It may not have been the result that Bath Rugby were looking for on the pitch against Stade Francais in the Heineken Cup last weekend, but whilst the players were battling it out 10 lucky competition winners were treated to a rather more relaxing day as they were given a spectacular experience to remember, courtesy of the tournament's proud title sponsor, Heineken.
To celebrate the 15th season of the Heineken Cup, and their long association over that period since the competition's inception, Heineken invited the lucky winners to an exclusive 'behind the scenes' build up to the big match.
The group, who had entered a competition through Heineken's media partner, The Guardian/Observer, were met and hosted by Bath and Wales centre Tom Cheeseman, and given a fascinating insight into The Rec on match day.
Not only did they visit both changing rooms shortly before kick off, they were also invited on to the pitch ahead of the big game for a privileged view of The Rec. Tom also took them to other areas of Bath's unique ground, before the winners were photographed with the Heineken Cup trophy won by Bath in 1998. Finally, they were treated to a pre match meal, a couple of pints of Heineken, and an all important VIP seat to the match! A shame the result wasn't quite what Bath were looking for, but certainly a day to live long in the memory for these lucky competition winners!
Heineken's match day activity at The Rec didn't end there either, as rugby fans were given a chance to have their photo taken with the Heineken Cup trophy, which was on display at leading Heineken outlet, The Pig and Fiddle, just a short walk from the ground. It was an opportunity too good to miss, with many rugby fans enjoying the Heineken Cup atmosphere in the lead up to the big match and taking the opportunity to get up close to the leading trophy in the club rugby game.
For more details on how to win the Heineken Hot Seats, which will return for rounds three and four (11 - 13th and 18 - 20th December), please visit www.guardian.co.uk/sport/heineken-cup from 23rd November.