Best Premiership Finals Ever Ranked: Greatest Showdowns in English Rugby
The Premiership Rugby final is the biggest match in English club rugby. Played at Twickenham Stadium, it has produced some of the most dramatic, emotional, and unforgettable moments in the sport.
From last-minute tries to extra-time winners, here are the best Premiership finals ever ranked, based on drama, quality, and historical significance.
1. 2004 Final – Wasps 27-20 Bath (Extra Time)
Wasps RFC vs Bath Rugby
Widely regarded as the greatest Premiership final ever, this match had everything.
- Went to extra time
- Huge momentum swings
- Late drama under pressure
Wasps held their nerve to secure victory in one of the most intense finals ever played.
2. 2003 Final – Wasps 39-3 Gloucester
Wasps RFC vs Gloucester Rugby
One of the most shocking finals in history.
- Gloucester were dominant all season
- Entered as clear favourites
- Completely outplayed in the final
Wasps produced a stunning performance to overturn expectations.
3. 2019 Final – Saracens 37-34 Exeter Chiefs
Saracens F.C. vs Exeter Chiefs
A modern classic filled with attacking rugby.
- End-to-end action
- Multiple lead changes
- High-scoring thriller
Saracens edged it in a match that showcased the best of modern Premiership rugby.
4. 2020 Final – Exeter Chiefs 19-13 Wasps
Exeter Chiefs vs Wasps RFC
A tactical and physical battle.
- Played in difficult conditions
- Defence dominated
- Huge significance for Exeter
This win completed a historic double for Exeter, cementing their place among the elite.
5. 2015 Final – Saracens 28-16 Bath
Saracens F.C. vs Bath Rugby
A clash of styles.
- Bath’s attacking flair vs Saracens’ structure
- Tactical masterclass
- High-quality rugby
Saracens’ control and discipline proved decisive.
6. 2022 Final – Leicester Tigers 15-12 Saracens
Leicester Tigers vs Saracens F.C.
A tense, low-scoring thriller.
- Decided by fine margins
- Massive defensive effort
- Huge pressure moments
Leicester edged a tight contest to reclaim the title.
7. 2007 Final – Leicester Tigers 44-16 Gloucester
Leicester Tigers vs Gloucester Rugby
A dominant display.
- High scoring
- Fast-paced attacking rugby
- Statement victory
Leicester showed their class with a powerful performance.
8. 2018 Final – Saracens 27-10 Exeter Chiefs
Saracens F.C. vs Exeter Chiefs
A game defined by control and precision.
- Tactical kicking
- Defensive dominance
- Clinical finishing
Saracens proved why they were one of the best teams of the era.
9. 2013 Final – Leicester Tigers 37-17 Northampton Saints
Leicester Tigers vs Northampton Saints
A high-quality East Midlands derby.
- Fierce rivalry
- Big-match atmosphere
- Strong attacking play
Leicester came out on top in a memorable final.
10. 2014 Final – Northampton Saints 24-20 Saracens
Northampton Saints vs Saracens F.C.
A dramatic comeback victory.
- Saints trailed early
- Strong second-half performance
- Emotional win
One of the most satisfying wins for Northampton fans.
What Makes a Great Premiership Final?
The best finals usually include:
- Close scorelines
- Big moments under pressure
- Tactical battles
- Individual brilliance
- Historic significance
When all these elements come together, you get a classic.
Most Successful Premiership Final Teams
Leicester Tigers
- Multiple titles
- Consistent finalists
Saracens F.C.
- Dominant modern era
- Strong finals record
Wasps RFC
- Famous for big-game performances
Questions Fans Ask
What is the best Premiership Rugby final ever?
The 2004 Wasps vs Bath final is widely considered the greatest.
Where is the Premiership final played?
At Twickenham Stadium in London, the home of England Rugby.
Who has won the most Premiership titles?
Leicester Tigers is the most successful club, with 11 titles coming from their 19 appearances in Premiership Finals.
What was the highest-scoring final?
Several high-scoring finals exist, including Saracens vs Exeter in 2019, finishing 37-34, with Saracens edging the title by a decisive 3 points.
Final Thoughts
The best Premiership finals ever showcase everything great about rugby — drama, skill, passion, and unforgettable moments. From extra-time thrillers to dominant performances, these matches have defined eras of English rugby.
As new finals are played, this list will continue to evolve — but these classics will always be remembered.