Bristol Bears: Striving for Success in the PWR Top Four
Bristol Bears head coach Dave Ward has issued a rallying cry to his team, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities as they push for a coveted spot in the top four of the Premiership Women’s Rugby table. Despite a recent setback with an unexpected 31-22 defeat by Loughborough Lightning, the Bears are still in contention, sitting in fifth place with just two games remaining in the season.
In a candid interview with BBC Radio Bristol, Ward acknowledged that the team cannot afford to dwell on missed chances, stating, “It’s down to us, we’ve had our opportunities, we’ve missed them.” With Exeter looming as their next opponent, a team currently ahead by a place and two points, the upcoming match holds significant weight in determining their fate.
A Season of Near Misses and Resilience
Reflecting on their recent loss to Loughborough, Ward expressed disappointment at the outcome, highlighting the team’s ability to create scoring opportunities but falling short in converting them. Despite the setbacks, he remained optimistic, noting, “The fact we’ve created the chances is a huge positive for us to hold onto.”
The Bears’ journey to secure a spot in the top four has been marked by near misses and resilience, with last season’s defeat in the final and previous campaign’s semi-final loss serving as motivating factors for the team. Ward emphasized the need for strong performances in the remaining matches to build momentum and ensure a strong showing if they do advance to the semi-finals.
Looking Ahead: Building Momentum for Success
As Bristol gears up to face Exeter in their final home match of the season, Ward underscored the importance of finishing strong and entering the potential semi-final stage with confidence. Drawing from past experiences, he stressed the significance of entering the playoffs in peak form rather than limping in, citing the team’s previous season as a cautionary tale.
“I want us to play well, if we do get to the semi-finals I want us to get there flying rather than limping in,” Ward emphasized. With crucial matches against Exeter and Harlequins on the horizon, he urged his team to elevate their performance and secure a better position in the standings by the end of the season.
In conclusion, Bristol Bears are facing a pivotal moment in their season as they strive to secure a spot in the top four of the Premiership Women’s Rugby table. With coach Dave Ward leading the charge, the team is poised to capitalize on their opportunities, learn from past setbacks, and deliver standout performances in their quest for playoff success. As they prepare to face Exeter in a high-stakes showdown, the Bears are determined to leave their mark and make a statement in the closing stages of the season.
