Triumph at The Rec puts smile on Smith’s face

• 11 Dec 2022
• Reaction

Player of the Match Ollie Smith was all smiles following the victory at The Rec against Bath in the opening round of the EPCR Challenge Cup.

A second win away from home – and a tight one at that – saw the game end in a 22-19 win for the Warriors, following a nail-biting final few minutes of strong Glasgow defence.

“We knew it was going to be a tough game, but we knew if we stuck to our processes and kept to our loose, fast game, we would get the result and we did.” Smith told glasgowwarriors.org following the final whistle.

“At half-time we spoke about when we had the ball we were cutting them apart, they couldn’t deal with our attack.

“Our defence in the second half was outstanding, we were defending for a good five to 10 minutes which is ultimately what won us the game. In tight games like that the defence is going to have to win it and we knew that and we did that.

“We have spoken a lot about having pride in our 22, something we have maybe lacked a bit against Zebre Parma last week. Our maul defence wasn’t as good and we were letting them in to our 22 and they were scoring, but this week we made them really work for it and they didn’t score any easy tries, they really had to work for it.”

Smith also paid tribute to the legions of the Warrior Nation that made the trip to The Rec, with the travelling fans making themselves seen and heard throughout the 80 minutes.

“It is always nice to see some Glasgow fans in the stands,” said Smith

“Seeing family and friends and the fans who come down after games, and having fans in the stand cheering you on, is always great for the mood.

“We’re very thankful for the extra support and encouragement, especially when we needed it most.”

Next weekend sees Glasgow Warriors take on Perpignan in the next game of the EPCR Challenge Cup.  After three away games, a game on home soil is a comfort but after two wins it’s all about carrying the momentum forward.

“We can take that forward into next week, we can take that forward into anyone really,” Smith nodded.

“Coming to Bath was a tough place to play with the crowd right on top of you but it was great to be able to defend that well.

“I’m stoked for next weekend’s game. It’s been a tough run of three away games but coming off the back of two wins, everyone is excited to be back under the lights at Scotstoun next Friday.”