Feature: Ashton Gate tips its hat to the past, present and future

Lemi, of course, led the goodbyes – and there were many – entering the arena with his three sons and departing in the 76^th minute to a standing and rousing ovation from more than 13,000 supporters.

Rhodri Williams, Soane Tonga’uiha and Gaston Cortes signed off in style with a try apiece - despite a minor blooper from the scrum-half earlier in proceedings – as departures, goodbyes and a flash to the past formed one of many narratives on the night.

But alongside the list of departing Bristol players, another collective tip to the past saw the biggest crowd of the season honour the memory of Doncaster’s Ian Williams, who passed away in February aged just 27. A minute’s applause in the 27^th minute had an emotional crowd on its feet, reminding everyone – on and off the pitch – that when all is said and done, it really is only a game.

Ten tries – four for Luke Morahan – and an emphatic victory ensured it was the here and now – as well as the past – being celebrated in front of the Sky cameras, as Pat Lam’s men put on an exhibition of free-flowing rugby.

It was, comfortably, the most accomplished performance of the season, as Morahan stole the plaudits with a sensational quartet of tries to sweep Clive Griffiths’ Knights aside.

And while the present was celebrated long into the night, it also offered a potential glimpse of the future at Ashton Gate – a sparkling display, jam-packed stadium and electrifying atmosphere.

The bustling clubhouse and Sports Bar saw fans and players mingling and sharing in the celebration of an impressive season in the GKIPA Championship – a picture perfect portrait of the club’s vision to inspire the community through rugby success.

Another glimpse came in the 70^th minute, when Bristol Grammar School’s Will Capon became the second youngest player in the club’s history to make a league appearance. After the game, Pat Lam admitted he’d had to seek permission from Capon’s teachers to pull him out of class to prepare for the game. Next year, the 18-year-old hooker is set to join the junior academy, where he will link up with a host of talented youngsters intent on inspiring a bright future at the club.

As the 2017/18 season draws towards its conclusion, Bristol Rugby – its players, supporters and management – can reflect on the heroes of the club’s past, revel in the elation and success of the present, and look forward to a bright and exciting future.