Bath delivered a ruthless display of power, pace and precision to overwhelm Edinburgh 63-10 and secure top spot in Pool 2 of the Investec Champions Cup, sealing a home tie in the last 16 and guaranteeing home advantage in the quarter-finals should they progress.
Johann van Graan’s side ran in nine tries at the Rec in a performance that underlined their credentials as serious contenders for European glory, with their forwards laying a brutal platform before the backs tore the visitors apart.
Forwards Set the Tone in Commanding First Half
Knowing that a five-point victory would be enough to top the pool, Bath showed early intent by turning down a straightforward penalty in favour of an attacking lineout. That ambition was rewarded when tighthead prop Thomas du Toit crossed for the opening try.
Edinburgh were soon under sustained pressure again after a costly handling error deep in their own territory. Bath’s dominant scrum earned a penalty try from five metres out, with the Scottish side unable to withstand the relentless shove from the home pack.
All three of Bath’s starting front-row forwards crossed the whitewash before half-time. Beno Obano powered over from close range, while hooker Tom Dunn added another after a series of punishing carries that epitomised Bath’s physical dominance.
Number eight Alfie Barbeary, named player of the match for the second consecutive game, was central to everything Bath did well. His ball-carrying, control at the base of the scrum and defensive work consistently put Edinburgh on the back foot.
Edinburgh Show Flashes but Lack Consistency
Edinburgh, who made six changes to the side that beat Gloucester the previous week, struggled to cope with Bath’s intensity. Although they briefly threatened through Harry Paterson’s line break and some sharp handling, their only try came through centre Piers O’Conor, converted by Ben Thompson.
There were encouraging signs for the Scottish side, with young internationals showing resilience and work rate, but turnovers and defensive lapses prevented them from building sustained momentum.
Ultimately, the visitors were unable to live with Bath’s physicality at the breakdown and set piece, where the contest was largely decided.
Bath Run Riot After the Break
If the first half was about power, the second showcased Bath’s attacking flair. Wing Joe Cokanasiga scored twice, using his strength and speed to devastating effect as he brushed off defenders down the touchline.
Centre Max Ojomoh was outstanding in linking play, his handling and vision repeatedly putting teammates into space. His involvement was key in sending Cokanasiga clear and later in setting up Ben Spencer, who finished clinically.
Henry Arundell added another with a sharp finish, while Ojomoh capped an excellent individual performance with a try of his own as Bath’s backs carved Edinburgh open at will.
Finn Russell was flawless from the tee, converting eight of Bath’s nine tries to keep the scoreboard ticking relentlessly.
Statement Win for Title Contenders
The comprehensive nature of the victory highlighted the depth and balance of Bath’s squad. Their forward pack delivered dominance at scrum time and around the fringes, while the backline combined power, pace and creativity.
With nine tries scored and a major European rival swept aside, Bath sent a clear message to the rest of the competition. Home advantage in the knockout stages now places them in a commanding position as the tournament progresses.
Edinburgh’s Qualification Hopes Still Alive
Despite the heavy defeat, Edinburgh remain second in Pool 2 and can still qualify for the last 16. However, their progression will depend on results elsewhere, with victories for Munster over Castres and Toulon away at Gloucester required to confirm their place in the knockout rounds.
Barbeary Praises Team Hunger
Player of the match Alfie Barbeary highlighted Bath’s motivation after the final whistle, pointing to the importance of securing home knockout rugby.
He said the team came out with real hunger, stressing that earning home advantage was a major driving factor behind the performance and that the players are eager to see who they face next.
Conclusion
Bath’s 63-10 demolition of Edinburgh was one of the most emphatic performances of this Champions Cup campaign. With forward power, attacking precision and squad depth all on show, Van Graan’s side look well equipped to mount a deep run in Europe.
As the knockout stages approach, few teams will relish a trip to the Rec.
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