Trophy cheer as University of Bath RFC win at The Rec to secure Bath Combination Cup

University of Bath RFC became Bath Combination Cup champions for the second time in four years on Wednesday night after overcoming Midsomer Norton at The Rec in front of a lively crowd.

Right from the off Bath came out firing, intent on playing an expansive brand of rugby which saw them run in two early tries through Cal Barrett and Murray Bellis, with fly-half Tom Pitman converting both.

Despite the Blue & Gold’s brave defensive efforts, the Midsomer Norton team got back into the game through their strong forward pack who bulldozed their way over the line on two occasions through driving lineouts.

Bath continued to play some great attacking rugby which led to a second touchdown for Bellis, as well as tries for Ed Ashcroft and Dan Thomas which gave them a 33-12 lead at half-time.

Whilst Bath continued to play attractive rugby, Midsomer Norton utilised their strong set-piece platform brilliantly and scored two early second-half tries to close the gap once more.

Bath stuck to their high-tempo gameplan but also showed great composure in the final quarter which helped Ben Meaden dart over for their final try of the evening.

Despite the game seeming to get away from Midsomer Norton, they showed great character to stick in the game and were rewarded a penalty try after a continued spell of pressure.

Although the Blue and Gold lost Cameron Keys to the sin bin, they hung on to secure a fantastic 41-29 victory to end a thrilling match.

Match stats

University of Bath starting XV: 15 Ben Meadon, 14 Cal Barrett, 13 Jake Penprasse, 12 Will Stride, 11 Murray Bellis, 10 Tom Pitman, 9 Jacob Tansey; 1 Will French, 2 Luke Trewella (c), 3 Josh Rasor, 4 John Smith, 5 Cam Keys, 6 Ed Ashcroft, 7 Jake Sugg, 8 Dan Thomas. Replacements: 16 Matt Mason, 17 Dan Mason, 18 Rory Holland, 19 Lachie Wood, 20 Sam Bridges, 21 Miles Gilbert, 22 Max Senior.

Tries: Murray Bellis (2), Cal Barrett, Ed Ashcroft, Dan Thomas, Ben Meaden.

Conversions: Tom Pitman (4).

Penalties: Tom Pitman (1).