‘I think he’s worth my money’ – Finn Russell gets the seal of approval after Bath owner’s funny quip
Finn Russell for Bath against Sale in 2024 alongside owner Bruce Craig.
Scotland star Finn Russell appeared to get the seal of approval from Bath owner, Bruce Craig, during their Premiership semi-final triumph.
The 31-year-old has arguably been the signing of the season in England’s top-tier, helping the West Countrymen from also-rans to title challengers.
They finished the campaign in second position, setting up a home semi-final with Sale Sharks on Saturday.
And Russell was once again in impressive form as Bath deservedly overcame their visitors 31-23 to reach the showpiece event.
In fact, he was so good that TNT Sports cameras appeared to catch Craig uttering the words, “I think he’s worth my money” about the outstanding playmaker.
Half-back combination
It was a comment which fellow half-back Ben Spencer agreed with as that duo combined superbly to take the club into their first Premiership final since 2015.
“Unbelievable. He gives the lads so much confidence, brings the best out of people and he’s unbelievable to play next to,” Spencer told TNT Sports.
As for Russell himself, the fly-half was not entirely satisfied with his or Bath’s display, but praised the team’s composure, as well as the forward unit.
“I missed a couple of kicks off the tee, which is a bit annoying for me. I’ve been kicking well since I came back from the Six Nations but I think when it mattered I managed to get a couple of them,” he said.
“Against Sale, they like to kick a lot, out the ball in the air, so we had to manage the game – myself and Spenny.
“First half we were potentially a little bit loose on the exiting and what we can do there, but second half I thought we managed it a lot better.
“With the boys that I’ve got around me and the boys up front, it makes it much easier for me.”
Bath player ratings: Finn Russell and Ben Spencer partnership goes from ‘strength to strength’
Bath enjoyed a superb start, going 18-5 ahead, but Sale responded well and were 23-21 in front with 15 minutes remaining, but the hosts managed to see it through.
"I think he's worth my money!"
Finn Russell reacts to @BathRugby's owner Bruce Craig's comment alongside teammate Ben Spencer 😂#GallagherPrem #BTHvSAL pic.twitter.com/uv01mbyBVU
— Rugby on TNT Sports (@rugbyontnt) June 1, 2024
Belief
“Credit to them, they’re a brilliant team. They put us under a lot of pressure in the second half especially. A breakaway try, before then they got a penalty and went a few points ahead,” Russell said.
“I think it shows the sort of character we’ve built over this season. We’re never out, we’ve got belief and we back ourselves.
“Even when we’re a couple of points behind – I think there were 15-20 minutes to go – but we knew at some point we were going to get a chance, that’s all we need.”
The crowd also played its part, helping them get over the line when they fell behind in the second period.
“The forwards executed which is brilliant, and as always helped by the fans,” Russell added.
“Things are always tough, especially when the margins are smaller, but that belief and trust we’ve built over the season is what won it for us.”
