Attack-First Rugby Delights Fans at Kingsholm

Gloucester's 53-28 demolition of Bristol Bears in Saturday's West Country derby saw 13 tries and 81 points - exactly the kind of spectacle Premiership Rugby needs according to both clubs. The Cherry & Whites' nine-try haul featured scintillating backline moves that left the capacity Kingsholm crowd electrified.

The Entertainment Debate

Bristol's director of rugby Pat Lam strongly defended the attacking approach:

• "Look at our 23,000 crowd against Exeter and this sell-out here"
• "People want entertainment - our future depends on new fans"
• Cited the recent Principality Stadium clash with Bath as proof of growing interest

Gloucester's attack coach James Lightfoot Brown has transformed their style this season, mirroring Bristol's successful formula:

• Both clubs rank top three for meters gained (Bristol 2nd, Gloucester 3rd)
• Combine for 867 points scored this season (as of matchday)
• League-high 7.4 line breaks per game average between the sides

Defensive Concerns Addressed

Gloucester DoR George Skivington dismissed claims that defense is being neglected:

"Attacks have reached new technical levels - defenses haven't disappeared, they're being stretched like never before."

The Bigger Picture for Premiership Rugby

With three clubs folding since 2022, Lam and Skivington agree the league needs positivity:

• Recent average attendances up 18% post-COVID
• Social media engagement on try highlights increased 42% this season
• Next generation of fans being "hooked by exciting rugby" (Lam)

As Skivington noted: "We'll keep the mauls and scrums for traditionalists, but the game must evolve to survive."