Head of Rugby Johann van Graan is ‘glad for the people of Bath’ after his Bath Rugby side’s triumph on the final day of the season against Saracens was enough to secure a place in the Heineken Champions Cup next season.

The noise of The Rec when Ollie Lawrence sprinted on to Niall Annett’s flicked pass in the final minute to secure a top eight finish will live with supporters, players and staff for years to come.

There has been progress this season, and there is still a lot to come from the squad in the seasons ahead. But for now, it is time to enjoy what was a fantastic occasion on Saturday, enjoy some downtime before returning full of the same energy and vibrancy for the 2023/24 campaign.

"I am so glad for the people of Bath,” van Graan said. “To get that points difference in that dramatic fashion is incredible. That is the drama of sport and I'm just thankful.

"Saracens came out and played and put us under huge pressure, but what a second-half performance from us. It was a bit of a ding-dong battle and an incredible game of rugby.

“We still have a long way to go. We said we had to become tough to beat and I feel we have. There’s a clear way we play the game now. We became fitter and better. All credit to the players.

"Reaching the top eight is testament to the hard work from a lot of people, and we kept fighting. We talked from the beginning about connection, clarity and commitment. You saw that commitment here today. You can see the belief is back.”

I'm so glad for the people of Bath - van Graan

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