Bath need realistic goals, says ex-flanker Lewis Moody

Ex-flanker Lewis Moody says Bath must not expect instant success under their new coaching line-up.

Sir Ian McGeechan's tenure last season ended in disappointment after they finished eighth in the Premiership.

McGeechan was replaced by a new-look back-room team in May, headed by former South Africa and London Irish coach Gary Gold.

"There needs to be a realistic understanding of the team's prospects," Moody told BBC Radio Bristol.

"With Gary Gold and a number of new coaches coming in to the mix I'm sure their fortunes will change but I don't think it will be immediate."

Before rugby turned professional in 1996, Bath had won six domestic league titles - then known as Courage League Division One - and 10 domestic cup competitions.

But recent success has been sparse; they have not lifted a trophy since their Challenge Cup victory in 2007-08 and are yet to secure the Premiership.

This is despite the acquisition of several England international players over the years - including Moody, Jeremy Guscott, Steve Borthwick and Mike Catt - and a takeover by millionaire businessman Bruce Craig.

Former England captain Moody, who played at the Rec from 2010 until his retirement this year, believes Bath are capable of living up to expectations but they must be patient to end their four-year drought.

"There has always been the talent at Bath but it's about making it happen on the pitch and that's where we've been going wrong," said the 34-year-old.

"Bruce Craig is keen to see success at Bath again. It's been far too long for this club.

"I'm certainly now of the opinion that Bath are on the right track and will be heading places in the future.

"I don't doubt that there will be silverware in the cupboard.

"How quickly can we do that? I'm not sure. Maybe a couple of years."