Sale Sharks launched the new Premiership season with a solid 27-10 victory over Gloucester at the CorpAcq Stadium, claiming a bonus point in the process. Despite a workmanlike display that was heavy on set-piece dominance rather than free-flowing rugby, the result left Sale in a strong position after the first round of fixtures.
The match saw tries from Tom Roebuck, Nathan Jibulu, Joe Carpenter, and Hyron Andrews, with the Sharks relying on their forward power and George Ford’s precision to control the game. Although it was not the most exhilarating contest, Sale’s methodical approach and solid game management were more than enough to secure the win.
Sale’s dominance at scrum time played a pivotal role in the victory. Gloucester struggled to deal with the powerful Sharks pack, which earned them penalties and territorial advantage. Ford was instrumental in converting those opportunities into points, ensuring Sale maintained a lead throughout the second half. His smart penalty kick stretched Gloucester’s deficit to five points, making it hard for the visitors to mount a significant comeback.
Gloucester did manage to grab a first-half lead through Jack Clement’s try, following a scrum penalty, but their inability to capitalise on key moments in the second half cost them dearly. The visitors, despite showing fight in patches, struggled with inaccuracies in the lineout and lacked the consistency needed to challenge Sale. When Clement was sent to the sin-bin for collapsing a maul, Sale seized the opportunity to push ahead, with Jibulu’s pushover try putting them back in control.
In the closing stages, Carpenter sealed the win with a try in the corner after a perfectly weighted pass from Ford. Andrews’ late score confirmed the bonus point, ensuring the Sharks could begin their campaign on a high note. The victory was a well-earned one, marked by solid set-piece work, clinical decision-making, and leadership from Ford.
While it was not the most thrilling spectacle, the result reflected a well-rounded, disciplined performance from Sale that will give them confidence as the season progresses.
