The Bristol Bears players have been given an extra jump in their step at the thought of kicking the 2022/23 Gallagher Premiership season off with a win over derby rivals Bath Rugby, Pat Lam confirmed.
For the third time in five years Bristol will get their season underway under the Friday night lights at Ashton Gate against Bath and after both side's started their campaigns poorly last season there will be added emphasis on getting off to a flying start.
In 2021/22, Bristol were beaten by Saracens on the opening night of the season and went on to finish a highly disappointing 10th having been at the summit of the table the previous year heading into the play-offs.
