DIRECTOR of rugby Todd Blackadder insists the fall-out from Bath’s 53-10 humbling at Saracens rests on his shoulders as the Rec side face a potentially critical fortnight in their season.

Blackadder’s men were swept aside by the Premiership champions in the second half at Allianz Park on Sunday - a third straight defeat which saw them lose possession of the fourth play-off place in the table.

The New Zealander was unable to contain his disappointment at his side’s capitulation, but is determined they will not retreat into their shells for Saturday’s European Challenge Cup quarter final against French side Brive (12.45pm) and the following weekend’s ‘The Clash’ in the Aviva Premiership against Leicester at Twickenham.

“First and foremost, I have got to take responsibility for that (the Saracens loss) and ownership of it,’’ he told the Wiltshire Times.

“It’s on me. We’re obviously really disappointed and gutted with the performance.

“One thing about Sunday was a reality check.

“It was a kick up the backside and one that we needed.’’ Blackadder admits his side failed to cope with the pressure exerted by Sarries, heaping mistake upon mistake, but will resist making wholesale changes for this weekend’s European test.

England fly-half George Ford will sit out the last-eight clash, with his club resting him after the amount of top-level rugby he has played in recent weeks.

Wales No 10 Rhys Priestland is in the frame to direct operations from fly-half while hooker Ross Batty is “touch and go’’, suffering from a knee problem and prop Max Lahiff may also be an injury concern.

“We kicked too much ball away and kicked out on the full and invited them (Saracens) to come and have another go at us,’’ he added.

“Pressure can do that to you and it’s important we get back on track.

“We’re not going to tighten up. The bucks stops with me.

“Apportioning blame in a short turnaround won’t do us any good at all and it will be time for the players to take ownership and step up and play good rugby.

“We’ve got to be able to handle pressure.’’ Bath have signed fly-half Josh Lewis from Welsh side Ebbw Vale for next season.

The 25-year-old also amassed more than 350 points in his 36 games for Welsh Premiership side Llanelli RFC.

Forward Matt Garvey has agreed a new contract with Bath.

The 29 year old, who can play at lock and in the back row, has made 91 appearances to date and is currently completing his recovery from injury.