Bristol were relegated from the Guinness Premiership after London Irish who are still in the hunt for the title beat them 38-21 at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.
Speaking after the match Bristol coach Paul Hull said that it was a tall order for them to beat the Exiles but was proud of his players.
"We're very, very disappointed but we knew it was a long shot." he told the BBC.
"It's been an emotional rollercoaster over the last five weeks and I'm just proud that the players have stuck at it.
"London Irish was a game too far but at least we played right until the end."
Bristol are now condemned to National League One and ironically their fate was sealed at the same venue as it was in 2003 when they went down the last time.
Rugbyweek.com
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