HEAD coach Tabai Matson says Bath are wary of a Bristol backlash in this weekend’s derby clash.

Mark Tainton’s men are rock bottom of the Aviva Premiership table and in a real scrap for survival as they look to avoid being relegated back to the Championship after just one season back in the top-flight.

Bath, meanwhile, have been flying high virtually all term and are in the midst of a battle for a top-four finish and qualification for the end-of-season play-offs.

Todd Blackadder’s side have already beaten their near neighbours three times this season, most recently 57-22 away from home in the European Challenge Cup in mid-January.

However, fellow New Zealander Matson is taking nothing for granted at Ashton Gate on Sunday.

“Before this season, I think most of our guys had probably not played in this derby before but right now, it’s pretty clear to everyone how important this game is,” said Matson.

“It’s a big game anyway but it’s a critical one for Bristol because they have got their backs against the wall, and are desperate for every point.

“We will know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, so I think it’s going to be a bit of a game of chess to begin with, where we are trying to figure each other out.

“I think they are going to be a different animal in the Premiership to that last game and it’s going to be in front of a full house in an intimidating environment in front of the passionate Bristol fans, so we’ve got to rise to that challenge.

“I think everyone would agree that they are clearly a much better side than their record says this year and it’s going to be a tough game for us.”

Bath made it two wins from two during this crucial batch of Premiership fixtures that coincide with the Six Nations last weekend when they overcame Harlequins 22-12 at The Rec.

Matson admits the current period is tough to contend with, particularly in training, but is delighted by how well Bath are standing up to it.

“We try to plough on as much as we can but the quality on the training field does start to dip slightly simply because of the lack of numbers, but we have made the best of it so far and we’re doing okay,” said Matson.