Losing run bites as Bath defeat condemns London Welsh to drop
LONDON Welsh coach Rowland Phillips insists the club will bounce back after defeat against Bath yesterday – their 18th consecutive loss – confirmed their relegation from the Premiership.
The Exiles, who came straight back up last season after being demoted to the Championship in 2013, mustered two tries but could not prevent Bath from prevailing 29-14 at the Kassam Stadium in Oxford.
“We had a lot of positives today and we will be looking to build on that performance. The club is too proud just to switch off and accept defeat,” said Phillips, who succeeded Justin Burnell last month.
“There is always speculation and rumour at this time of the season, but the key thing is that you learn your lessons. We know we are relegated but our ambition to come back is greater than ever.”
Bath’s bonus-point win, following two touchdowns from Leroy Houston and one apiece from Sam Burgess, Rob Webber and Alatofi Faosiliva, lifted them to third. Welsh replied through Nic Reynolds and Opeti Fonua.
“They didn’t give up and they played with plenty of enthusiasm,” Bath coach Mike Ford said of London Welsh, who are bidding to avoid an entire season of losses.
“Unfortunately they didn’t get their foundation right in the pre-season so once that happens you are virtually screwed.”