In a thrilling and historic night of European rugby at the Principality Stadium, Bath Rugby emphatically ended their 17-year European trophy drought with a resounding 37–12 victory over Lyon Olympique Universitaire to claim the 2025 EPCR Challenge Cup.
A Statement Win for Resurgent Bath
From the outset, Bath demonstrated composure, power, and strategic brilliance. Despite an early setback as Lyon’s Ethan Dumortier crossed the try line in the first 10 minutes, Bath stormed back with four superb tries from Tom Dunn, Max Ojomoh, Beno Obano, and skipper Ben Spencer, who was later named Man of the Match.
Fly-half Finn Russell played a crucial role, converting four tries and slotting two penalties to bring his personal tally to 14 points. Bath’s combination of set-piece dominance, attacking flair, and defensive resilience proved too much for the French side.
Defying the Odds – Even Down to 13 Men
Bath’s defensive steel came under stern scrutiny in the second half when Sam Underhill and Will Muir were both sent to the sin bin in quick succession, temporarily reducing the side to 13 men. However, Lyon failed to fully capitalise on their numerical advantage, managing just one additional try. Bath’s discipline under pressure and tactical kicking game ensured they remained in control until the final whistle.
A European Dream Rekindled
The victory is Bath’s first European silverware since their 2008 Challenge Cup win. The club’s European journey this season has been marked by rejuvenation and tactical clarity, especially after their earlier exit from the Champions Cup. Rather than faltering, the team refocused and surged through the Challenge Cup bracket with purpose.
This win now sets up Bath for a potential domestic treble, with the Premiership Rugby Cup already secured and a home semi-final in the Gallagher Premiership looming.
Club captain Ben Spencer said after the match:
“It’s been a journey of belief and togetherness. This squad has put in the hard yards, and to lift this trophy in front of so many of our travelling fans is a moment we’ll cherish forever.”
A Historic Night Beyond the Scoreline
Beyond the result, the night carried special significance for officiating in rugby union. Hollie Davidson made history as the first female referee to oversee a major men’s European club final, earning widespread praise for her assured handling of the match.
In the stands, over 40,000 Bath fans turned Cardiff into a sea of blue, with club chants echoing throughout the stadium. Their presence was a testament to the pride and loyalty surrounding a club steeped in tradition and now reinvigorated with silverware once more.
What This Means for Bath Rugby
This European Challenge Cup victory reaffirms Bath as a force in English and continental rugby. Head Coach Johann van Graan has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround since taking over, blending international experience with youthful energy.
Bath’s triumphant performance in Cardiff sends a clear message ahead of the Gallagher Premiership semi-finals: this is a team hungry for more. With their attacking patterns clicking and leaders like Spencer and Russell in top form, few would bet against them finishing the season with yet another trophy.
Final Score:
🏉 Bath Rugby 37–12 Lyon OU
Tries: Dunn, Ojomoh, Obano, Spencer
Conversions: Russell (4)
Penalties: Russell (2)
Looking Ahead
Bath’s journey this season has been nothing short of inspirational. From disappointment in the Champions Cup to European glory in the Challenge Cup, the team’s evolution represents a triumph of resilience, smart recruitment, and unified ambition.
As they prepare for the Premiership semi-finals, Bath fans dare to dream of a historic treble — one that would truly define this as a golden season for the West Country club.