Toulon Triumph Over Bath in Breathtaking Champions Cup Encounter

Toulon Secures Vital Victory Against Bath

The RCT took its first points in the Champions Cup this season by defeating Bath 43-34 on Sunday, 14 December, in a thrilling Round 2 encounter at Stade Félix Mayol. The match finished with a score of 45-34, a bonus-point victory that allowed Toulon to completely relaunch their Champions Cup campaign following a disappointing opening-round loss to Edinburgh.

This result carries significant importance for both sides. For Toulon, it represented an essential opportunity to recover after their Round 1 defeat. Bath, meanwhile, arrived in France as leaders of the Gallagher Premiership, hoping to cement their credentials as genuine European contenders.

A High-Octane Contest From Start to Finish

The match showcased the finest qualities of European rugby, with both teams exchanging tries and momentum throughout the 80 minutes. The first half ended with a tight scoreline of 18-13 in Toulon’s favour, setting the stage for an even more explosive second period.

Charles Ollivon, named player of the match, delivered a commanding performance with double-digit tackle count and highest ruck involvements, anchoring Toulon’s forward dominance. Lewis Ludlam scored a crucial bonus-point try in the 66th minute when Toulon led by just one point, giving the home side breathing room.

Bath fought valiantly throughout, with their attack consistently threatening. The visitors reduced the deficit to 38-34 through a try by Hennessey, keeping the match alive until the final moments.

Dramatic Finale Shapes Pool Standings

The match’s conclusion proved pivotal for the pool standings. Teddy Baubigny scored Toulon’s fifth and final try on the final whistle, sealing the victory. This closing try stripped Bath of a second losing bonus point and handed Toulon the maximum return, as Bath were within seven points at 38-34 but the late surge pushed the score to 45-34.

Bath left Stade Mayol with a four-try bonus point in this 45-34 loss but little else. The denial of that additional point could prove crucial when determining which teams progress from Pool 2 and secure home advantage in the knockout stages.

For Toulon, this performance demonstrated their credentials as serious Champions Cup contenders. The victory not only revitalised their European campaign but also showcased their formidable home advantage at Félix Mayol. Bath, despite the defeat, proved they can compete at the highest level and will look to bounce back in subsequent rounds with their talented squad.