Pat Lam play hosts to Wasps in this tough fixture
The struggling Bears welcome Lee Blackett's men to Ashton Gate in a match that could prove key to the Bristol-based club's chances of survival. Conversely, the Wasps have had a solid season thus far with fans enjoying a peril free this year without any real hope of challenging the league's big hitters. Last time the two met saw Wasps beat Bristol 44-8 in Coventry with tries for Crossdale, Shields, Frost, Willis and Kibridge; four conversions by Gopperth and two penalties Umaga enough to see of the South West side. Lahiff scored the only try for the Bears with Sheedy converting.
About Bristol Bears
Following a disappointing relegation to the Greene King Championship in the 2016/17 season, Bristol Rugby shone in the following campaign, securing their return to rugby's top division at the first time of asking.
Rebranded as the Bristol Bears and playing at a refurbished Ashton Gate Stadium, the side endured an up-and-down first season back in the top flight, finishing ninth before a fantastic 3rd place finish in the delayed 2019/20 season before succumbing to Wasps in the play offs semi final. The Bears pushed on impressively under the stewardship of head coach Pat Lam, however, winning their first-ever European Challenge Cup at the tail end of the 2019/20 season.
The club continued this impressive form last season, winning 17 out of 22 matches and achieved their highest ever finish by being top of the table at the end of the normal season. However, the Bears' season ended in disappointment as they lost to eventual champions Harlequins at Ashton Gate in the semi-finals. Despite a successful campaign, Pat Lam's side will be hoping to go a step further in the 2021/22 season.
Find a full fixture list and follow updates on the club's official website.