Saints fall short against a game management masterclass away to Bath RFC.

The Woollams outfit travelled to Bath looking to press on after gaining momentum off the back of 2 wins.

The first half ended scoreless, with OA’s playing some of their best rugby of this season ball in hand. Both teams struggled to gain territory and field position on the opposition 22.

After the interval, Saints looked to gain the initiative by raising the tempo of the game and stretching the home defence. However, after missed opportunities and fantastic scramble defence, the Saints were kept scoreless

Bath gained field position deep in the OA’s half, building the phases, they worked their way around the Saints defence to take the lead 5-0.

The Bath fly half consistently pushed the away side back into their half with proving kicks, nullifying any momentum gained by the Saints. This kicking proved crucial, as Bath’s superior game management lead to their victory, after securing a second score, taking the final score to 10-0.

Whilst the Saints has some brilliant passages of play ball in hand, they will rue their inability to convert these passages into points on the board, as well as their lack of game management.

The Saints will look to bounce back next week at home against Hove RFC

Paul Adams,

Saints Manager