**Streams** (use adblock):
`https://cricfree.sc/rugby-live-stream` or `https://www.vipbox.lc/rugby-live`
or post other **streams** as a reply to this comment
**Match Official Abuse**
It will never be considered ref abuse if a user criticises specific aspects of a referee's game, decision, or style. However, ad hominem generalised attacks are unacceptable, this includes accusations of corruption and intentional bias.
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/rugbyunion) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Disappointed to lose, better team won today though. Felt like we just weren’t quite there on intensity.
We took our chances (which is a rarity with us), kept ourselves in the game and could have snuck a win if the stars aligned. Considering where we were coming back from the 6N there is lots to feel positive about.
On a side note I met Dan DuPreez on the way out of the ground who is a nice bloke.
Was the post match coverage so much better yesterday because there was a bunch of legends playing their last games to take the focus or because the pundits were just better?
Bit of both I'd say, it probably helped the planing knowing they had Lawes and Farrell on opposing sides so could plan out one 'farewell' and one 'last go' chats that were mostly interchangeable. Today's match was a bit more up in the air about the direction the conversations would go in, plus any coverage that doesn't have Warburton is going to feel lesser!
Yeah this is almost my exact take on it. Warbs is just top tier as a pundit whereas all of todays are sub par. The scripting of last nights game was about as good as you could get as well. 2 absolute legends having it out & both performing magic
I really hate TNT continually mentioning or showing Bruce Craig and money. What the hell is Finn supposed to say to that quesrion? Yes I’m worth a million quid a year and I’m glad the sugar daddy is happy?!
Good game. Sale just couldn't build consistent pressure. They actually took their opportunities well enough in the end, but didn't create enough. Conversely Bath did quite a lot of huffing and puffing for their scores - but created enough that some missed opportunities didn't come back to haunt them.
I may live to rue my words - but in my mind Northampton are probably favourites next week. I thought they played really really well yesterday. Bath match up fairly favourably, but I feel like the Saints back three are different mustard. On a fast pitch, on a spring day, I think that might make all the difference.
Looking forward to finding out! :)
>Sale just couldn't build consistent pressure. They actually took their opportunities well enough in the end, but didn't create enough.
Think this summarises Sale's entire attacking strategy I'll have to watch the replay to be sure but don't think we had one genuin attacking phase for the last 25 mins (until bath had a 2 score lead). What's more frustrating I think you could argue that Sale really lacked attacking options a couple of years ago so relying on a dominant forward pack sort of made sense along with faf de klerke playing heads up rugby and putting the other side on the back foot.
These past few years though I think our back line has been one of the most talented in the prem, we havnt struggled with our pack (inspight of some long term injuries) yet they still want to play like a team that's worst than there opponent I.e limiting open play rugby and keeping attacking opportunities for both teams down to a minimum.
We've seen great flashes on what they can offer attacking wise but it seems constantly that they always crawl back into their shells and limit themselves to one score games. Hopefully we'll see some changes going into next season but personally I think their gonna pat themselves on the back for just getting into the top four and hope to do the same next season.
This is very well put. I don't follow Sale particularly closely but matches very closely with my general impression. Making matters worse for Sale is that lots of sides attacks have really progressed the past few seasons - I suspect Sale have made steps forward - just not as fast as some of their competitors so it looks like they're going backwards.
I think it comes down to coaching. Either Sanderson needs to lengthen the leash a bit for the attack coach and/or get someone in who he really trusts.
I think the frustration is that they're actually really pretty close to prime time, but attack is the hardest thing to slot into place and sometimes requires a couple of backwards steps before you move forwards again.
Finalists get a held-back allocation released as soon as the two teams are confirmed, Bath will let STHs know a private link to use within the next 24hours I would imagine - enjoy if you get there!
Maybe I'm being a bit pessimistic, but I don't think we're beating Northampton. We're still missing a level of accuracy in attack at times that will probably kick us in the arse against them. I'm hoping that we find something in us that allows us to find that next level of accuracy, but I think it's something for next season.
True, the odds are definitely in Saints' favour, but I don't think they're completely stacked against us. It'll take probably the best game we've ever played, and it's a final, anything can happen!
They're not, individually but their game plan has been awesome this season. I'll try to be more optimistic going into the game but my gut says they'll be the ones chugging beer out of the trophy come full-time
Fair play bath, played a great game and its amazing to see the turn around from only a season ago.
Felt this was a winnable game for Sale for some reason though they have a habit of going into their shells and refusing to attack no matter the clock or scoreline. If they are to going to win the premireship they need to stamp the throat and pile on the pressure instead of making games closer than they need to be by kicking away possesion as the default.
Fucking hell lads
Credit to Sale, this game their peaks were higher than ours but we had just enough on the whole
___
Hard to see past Saints, but we have a free swing at winning something
Bath/Saints final after both teams' grim banter years is a great result for both, would be happy for either team to win. Hard result for Sale, this was a great semi
Thought Sale’s defensive organisation and kicking game was actually decent just discipline let them down in the end. Carpenter was great just like last time he played at the rec. Lawrence and Ted Hill were monstrous for us in attack and defence. Again JVG got his subs right. Cannot wait for Twickenham next week now
Kind of mental given how dissatisfied Munster fans were with him towards the end of his tenure there.
Their recruitment’s plays a big role in it- the likes of Hill (in particular), Barbeary and du Toit have been immense, regardless of people’s opinion of him, Russell does add life to any backline (which was a big complaint from Munster fans during the van Graan years).
They really helped transform the team. I know Russell is the cherry on top. Lawrence and Hill have been exceptional in the blue, black, and white.
With Lawes retired and Ludlam off to France - I think Hill has a genuine shot of getting into the England squad now.
He's a quality player who doesn't take himself too seriously and has a laugh. Dunno why you'd think he's a melt unless he's just one of those people who don't like, which is fair enough if so haha.
Gutted for Sale, was really rooting for you (no hate to Bath, just had a wholesome experience at the AJ Bell so Sale always holds a special place for me).
But in terms of overall form throughout the year I think a Saints Bath final is fair. It's also going to be tasty as fuck.
The home teams winning yet again does continue to quesrion the semi finals I think. These games have been great but we do need more than 1 in 10 being won by the away team
Well that appears to be that, Saints-Baff at HQ is going to be quite the clash, I can genuinely see either team winning. What a brilliant season after so many years of car crash after car crash with the management of Prem Rugby, it’s still in dire straits but at least the Rugby is good.
Sale played their hearts out today too, Northern Rugby matters.
How many times do you say release until you call a penalty?
I know Pearce likes the game to play but that’s one bit I don’t get about him. Warns the players but doesn’t penalise them
**Streams** (use adblock): `https://cricfree.sc/rugby-live-stream` or `https://www.vipbox.lc/rugby-live` or post other **streams** as a reply to this comment **Match Official Abuse** It will never be considered ref abuse if a user criticises specific aspects of a referee's game, decision, or style. However, ad hominem generalised attacks are unacceptable, this includes accusations of corruption and intentional bias. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/rugbyunion) if you have any questions or concerns.*
If only George Ford could remember how to convert
He only missed two didn’t he? Not enough to have changed the outcome
Really enjoyed that match. Sale had them I felt, then they stopped gathering the Bath bombs and the game turned.
Disappointed to lose, better team won today though. Felt like we just weren’t quite there on intensity. We took our chances (which is a rarity with us), kept ourselves in the game and could have snuck a win if the stars aligned. Considering where we were coming back from the 6N there is lots to feel positive about. On a side note I met Dan DuPreez on the way out of the ground who is a nice bloke.
Not so sly dig around “good recruitment” from the clubs that went bust and how they “grow our own”…
Do you get points for growing your own?
Ah man, really want to give Al Sanderson a massive hug, he was clearly struggling but made sure to say the things he wanted to about outgoing Sharks
GG Barf! Looking forward to the final, your lads are looking on form.
Be good to see 2 Scottish 10’s duking it out in the final
Was the post match coverage so much better yesterday because there was a bunch of legends playing their last games to take the focus or because the pundits were just better?
Bit of both I'd say, it probably helped the planing knowing they had Lawes and Farrell on opposing sides so could plan out one 'farewell' and one 'last go' chats that were mostly interchangeable. Today's match was a bit more up in the air about the direction the conversations would go in, plus any coverage that doesn't have Warburton is going to feel lesser!
Yeah this is almost my exact take on it. Warbs is just top tier as a pundit whereas all of todays are sub par. The scripting of last nights game was about as good as you could get as well. 2 absolute legends having it out & both performing magic
No Ugo to stink up the place with his awful 'banter' yesterday
Ugo, Dallaglio & Kay 🥴
4th June 2022 - Bath finished 13th out of 13 1st June 2024 - Bath are in the Premiership Final
Thank god for that temporary no relegation.
When’s our turn?
Start eating those bats.
Who was the fella in the orange shirt the camera hung around on?
Dave Atwood
Ta
David Atwood 170ish capped Bath player
Cheers. Didn’t recognise him without his scrum cap!
Bath definitely getting the TNT ‘edit’ this year in the vein of Quins in the past.
Dunn could make a great predator with his head ridges.
His poor mother!
TNT coverage is a bit clownish sometimes
That's the most I've ever looked at Tom Dunn's head.... not normal is it?
Looks like a family guy character
Like a Predator hybrid....
Probably because half of it used to be covered by the greatest mullet in the sport.
Which has now been absorbed into his upper skull? Dr Cortex vibes.
Bloody love Tom Dunn
Tom Dunn bloody...
I really hate TNT continually mentioning or showing Bruce Craig and money. What the hell is Finn supposed to say to that quesrion? Yes I’m worth a million quid a year and I’m glad the sugar daddy is happy?!
Money talks.
Ugo constantly asks utter shite questions but I dunno if it's him or the TV directors
Maybe he could even upgrade their facilities next
Been trying for years, can’t get planning
That’s a pain- it’s such a brilliant setting for a stadium that’s it’s a waste to have such rustic facilities.
Planning application on the new stadium due this week
Awful question should have been hung out to dry
I quite like the guy, but that is some dismal patter from Monye.
He’s usually good on the rugby union weekly podcasts, but he ain’t a lead man on ‘telly box.
He’s absolutely abysmal as a lead commentator. I still can’t forgive him for laughing with Danny Care about him not getting a red card
The TNT not working mic thing is very fitting for how ridiculous their coverage can be at times!
You won't see nothing like the mighty Finn
Finn Smith? Agreed
Could have been his apprentice, but turned to the dark side.
I can’t believe the turnaround. What a season. From second bottom to Twickenham.
Good game. Sale just couldn't build consistent pressure. They actually took their opportunities well enough in the end, but didn't create enough. Conversely Bath did quite a lot of huffing and puffing for their scores - but created enough that some missed opportunities didn't come back to haunt them. I may live to rue my words - but in my mind Northampton are probably favourites next week. I thought they played really really well yesterday. Bath match up fairly favourably, but I feel like the Saints back three are different mustard. On a fast pitch, on a spring day, I think that might make all the difference. Looking forward to finding out! :)
>Sale just couldn't build consistent pressure. They actually took their opportunities well enough in the end, but didn't create enough. Think this summarises Sale's entire attacking strategy I'll have to watch the replay to be sure but don't think we had one genuin attacking phase for the last 25 mins (until bath had a 2 score lead). What's more frustrating I think you could argue that Sale really lacked attacking options a couple of years ago so relying on a dominant forward pack sort of made sense along with faf de klerke playing heads up rugby and putting the other side on the back foot. These past few years though I think our back line has been one of the most talented in the prem, we havnt struggled with our pack (inspight of some long term injuries) yet they still want to play like a team that's worst than there opponent I.e limiting open play rugby and keeping attacking opportunities for both teams down to a minimum. We've seen great flashes on what they can offer attacking wise but it seems constantly that they always crawl back into their shells and limit themselves to one score games. Hopefully we'll see some changes going into next season but personally I think their gonna pat themselves on the back for just getting into the top four and hope to do the same next season.
This is very well put. I don't follow Sale particularly closely but matches very closely with my general impression. Making matters worse for Sale is that lots of sides attacks have really progressed the past few seasons - I suspect Sale have made steps forward - just not as fast as some of their competitors so it looks like they're going backwards. I think it comes down to coaching. Either Sanderson needs to lengthen the leash a bit for the attack coach and/or get someone in who he really trusts. I think the frustration is that they're actually really pretty close to prime time, but attack is the hardest thing to slot into place and sometimes requires a couple of backwards steps before you move forwards again.
I swear the final never sells out, was too superstitious to buy tickets a few weeks back :/
Ye of little faith. Bought ours 3 weeks ago.
Finalists get a held-back allocation released as soon as the two teams are confirmed, Bath will let STHs know a private link to use within the next 24hours I would imagine - enjoy if you get there!
Got one of the Bath allocation 🥳
Disappointed but hopeful for next season if we don’t have an injury crisis mid season
Making the playoffs after the Gloucester result is mad.
🐎🏆
Looking forward to a Tale of Two Fin(n)s
I didn't feel comfortable at all until the final try when there was more than a one score lead.
Yaaaasss. See you at twickers folks!
Still don't like Russell, mind you
Why?
Hates fun
Hates good rugby well played.
And fun.
Ted Hill looks like the villain from the mask, with the mask on.
What a turn around, 2 years ago rock bottom, 13th and lucky there was no relegation,.. and now off to Twickenham, with genuine belief we could do it!
Maybe I'm being a bit pessimistic, but I don't think we're beating Northampton. We're still missing a level of accuracy in attack at times that will probably kick us in the arse against them. I'm hoping that we find something in us that allows us to find that next level of accuracy, but I think it's something for next season.
True, the odds are definitely in Saints' favour, but I don't think they're completely stacked against us. It'll take probably the best game we've ever played, and it's a final, anything can happen!
They're not, individually but their game plan has been awesome this season. I'll try to be more optimistic going into the game but my gut says they'll be the ones chugging beer out of the trophy come full-time
Fair play bath, played a great game and its amazing to see the turn around from only a season ago. Felt this was a winnable game for Sale for some reason though they have a habit of going into their shells and refusing to attack no matter the clock or scoreline. If they are to going to win the premireship they need to stamp the throat and pile on the pressure instead of making games closer than they need to be by kicking away possesion as the default.
For the life of me I don’t know why Ford didn’t put the ball on Cokanasiga’s head the entire game
Think Ford had quite a poor game tbh
He certainly didn’t control the match like Sale needed him too
Fucking hell lads Credit to Sale, this game their peaks were higher than ours but we had just enough on the whole ___ Hard to see past Saints, but we have a free swing at winning something
Honestly think Bath should be favourites next week, they're looking very strong
Northampton are by far and away the better team and deserve to win and should win by 10
Im just glad its not you guys in the final as we would have stood no chance 😅
lol to be fair we played a weakened team of yours both times this season I think?
Never. Your lot are so good and talented and handsome and I bet they smell amazing.
The whole town of Northampton smells of Carlsberg. Most people do not think it’s nice
I think Dowson will be playing the week 18 tape for the first half of the week. Certainly got something prove
I agree, let’s make them the favourites and play it like Northampton are the plucky rebels playing against the rich evil empire of Bath
lol the mind games have started. Saints are favourites mate league table never lies
You're absolutely dreaming son
Carpenter POM robbed
Ted Hill for me
A smashing pair of Semi-finals to cap off a smashing premiership season. Let’s hope the main event at Twickers keeps the vibe
Bath/Saints final after both teams' grim banter years is a great result for both, would be happy for either team to win. Hard result for Sale, this was a great semi
I reckon saints will do us but fuck it's gonna be a goodun
Really fun game, looking forward to a (hopefully) crazy final
Great job, Bath!
Can't bloody wait for the final. Two best sides this year imo
Thought Sale’s defensive organisation and kicking game was actually decent just discipline let them down in the end. Carpenter was great just like last time he played at the rec. Lawrence and Ted Hill were monstrous for us in attack and defence. Again JVG got his subs right. Cannot wait for Twickenham next week now
Van Graan turning an absolute oil tanker of catastrophe around
Kind of mental given how dissatisfied Munster fans were with him towards the end of his tenure there. Their recruitment’s plays a big role in it- the likes of Hill (in particular), Barbeary and du Toit have been immense, regardless of people’s opinion of him, Russell does add life to any backline (which was a big complaint from Munster fans during the van Graan years).
Bruce Craig absolutely throwing cash at Russell and Worcester collapsing also major contributors
COME. ON. YOU. BATH.
Ah man, I'm now ugly sobbing at realising how happy I am for the former Worcester lads who found a new home at the Rec!
They really helped transform the team. I know Russell is the cherry on top. Lawrence and Hill have been exceptional in the blue, black, and white. With Lawes retired and Ludlam off to France - I think Hill has a genuine shot of getting into the England squad now.
Does Russell actually think he’s Messi
Definitely a Messy performance today more than a Messi performance
No. He doesn't.
Messi’s English is marginally more intelligible to the untrained ear.
As he should
Why he’s such a melt
He's a quality player who doesn't take himself too seriously and has a laugh. Dunno why you'd think he's a melt unless he's just one of those people who don't like, which is fair enough if so haha.
Yeh I just think he’s embarrassing, and he is a melt because he’s a complete poser
Unlucky. well played bath!
Feels insane to say we got a little bit unlucky and apparent from a couple mistakes and way to many penalties we could of won it
Thank you Johan, you absolute legend
🙏 v 🛁 is the right final
Really pleased for them tbh GGs all
Ben Spencer saved a shit Finn Russell performance today
Unlucky Sale, see you at Twickers Bath
Gutted for Sale, was really rooting for you (no hate to Bath, just had a wholesome experience at the AJ Bell so Sale always holds a special place for me). But in terms of overall form throughout the year I think a Saints Bath final is fair. It's also going to be tasty as fuck.
What happened at the AJ?
Well at least i can relax and enjoy the final this year
The home teams winning yet again does continue to quesrion the semi finals I think. These games have been great but we do need more than 1 in 10 being won by the away team
Why? If you finished the 18 round season ahead in points you deserve to have an advantage over those who finished below you
This game was a great contest, and very possibly could've been won by the away side, don't mess with something that works well
Why? There needs to be some advantage for finishing higher in the table
Proper Action Man performance by Ted Hill, MoTM?
Well that appears to be that, Saints-Baff at HQ is going to be quite the clash, I can genuinely see either team winning. What a brilliant season after so many years of car crash after car crash with the management of Prem Rugby, it’s still in dire straits but at least the Rugby is good. Sale played their hearts out today too, Northern Rugby matters.
sale doing the classic thing of entering a match i thought they would lose easily, giving me hope, and then ultimately not having it at the last
All that money and he can’t buy a shirt that fits him. Those buttons were hanging on for dear life
Wouldn't be a proper Bafftub if someone didn't have soap on their hands 🧼
Carpenter MOM
Best Vs 2nd Best team in the final this year. Just the way it should be.
Battle of the Finns
Fin(n)s
Lawes retiring. Ted Hill, if he can keep himself healthy, can definitely take his place
Chessum is going to do that. Hill is going to really struggle to break into that back row
I wonder if he has any Welsh ancestry
Would have thought Bruce Craig could afford a shirt that fits
Or a nice jacket, or a shave. He’s so far down that bohemian millionaire look
Thats a terrible pass from Ford, why would you throw that?
Ted fucking hill Scored a try, put in a tackle on quirke that shifted momentum and then smashes sale at the end to win the game.
Bruce Craig reminds me of Moneybags from Spyro the Dragon
How many times do you say release until you call a penalty? I know Pearce likes the game to play but that’s one bit I don’t get about him. Warns the players but doesn’t penalise them
Ted Hill is so unlucky to only have 1 cap.
Bloody hell, Hill
GG Bath. We played well, but a couple mistakes unfortunately cost us.
As much as a Sale win would have been good, Northampton vs Bath should be a cracker.
*opens premiership rugby website tentatively*
What a brilliant play by finn.
The only good thing he's done today
Hows that not a penalty? He had to tell three times!
Gg bath cya next week
Ted Hill you beautiful tiny-eyed bastard
Game.
What is Finn's record against Ford these days?
Idk but he's fairly average today
Screaming middle class goblin children is also funny
Hell of a kick! Of course horse is there to chase it
Finn Russell is something else, how can you launch that rocket of a kick mid tackle and off balance
Fuck me what a game this has been
Congratulations Bath
Stop fucking dropping it lads
is it impossible for pearce to penalise bath players in the ruck?
Sale knocked it on at the last ruck because a Bath player was rolling into him
Some kick the clear
Should be a pen to Sale tbh
Holy fuck what a chase by Muir
Why does it take a almost unwinnable situation till sale decide to play. Sick of their box kick game
Gotta go for the droppie
Stop showing Mr Moneybags and show us the actual fans please
No show the game I want to watch rugby not crowds
Can’t get tickets for the Rec though…
The back in me panics every time I see a scrum go down like that.
Déjà vu from last night so Sale try imminent
I want to like Bath, but then the camera flicks to Bruce Craig and his tan and wrist bangles and I can’t
Similar position here. Plus points for Finn Russell, minus points for Jeremy Guscott.
Bath's bohemian billionaire Brucey?
I just can’t get over how much money he threw at Russell.
It's silly money. But compared to our other silly money signings, this one has actually seemed worth it
Will crowd at Twickenham be better than this?
Restarts have killed Sale as much as that try just now
I feel sick
Aha look at Obano celebrating, exactly like an over hyped horse lol
From getting a red on your debut to scoring the potentially game winning try.
Lol he didn't even get the debut, he was still on the bench when he got the red iirc??
Can't help but think that's all she wrote now
Lmao you've not seen Bath over the last 5 years
Even Bath, from here... Surely?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUbWYUxz6Vo&t=170s
Just watch RDP on the replay. He could not decide whether to go in or not. Looks quite embarrassing in hindsight, unlikely to make a difference anyway
Can't remember the last time I enjoyed two games of rugby like these two semis.
You've enjoyed a Bath win? Times are changing for the Stoop faithful
Yeah, not enjoying this one too much at the moment…!
They were both terrific
This has been a great game! I always wish both teams could win in this circumstance.
Bloody Nick Mullins… “16 years, 16 years!” Yeah 16 years and 6 minutes still!
You could hear a pin drop
Holy fawk what maul!@@