Coach Dave Ward describes upcoming matches as a “huge ask” for Bristol Bears

Head coach Dave Ward has stated that his Bristol Bears team faces a “huge ask” in their efforts to secure maximum points from their upcoming Premiership Women’s Rugby fixtures against Sale Sharks and Saracens before the Christmas break. This challenge follows the cancellation of the Bears’ most recent match against Exeter Chiefs last Saturday, which was called off due to Storm Darragh. The team remains unbeaten in their last three Premiership Women’s Rugby games. Despite winning their last three league encounters, which included a victory over reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury, the team currently holds fifth place in the table. They also have a game in hand compared to three of the four teams positioned above them. Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol, Ward commented on the recent cancellation, stating, “In a weird way we just have to look at it as a massive positive – we got a break when most teams haven’t. From that perspective we can now throw everything we’ve got into seven days of Sale into Saracens.” He further elaborated on the team’s objectives for these matches, saying, “If we can come out with anything like eight, nine, or 10 points from those two games we’ve got ourselves into an amazing position in the new year.” Ward acknowledged the difficulty of the task, adding, “It’s a huge ask but it’s one were really looking forward to.” Ward, who extended his contract with the club until 2026 at the close of November, indicated that the fixture against Exeter is “likely” to be rescheduled for 8 February. This potential rescheduling could result in the Bears playing seven consecutive weeks of matches before the regular season games are set to conclude on 22 February. Regarding the new date, Ward explained, “That weekend is the next available weekend for both teams.” He added, “It just means we have seven games off the back of the new year to look forward to.” Ward also noted the possibility of further weather-related disruptions, stating, “If there’s any more games that fall foul of the weather there could be midweek games – we knew this season was always going to be like this.”