Bath Rugby forward Ted Hill says Ben Spencer’s leadership has been “spectacular” as the Gallagher PREM champions chase a home Play-Off tie ahead of Friday’s West Country derby against Bristol Bears.
Bath travel to Ashton Gate knowing victory would strengthen their push for a top-two finish and keep them ahead of Leicester Tigers in the race for home-field advantage in the Play-Offs.
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Much of Bath’s success this season has been built around the influence of captain Spencer, who is among the nominees for Gallagher Player of the Season at The Rugby Awards on June 10.
“He’s our captain and the first thing that pops in to my mind is his leadership and the way he leads this team,” Hill told the Gallagher PREM website.
“It’s probably not seen from the outside world but the way he has done that in the time I’ve been here has been spectacular. He does that so well.”
Ted Hill 'Can’t Speak Highly Enough' Of Ben Spencer
Hill also praised Spencer’s all-around game, saying the veteran scrum-half continues to set the standard among the league’s No. 9s.
“People talk about his kicking game but it's his running game too, and his defensive stuff has been top notch,” Hill told the Gallagher PREM website.
“I can’t speak highly enough of him.”
Ted Hill Eyes Return To England Rugby National Team
Spencer could also play a major role for England this summer following Alex Mitchell’s season-ending injury, while Hill admitted he remains determined to force his own way back into Steve Borthwick’s plans despite being critical of his performances this season.
“Personally, I don’t think I have put my best foot forward this year to be in that position but of course that is where I want to be,” Hill told the Gallagher PREM website.
“I will keep working and pushing to be there.”
'There Are Big Standards' For Bath Rugby
The versatile forward, equally comfortable in the second row or back row, said the competition for places at Bath has helped raise standards throughout the squad.
“There are big standards required and if you look across that second row and back row in that team, there is some great rugby being played,” Hill told the Gallagher PREM website.
Friday’s derby comes against a Bristol side eager to respond after conceding 94 points against Northampton Saints in Round 16, but Hill said Bath’s focus remains firmly on themselves as they approach the closing stretch of the season.
“We saw their last game and we know they will be frustrated about that,” Hill told the Gallagher PREM website.
“We have a big couple of games coming up and we know where we want to be at the end of that.
“These are the games you want to be a part of.”
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