Bath Powers Past Gloucester to Secure Semi-Final Spot in Prem Cup
Defending champions Bath showcased their dominance with a commanding 38-26 victory over local rivals Gloucester in Pool A of the Prem Cup, securing an away semi-final against Leicester Tigers next weekend. Bath entered the match knowing they required a bonus point to surpass their opponents in the standings. They started the game with intensity, scoring early tries through Tom Carr-Smith and the newly re-signed Kepu Tuipulotu. Ben Redshaw responded for Gloucester, but Bath continued their offensive push. Further tries from Will Muir and Carr-Smith allowed Bath to clinch the crucial bonus point. Gloucester, however, fought back with tries from Ollie Thorley, Max Knight, and Deian Gwynne. Despite their efforts, Bath sealed their victory with additional tries from Ethan Staddon and Max Ojomoh, exposing Gloucester's defensive weaknesses once again. In a parallel match in Pool B, the already-qualified Northampton Saints narrowly edged past Saracens with a score of 35-33 at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens, setting up an away semi-final against Exeter Chiefs. Key moments included: Olly Hartley and James Ramm exchanging early tries. Nick Tompkins giving Saracens a brief lead. A level score at halftime thanks to George Furbank. A strong Saracens lead built by tries from Theo Dan, Rotimi Segun, and Brandon Jackson. Late scores from Chunya Munga, Rory Hutchinson, and George Hendy to secure the Saints' victory.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-02-28