Exeter 16 - 25 Bristol: Spirits high but future uncertain

Try: Tom Arscott scores for Bristiol in the top-of-the-table clash at Exeter (Pictures: Gary Bray / UNiCOM www.unicomsystems.co.uk)

Exeter Chiefs 16 Bristol 25

By Ben Sturnham

As predicted, capping off 2009 in fine form, Bristol turned Exeter Chiefs over at Sandy Park. Much to the delight of the Bristol supporters, James Phillips sealed the victory, with a bonus point score on 70 minutes.

For the first time this season Bristol are on top of the Championship, leading Exeter by four points and will now, undoubtedly, feel in greater control of their destiny, with vital confidence gained by finishing the year at the top of the table. Add to this the imminent arrival of star centre, Alex Crockett and you can see why spirits are running high.

The RFU have recently confirmed that the ‘Play-Off Final’ will be played over two legs and will be based on an aggregate score, which should suit the team in form. There is a lot more rugby and hard work to go but Bristol should now believe they are real contenders for the promotion race.

Over and out: Adrian Jarvis adds to Bristol's total at Exeter

I feel that Bristol will be faced with several key challenges in the New Year:

Can they maintain consistency in form throughout the winter months and then adapt to the better weather conditions during the ‘knock-out’ stages of the competition?
Are they able to deal with the mantle of becoming favourites again?
Finally, will be there be enough depth to the squad, to allow for key players, that may be ruled out due to injury in the coming months?

Whichever team gains promotion, they will only guarantee their status after the last play, in the final game. The reason this makes planning so difficult is because the commercial and playing budgets are drastically different in the top flight compared to the Championship.

Many top players will only sign for Bristol if they are promoted back into the Premiership. Alongside this, the next season’s playing budget can only be allocated once the promotional race has finished. While in pole position, Bristol’s future is still fragile, until their position in the league is decided.

In the meantime, rugby continues over the festive period. Bristol will be back in action on New Year’s Day, entertaining the Cornish Pirates at the Memorial Stadium.

I predict a competitive game that Bristol should win by a couple of scores.