Gloucester Rugby maintained their grip atop Pool A in the PREM Rugby Cup with a thrilling 19-17 victory over West Country rivals Bath on Friday night. Central to this success was fly-half George Barton, whose composed and strategic play proved decisive despite challenging weather conditions caused by Storm Claudia.
Both teams battled fiercely in the rain, each crossing the try-line three times. Gloucester’s first-half tries came from Josh Hathaway, Kealan Freeman Price, and Will Knight, giving them a 19-12 halftime lead. Although they failed to add points in the second half, Gloucester’s resolute defence, underpinned by Barton’s tactical kicking, ensured they held firm for back-to-back wins following their recent 29-28 triumph at Sale Sharks.
At 25, Barton commanded the game with impressive coolness and a diverse arsenal of passes and kicks that continuously tested Bath’s defence. Despite limited Premiership appearances this season due to injury, he has featured in all four PREM Rugby Cup games, gradually staking his claim for the starting fly-half jersey. Previously viewed more as a full-back by director of rugby George Skivington, Barton’s recent form is making the coaching staff reconsider his role.
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After the match, Gloucester’s defence coach Dom Waldouck praised Barton and acknowledged the competitive environment for the number 10 position. “We’ve brought in Ross Byrne, an exceptional player, and Charlie Atkinson, an England A squad member. George has taken his chance in the PREM Cup block brilliantly, not just with his performances but his leadership too. He’s knocking on George Skivington’s door, giving him a nice headache when it comes to selection,” Waldouck explained.
Wide receiver Josh Hathaway and 18-year-old centre Will Knight also impressed. Hathaway opened Gloucester’s scoring with a try crafted from a precise lob by Barton, sparking the hosts’ momentum leading to Knight’s score on the left wing. Waldouck likened Knight to “the next Will Greenwood,” referencing the England World Cup winner known for his skillful centre play.
“He’s smooth on the ball with great talent. His defence is accurate, though he’ll grow more physical with experience,” said Waldouck. “There’s good competition in the back three now, with talents like Rob Russell returning from injury.”
Looking ahead to their upcoming Gallagher Premiership clash against Quins on November 29, Waldouck emphasized the value of the PREM Rugby Cup performances. “Everyone who has worn the shirt in the last few weeks has put their hand up, which is exactly what George wanted from this group — to shine for selection talks and to fight together as a unit,” he stated.
Bath’s tries came from Austin Emens, Ethan Staddon, and Tyler Offiah. However, missed conversions and a penalty by teenage fly-half James Linegar contributed to their narrow defeat.
Gloucester Rugby (Starting XV): Jake Morris (15), Josh Hathaway (14), Will Knight (13), Max Knight (12), Jack Cotgreave (11), George Barton (10), Mikey Austin (9), Dian Bleuler (1), Kealan Freeman-Price (2), Nepo Laulala (3), Cam Jordan (4), Hugh Bokenham (5), Deian Gwynne (6), Harry Taylor (C, 7), Will Trenholm (8).
Replacements included debutant Rhys Price and Harrison James (on loan).
Bath Rugby (Starting XV): Austin Emens (15), Tyler Offiah (14), Charlie Griffin (13), Will Butt (12, C), Sam Winters (11), James Linegar (10), Neil le Roux (9), Scott Kirk (1), Jasper Spandler (2), Kieran Verden (3), Will Jeanes (4), Harvey Cuckson (5), Ethan Staddon (6), Thompson Cowan (7), George Timmins (8).
Referee: Hamish Grant. Assistant referees: Neil Chivers and Greg Macdonald.