilience and power ultimately prevailed.
Bath’s Fans Celebrate Another Step Toward Glory
As the final whistle blew, Bath fans at The Rec celebrated a stunning comeback and a chance at a historic treble.
The players walked off with smiles, though Finn Russell left late with cramp, joking with Bristol’s James Williams but expected to be fit for the final.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Bath’s journey from last year’s runners-up to this season’s favorites is a story of determination, teamwork, and belief.
With a chance to clinch the Premiership title next week, they’ve set the stage for what could be one of the club’s greatest seasons ever.