The homegrown hooker isn’t shy of sharing his emotions verbally or in action and he knows exactly what the next two home and two away games mean to him, starting with Exeter Chiefs on Sunday at The Rec.

“It’s about being proud,” he said.

“When you get to this time of year, there are always people that move on. These are their last opportunities to make memories and to play. Some people will also get their first opportunities to play as well due to injuries and what not.

“Every time you go out there, you realise there are a limited amount of games and it makes every one a little more special. For me, it’s making the most of every opportunity and taking a step forward for Bath Rugby.”

FEWER THAN 200 TICKETS REMAIN FOR CHIEFS AT HOME!

Head of Rugby Johann van Graan is certain of a couple of things going into Sunday: a physical Chiefs side and a fantastic home support from the Blue, Black and White faithful.

“I always expect one Exeter and that’s the physical, gainline, smart Exeter. They have a smart way of playing the game. If you look at their coaching staff and a big part of their squad, they have been together for a very long time.

“The game on Christmas Eve was a magnificent game of rugby. We fell one moment short in the final play of the game away from home. We’re sure they’ll come out firing but we’re looking forward to playing this game in front of a packed-out Rec.

“One thing that has been a blessing is the support this club has. The fans turn out every week and they love the game. The players love playing at The Rec and I’d like to believe they’ve seen there is improvement but for us as a group it’s about execution now. It’s brilliant to play in front of them.”

MATCH DETAILS - BATH RUGBY v exeter chiefs

When: Sunday 26 March, 15:00
Where: The Rec
Competition: R21 Gallagher Premiership
Coverage: Match Centre, BBC Radio Bristol, BT Sport
Referee: Karl Dickson
Assistant Referees: Ian Tempest & Tom Foley
TMO: David Rose

exeter chiefs PROFILE

Formed: 1871
Stadium: Sandy Park
Director of Rugby: Rob Baxter
Captain: Jack Yeandle
Finish last season: 7th

HONOURS

Champions Cup: 2019/20
Premiership: 2016/17, 2019/20
Anglo-Welsh Cup: 2013/14, 2017/18
Premiership Rugby Cup: 2022/23
RFU Championship: 2009/10
EDF Energy Trophy: 2005/06
National League 1: 1996/97
National League 2 South: 1995/96

ONE TO WATCH – JACK NOWELL

Poised to sign for Stade Rochelais and move to the Top 14 like many of his Exeter teammates, Nowell has lit up the Gallagher Premiership for many a season. The full-back-cum-wing has played in 11 league games in 2022/23, scoring three tries, including one last time out against Newcastle Falcons. With ball in hand, he is lively, beating 45 defenders from 643 metres and making six line breaks, but he is useful at the breakdown too with four jackal turnovers.

TRY REWIND

Chris Cook scored a peach of a try against Exeter Chiefs back in 2018.

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The final two matches at The Rec this season are:

Exeter Chiefs, Sun 26 Mar, 15:00
Saracens, Sat 6 May, 16:00

We look forward to you joining us!

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Huboo Match Preview: Exeter Chiefs (H - R21)

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