Bath ended their 17-year wait for a major trophy in style, overwhelming Lyon 37-12 in the European Challenge Cup final and reigniting memories of their golden era. It was only their second major title since lifting the Heineken Cup in 1998, and with the Premiership Cup already secured and the Premiership title still within reach, a historic treble is now a realistic ambition.
While the Challenge Cup might not carry the prestige of Europe’s top-tier competitions, Bath’s increasing resilience under knockout pressure is becoming a hallmark of their revival. Their squad depth, tactical awareness, and composure in high-stakes situations proved decisive once again. However, they did benefit from a few controversial officiating calls that could have changed the complexion of the game.
A significant moment came when Sam Underhill received only a yellow card for a high tackle in the first half. It was a borderline incident that could easily have resulted in a red card. The match also marked a landmark occasion with Hollie Davidson becoming the first female referee to officiate a major men’s club final. Her performance was composed, though she faced scrutiny over some key decisions.
Bath’s defensive resilience was particularly impressive during the period they were down to 14, and then 13 men, after Will Muir was also sent to the sin-bin for a challenge in the air. Despite the numerical disadvantage, they did not concede and used the setback as fuel for a powerful second-half display.
Lyon, despite sitting 11th in the Top 14, made a strong start with a flowing move that saw Ethan Dumortier touch down in the right corner within the opening minutes. It took a lengthy TMO review, but the try stood and gave the French side early hope.
Bath, however, responded forcefully. Will Butt’s break through midfield set up sustained pressure, eventually leading to a try from hooker Tom Dunn. Finn Russell added the conversion to put Bath ahead, and from that point on, they never looked back. Spencer’s kicking game proved instrumental, with a pinpoint 50-22 giving Bath another attacking platform. From that, he helped create a try for Max Ojomoh with a superb long pass.
Though Lyon still posed a threat, especially through the electric running of Davit Niniashvili, Underhill’s questionable tackle on him halted a promising break. Shortly after the break, Arno Botha crossed for Lyon to narrow the margin, but Bath were quick to reassert control.
Beno Obano’s close-range effort and Russell’s conversion gave them breathing space again, before Tom de Glanville’s darting run set up Spencer for the decisive score. That try extinguished any lingering Lyon hopes and capped a performance full of authority and intent.
The night will also be remembered for Davidson’s officiating debut in a men’s club final of this magnitude. Her presence highlighted the growing inclusion of women in elite rugby officiating. She later spoke of the need to judge referees by their competence and readiness, not their gender. While debates around high tackle laws continue, her confident handling of the game was a step forward for the sport.
With this commanding win, Bath not only lifted silverware but also sent a powerful message: they are back among Europe’s serious contenders.
