Bath faced a significant challenge in their 32-14 defeat to Montpellier, a match described as a return to 'old-fashioned style, hard and brutal' rugby. This outcome places Bath at the centre of ongoing discussions regarding the current state of English rugby.
Montpellier, who were beaten finalists in the Top 14 last season and succeeded Bath as Challenge Cup champions, showcased a formidable performance. Despite not fielding their first-choice lineup, they managed to play 'one of England’s finest off their own park every which way'.
Bath's indiscipline was a consistent issue throughout the game, with their efforts often 'dashed against the rocks' of Montpellier's defence. The match featured six tries, a contrast to the 18 tries seen in Bath's recent defeat at Northampton.
Adam Hastings, playing against Finn Russell, delivered a 'mature performance', landing two penalty kicks for Montpellier. His second penalty extended the visitors' lead, which they maintained until the end of the match. Donovan Taofifenua also scored two tries for Montpellier, including an interception of a Finn Russell pass.