Bath's Champions Cup dreams faced a setback as they were defeated by a formidable RC Toulon, with a final score of 45-34. Let's dive into the player ratings to dissect what went down on the pitch.
Backs
- 15 Santiago Carreras: The Argentine fullback certainly saw a lot of the ball, racking up a game-high 81 meters and leaving three defenders in his wake. However, defense proved to be a challenge, with only one tackle completed and a crucial miss that led to a Toulon try. Adding a couple of lost turnovers to the mix, it was a shaky performance for the world-class number 15.6
- 14 Joe Cokanasiga: The towering winger was a force under the high ball, securing the first 3 catches in the air, setting a strong attacking tone for Bath. His game was largely spent competing for space, using his size to win at ruck time and defend against the French attack. While opportunities in attack were limited, he executed his defensive duties well.7
- 13 Max Ojomoh: It's hard to believe this incredible talent was overlooked on the international stage for so long. He was Bath's key to unlocking Toulon's defense, causing problems every time he had the ball. His no-look pass that set up Louie Hennessey's try was a highlight.7
- 12 Cameron Redpath: While Ojomoh was supporting Finn Russell in attack, Redpath supported him defensively. He didn't get to showcase his fancy footwork, but he shut down Toulon's attack, making an impressive nine tackles, just behind Russell and Ted Hill of Bath.7
- 11 Henry Arundell: He delivered a breathtaking break in the first half, using his deadly footwork to leave the Toulon defense in disarray, proving he's one of Europe's most dangerous wingers when given even the smallest of openings. He later made a crucial try-saving tackle. Although opportunities were scarce, he made the most of them.6
- 10 Finn Russell: The Scotland fly-half had a game that was unlike what we're used to seeing from him. He spent much of the match providing defensive cover. When he did get the chance to attack, his magic was on display. His key moment was during Carreras' try, where he brilliantly held the pass to put the new arrival through. He looked burdened at times, weighed down by the extra responsibility that came with Ben Spencer’s absence.7
- 9 Tom Carr-Smith: Filling in for the world-class Ben Spencer was a tough task. Carr-Smith's time on the field was fast-paced and creative, but lacked control. He was key in Bath's third try, using his attacking skills to force a score. Fans may wonder if he controlled the game as effectively as Spencer would have. 6
Forwards
- 8 Alfie Barbeary: Usually an impact player off the bench, Barbeary proved he could influence the game from the start. Arguably Bath's best player, his performance was defined by powerful charges through the Toulon defense. He was everywhere and made a real impact. 8
- 7 Sam Underhill: Shockingly, the England international missed three tackles – a rare occurrence for one of the competition's best tacklers. He did cause issues for the opposition when he had the ball, but his tackling let him down. 5
- 6 Ted Hill: He scored a try and was involved in many of Bath's positive plays, including a huge hit that forced the Toulon winger into touch. With the ball, he gained 42 meters and won most of Bath’s lineouts. However, he turned the ball over to Toulon three times, which can be costly at this level. 7
- 5 Ross Molony: The former Leinster man didn't bring his Champions Cup credentials to this contest. He won a couple of lineouts, made a few tackles, and carried the ball a few times, but overall, his appearance was ineffective. 5
- 4 Quinn Roux: Like his lock partner, he failed to make much of an impact, and when he did, it was ineffectual. He conceded a penalty and missed a couple of tackles at important moments.4
- 3 Billy Sela: He gave away an early free kick in the scrum but held his own afterward. Still young, Sela had a tough task but held the scrum well and did what was asked of him.6
- 2 Tom Dunn: The Bath stalwart once again put his body on the line, with some solid low hits. The lineout struggled at times, but more due to Toulon's tactics than Dunn's abilities.6
- 1 Beno Obano: It was a fascinating clash against former England teammate Kyle Sinckler. Like Sela, Obano was penalized early on, but didn’t put a foot wrong afterwards.6
Replacements: Bath's bench was inexperienced, but they weren't overwhelmed. Ewan Richards made a great break to set up Arthur Green for his try. Louie Hennessey also took his try extremely well after receiving a pass from Ojomoh. Toulon's experience ultimately prevailed, with the more experienced French side guiding the action.7
So, what do you think? Were the player ratings fair? Do you agree with the assessment of Underhill's tackling? Share your thoughts in the comments!