Two of the three English clubs remaining in Europe’s premier domestic competition clash in the second match of the quarterfinals. Such representation shows the game in England is in better than rude health.
Bath, the current European Challenge Cup champions (the “junior” Heineken Cup), will clash with the Tiger’s in only their second match against each other. The first was the epic quarterfinal clash in 2006, which saw Bath defy the odds with only 13 men at the death to down the Tigers 15-12 at Walkers Stadium.
For both sides, currently in the top four of the Guinness Premiership, they have contrasted recent fortunes. Especially considering that throughout the late 80s and early 90s these two teams were the Goliaths of the English club history.
The Tigers can lay convincing claim to being the finest team in the professional era in English rugby. They lead the Premiership table, and between 1998 and 2002 under the control of Martin Johnson, were practically unbeatable—winning four straight English titles and becoming the only team to ever win back to back Heineken Cup crowns.
They are the only English side to have qualified for every Heineken Cup, and as well winning two titles and two runners up “gongs”, they have only three times not finished in the final eight.
Bath, though, have not fulfilled the pedigree displayed in their earlier years. From 1988 to 1996 Bath won six English championships, and in only their second year in Heineken Cup competition, won Europe’s premier title.
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Tigers Roar Too Much For Bath
Tigers Roar Too Much For Bath
