After topping the URC regular season, Glasgow lost 22-21 to the Bulls in the semi-final. Head coach Franco Smith says that disappointment is the team’s fuel as they open the new campaign away to Munster.
Glasgow finished top of the URC regular season but lost the semi-final to the Bulls 22-21 and are using that defeat as motivation.
Franco Smith warns there are no easy fixtures in the URC and expects teams to target Glasgow after last season’s form.
Significant squad turnover this summer: several departures and arrivals, including Jamie Ritchie and Ruwald van der Merwe joining.
Franco Smith says Glasgow Warriors are motivated by the way last season ended. After topping the regular-season table, Glasgow lost the semi-final at home to the Bulls by a single point (22-21). Smith describes that defeat as usable disappointment and says the squad is focused on being the best version of itself heading into the new United Rugby Championship campaign.
Glasgow's regular-season performance set expectations. Smith noted the team had been top of the log despite earlier setbacks during the season, and he stated that the semi-final loss leaves a target on Glasgow's back. He framed the defeat as a clear source of motivation rather than something to dwell on.
Smith's public position is straightforward: there are no easy games in the URC. He pointed to the improving standards across the competition and warned that every opponent will be aiming to climb the table. The coach emphasized focus on internal standards—"determined to be the best version of ourselves"—and the need to channel last season's disappointment into energy and preparation.
Glasgow open their URC campaign with a trip to Munster at Thomond Park. Smith singled out Jamie Dobie, selected on the wing, who will make his 100th appearance for the Warriors. Smith described Dobie as a versatile contributor who sets an example for younger players regardless of the position he plays.
Smith frames last season's narrow semi-final defeat as constructive fuel. Glasgow enter the URC with personnel changes and a message of focused improvement. The trip to Munster will be an early indicator of how well the team has reset and whether they can convert disappointment into results.
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