Bath stage late rally to beat Northampton in classic

Bath’s resurgence in the 75th minute sealed a dramatic 26-35 victory over Northampton in the Investec Champions Cup quarter-final, marking their return to the semi-finals after 20 years. The hosts, backed by a resilient bench, clawed back 21 points in the final period, culminating in a thrilling finish at the Rec.

Northampton started with a sensational attack, scoring five tries within the first half-hour to take an early 28-7 lead. The top two English teams delivered an electrifying display, setting the tone for a match that showcased modern rugby’s intensity. However, Bath refused to fold, equaling the score with four tries before halftime, resulting in a 61-point tie at the break.

The momentum shifted decisively in the second half as Northampton’s attacking flair waned. Bath’s depth proved pivotal, with replacement Ted Hill scoring the decisive try with five minutes remaining. A late yellow card for Saints’ talisman Henry Pollock, following a contentious tackle, intensified the pressure and paved the way for the comeback.

Quotes from the match

“What an extraordinary turnaround,” said Bath head coach Johann van Graan. “This game ranks among the best I’ve been involved in. Northampton are a fantastic rugby team, and the try before halftime was a turning point. It’s incredible to see players living out their dreams.”

“Credit to Bath for their resilience,” remarked Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson. “We were 28-7 up but never comfortable. We had chances to secure the win, and defensively, there are areas to improve. We need to stay focused for the next challenge.”

Bath’s tries came from Dunn, Russell, Arundell, Van Wyk, Tuipulotu, and Hill, while their conversions were all by Russell. Northampton’s tries were scored by Pollock, Dingwall, Lockett, Kemeny, and Sleightholme, with Smith adding five penalties and two penalties. The victory sets up a high-stakes semi-final clash against either Bordeaux Begles or Toulouse.

Team lineups

Bath: De Glanville; Arundell, Lawrence, Redpath, Muir; Russell, Spencer (capt); Obano, Dunn, Sela, Roux, Ewels, Pepper, Underhill, Reid. Replacements: Tuipulotu, Van Wyk, Du Toit, Molony, Hill, Van der Linde, Carreras, Barbeary. Sin-bin: Reid (2 mins).

Northampton: Furbank (capt); Freeman, Hutchinson, Dingwall, Sleightholme; Smith, McParland; Fischetti, Langdon, Kundiona, Lockett, Van der Mescht, Kemeny, Pearson, Pollock. Replacements: Wright, Iyogun, Millar.