Bath Rugby Player Ratings: Stars Shine Bright in Thrilling Exeter Chiefs Victory as One Player Proves Just How Special They Truly Are
In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bath Rugby delivered a stunning performance against the Exeter Chiefs, securing a crucial victory that will go down as one of their finest this season. The win was a testament to the team’s resilience, skill, and determination, with each player stepping up to the challenge. From the opening whistle to the final moments, Bath displayed a level of play that left their supporters buzzing and their opponents scrambling to keep up.
However, it wasn’t just the team’s collective effort that impressed on the day. One player, in particular, emerged as the standout, showing why he’s considered one of the brightest talents in the Premiership. But how did each player perform in this gripping encounter? Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Bath Rugby player ratings from their hard-fought win over Exeter Chiefs.
15. Joe Cokanasiga – 8/10
Cokanasiga was a constant threat throughout the match, making powerful runs and breaking through the Exeter defensive line time and time again. His pace and physicality were on full display, and he played a crucial role in Bath’s attacking set-ups. Though not always directly involved in the tries, his ability to make meters and put pressure on the Chiefs’ defense was invaluable. His solid defensive work also kept Exeter’s wingers in check, making him a key asset in both attack and defense.
14. Ruaridh McConnochie – 7/10
McConnochie was solid in his wing position, contributing to both the attack and defense. His work-rate was impressive, as he put himself in the right places to receive the ball and make his presence felt. Though not the game-breaker in the way Cokanasiga was, McConnochie’s steady and dependable performance helped Bath keep the ball moving and put pressure on the Exeter backline.
13. Max Ojomoh – 9/10
Max Ojomoh was undoubtedly one of Bath’s brightest stars in the win over Exeter. His vision and decision-making in attack were outstanding, and he showed a remarkable ability to break the line with sharp footwork and clever offloads. Ojomoh was a key contributor in Bath’s best attacking moves and was involved in creating several of their tries. His defensive work was equally commendable, holding firm against Exeter’s powerful backs and showing his value as both a creator and a stopper. This performance demonstrated just how special a talent he is, and he could soon become a mainstay in Bath’s starting lineup.
12. Jonathan Joseph – 8/10
Jonathan Joseph’s experience and intelligence were pivotal in Bath’s win. He displayed a composed and disciplined approach to both attack and defense, ensuring that Bath’s midfield was always organized and fluid. Joseph’s interplay with Ojomoh and his support play were key to Bath’s success in breaking the Chiefs’ defensive line. He also showed his defensive strength, managing to shut down several Exeter attacks with his quick reactions and solid tackling.
11. Cam Redpath – 8/10
Redpath was a key figure in Bath’s midfield, providing a solid defensive platform and attacking flair when needed. He linked up well with Joseph and Ojomoh, providing both tactical awareness and the ability to take on the Chiefs’ defense directly. His performance was filled with energy and commitment, and he played an integral part in shutting down Exeter’s more dynamic midfield runners.
10. Will Muir – 7/10
Will Muir provided steady service on the right wing, sticking to his task and working hard throughout the match. While his game wasn’t filled with the standout moments that some of his teammates had, Muir’s defensive work and consistency kept Exeter on the back foot. His reliable hands under the high ball and willingness to carry the ball into contact helped create crucial yardage in tight moments.
9. Ben Spencer – 9/10
The scrum-half was one of Bath’s standout performers, orchestrating the team’s play with finesse and precision. Spencer’s passing was quick and accurate, and he had an excellent feel for when to speed up the game and when to slow it down. His tactical kicking was spot-on, ensuring that Bath gained valuable territory and set up strong attacking positions. Spencer’s leadership on the field was unquestionable, and his ability to create quick, clean ball for the backs made a huge difference in the flow of the game.
8. Richard De Carpentier – 7/10
De Carpentier had a solid outing as Bath’s starting fly-half. He wasn’t overly flashy in attack but ensured that the backline had the structure and support it needed. His tactical kicking was measured, and he managed the game well, balancing the forwards’ hard work with the backs’ dynamic play. De Carpentier’s reliability in key moments, particularly when managing the game’s tempo, was crucial in securing the win.
7. Chris Cook – 7/10
Cook’s energy and decision-making from the bench were valuable in providing fresh legs in crucial moments. His quick service from the ruck helped maintain Bath’s momentum, and his work-rate ensured that Exeter didn’t get an easy break in the latter stages of the game. While his impact was more understated compared to others, Cook’s contributions ensured that Bath kept up the intensity until the final whistle.
6. Sam Underhill – 9/10
Underhill’s performance was a reminder of just how good he can be when he’s firing on all cylinders. His tackling was brutal and precise, ensuring that Exeter’s ball carriers had little room to operate. Underhill’s physical presence was felt all over the field, and he was particularly effective at the breakdown, winning crucial turnovers and slowing Exeter’s attacking momentum. His relentless work ethic and ability to disrupt opposition ball made him one of Bath’s top performers on the day.
5. Josh Bayliss – 8/10
Bayliss was an essential part of Bath’s back row, contributing to the team’s defensive efforts and carrying the ball effectively in tight situations. His work rate was exceptional, and his ability to play both in the loose and in structured phases provided Bath with a much-needed balance. Bayliss’ leadership in the pack was also notable, helping maintain discipline and cohesion in critical moments.
4. Mike Williams – 8/10
Williams was rock solid in the second row, providing vital physicality in the scrum and at the breakdown. He took on the heavy lifting in tight phases and was always available to make those crucial, hard yards. His tackle count was impressive, and his leadership in the line-out helped Bath regain crucial possession when needed. Williams’ steady presence in the pack was essential for Bath’s dominance in the forward battle.
3. Charlie Ewels – 8/10
Ewels played an influential role in both the set-piece and open play, making an impact as one of the team’s key leaders. His line-out work was precise, and his strength in the tackle ensured that Exeter’s forwards struggled to get clean ball in key phases of the game. Ewels’ overall work rate and tenacity provided Bath with a solid foundation from which to build their attacks.
2. Levi Douglas – 7/10
Douglas was solid in his role, providing the necessary grunt in the forward pack. Though he wasn’t the most prominent player on the field, his work at the breakdown and in the tight phases was essential in gaining Bath the territorial advantage. Douglas’ presence in the set-piece ensured the team remained competitive, and he played his part in stabilizing the scrum when Exeter tried to push forward.
1. Lewis Boyce – 9/10
Boyce’s performance at loosehead prop was exceptional, and he showed why he’s one of Bath’s most valuable assets. His scrummaging was near flawless, providing the platform from which the backs could launch their attacks. Boyce’s ability to get through his defensive duties without missing a beat allowed Bath to control the physical aspects of the game, and his tireless efforts in the ruck were pivotal in ensuring that the team kept the pressure on Exeter. His overall contribution to the forward battle was immense, earning him a well-deserved rating.
Conclusion: A Game for the Ages
This thrilling victory over Exeter Chiefs not only highlighted Bath Rugby’s strengths as a team but also proved that individual brilliance can make all the difference. The standout performances, particularly from Max Ojomoh and the tireless work of Sam Underhill, showed how deep the talent pool runs at Bath, with each player stepping up when it mattered most.
The win was a statement of intent for Bath Rugby as they continue their push for higher honors in the Premiership. With a balanced mix of experience and emerging talent, they have shown that they can compete with the best. If they maintain this level of performance, they could very well be in the hunt for a playoff spot come the end of the season.
In a match filled with passion, precision, and powerful moments, Bath Rugby showed that, when all cylinders are firing, they can be a force to be reckoned with in the Premiership.
