BATH must make their Recreation Ground home a place to be feared for visiting teams again, insists coach Jon Callard.

The west country side's long trip north for their Premiership clash against Newcastle Falcons proved fruitless when yesterday's game was called off because of the wintery conditions.

Bath next face local rivals Bristol Shoguns at home on Saturday

With just two defeats in eight league and cup games on their home turf this season, it would appear that Callard has little to worry about.

But the former England man admits Bath's rivals have been arriving in the city more confident of getting a result as demonstrated by London Irish's impressive cup victory 10 days ago.

"Every home game is crucial to us now,'' conceded Callard, whose side are still languishing near the foot of the table.

"If we're not playing well, sides think of it as a chink in our armour. Perhaps that is what has been happening and we have got to stop that.

"Winning is a habit as much as losing is and we need to get on a roll and get winning consistently because we keep coming to a grinding halt. I'm confident the players can perform and will.

Officials at Kingston Park called off Sunday's match after five inches of snow had covered the North East.

Tickets for the game are non-refundable but will be valid for the re-arranged fixture when announced.