Bath’s Johann van Graan Plots Lyon Ambush as Hollie Davidson Prepares to Make EPCR History

Bath Rugby stand one game away from making history. On Friday night in Cardiff, head coach Johann van Graan will lead his side into the EPCR Challenge Cup Final against French outfit Lyon, marking a pivotal moment in Bath's resurgence and van Graan's evolving legacy in European rugby.

Sitting comfortably at the summit of the Gallagher Premiership table, Bath are enjoying a season of revival under van Graan, the former Springbok assistant coach and Super Rugby winner with the Bulls.

Van Graan's Winning Blueprint

Since moving to Europe in 2017 to coach Munster, the South African tactician has steadily built his reputation, and now, at Bath, he's overseeing a team that blends power with precision. But as South African clubs were shut out of this season’s Champions Cup playoffs, van Graan was diplomatic when asked if their European ambitions are falling short.

“I think you have to ask their coaches,” van Graan said. 

“Obviously I’m South African and proudly so, but I’m currently coaching an English club and loving my time in England. Been fortunate enough to work with players all over the world, whether they are English, Irish, Tongan, Italian, Welsh, Scottish."

“What I’ve learned in Europe is that you need a strong squad, excellent staff, a clear vision and a plan. That’s what we’ve worked on at Bath. This is our first European final as a group, so I wouldn’t say I’m in a position to give other teams advice.”

The European Experience

Van Graan also pointed to the distinct demands of European rugby – particularly the fan culture and logistical challenges that differ from his time in Super Rugby.

“Travel is different here. While the time zones may be similar, the fan support home and away is unbelievable. We’ve seen it when playing Toulouse, Pau, Glasgow, Leinster – the passion travels with the teams. I expect the same in Cardiff," he told SportsBoom.com. 

Despite being questioned on South Africa’s club performances in Europe, van Graan’s focus remains firmly on Bath’s trajectory.

“From an English perspective, I’ll focus on England now,” he added.

Hollie Davidson to Make History

Making headlines of her own this week is Hollie Davidson, who will become the first woman to referee an EPCR final, taking charge of Friday’s clash in Cardiff.

Van Graan was full of praise for Davidson, recalling her steady rise since their first encounter during his Munster days.

"She has been excellent, hasn't she! I remember the first game Hollie refereed a game I was involved in back when I was at Munster against Benetton a couple years ago at Thomond Park. She has grown immensely, I think her first International Test game was last year between South Africa and Portugal in Bloemfontein...I might be wrong on the fact."

"She is extremely capable, she refereed our game [Bath Rugby] against Pau. It was the first win as a group in France and she has got all the respect from our players. We will adapt accordingly to her on Friday night and good luck to her, she has done extremely well."

Underhill Reflects on Past with Davidson

For Bath loose forward Sam Underhill, Davidson’s appointment comes with a personal twist. The flanker was shown a red card by her in the earlier fixture against Pau – but he holds no grudges.

“Yeah, she refereed me against Pau. She’s very clear about what she wants and expects. That’s all we ask from referees – clarity,” Underhill said.

“I probably wouldn’t say it was my best game to reflect on since I got a red card [laughs], but I had no complaints. She handled it really well and is a top referee.”