Sale Sharks put on a commanding performance against Bristol Bears, thrashing them 38-0 at Ashton Gate on December 27, 2024, which only served to underline their title credentials.
Throughout the match, the Sharks showcased their tenacity, and it all began just three minutes after the kickoff. Scrum-half Raffi Quirke breached Bristol's defense with a stunning solo try, marking the beginning of what turned out to be a spectacular evening for Sale. Rob du Preez converted, and with early momentum firmly established, the Sharks seemed poised to dominate.
Bristol Bears, hoping to secure the top position on the Gallagher Premiership table, faced immediate setbacks. Key player Ellis Genge withdrew from the starting lineup due to back spasms, rearranging their forward pack. The lack of Genge's presence was noticeably challenging for Bristol, who could not compete with Sale's physical play. Compounding their woes, fly-half AJ MacGinty was reported to be facing four months out with a knee injury, which left Bristol's offense struggling for alternatives.
Tragedy struck for the hosts midway through the first half when Harry Randall received yellow for pulling down Sale hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie off the ball. This incident occurred just as the Bears were attempting to find their rhythm, serving only to amplify the Sharks' advantage.
Further extending their lead, Sale capitalized on this advantage. Tom Roebuck, on the receiving end of a long pass from George Ford, completed the try with ease. Du Preez's successful conversion resulted in a 17-0 scoreline, and it was evident the Bears were struggling to respond.
Adding to his growing tally, Du Preez kicked two penalties and three conversions throughout the game, reinforcing his role as Sale's main point scorer. Ford also dropped a goal, bringing Sale's first-half tally to 20 points. The Bears, on the other hand, entered halftime without getting on the scoreboard, something they had not experienced since 2016.
The second half did not bring any relief for Bristol as their struggles continued. Ben Curry's interception and subsequent try just past the midway point of the third quarter sealed Sale's fate as the dominant force of the match. At this moment, the score stood at 30-0, with Du Preez converting once again.
Despite their hardships, Bristol fought valiantly, but every effort was thwarted by Sale's impervious defense. A noteworthy moment came when Gabriel Oghre, coming off the bench, nearly breached the Sharks' defense but was denied due to failing to maintain control, emblematic of Bristol's frustrating evening.
With time winding down, Sale secured their bonus point try as Tom O'Flaherty finished off with style, concluding the match at 38-0. The Sharks had not only halted Bristol’s momentum but also delivered a potent message to their competitors about their aspirations for the title this season.
Post-match, attention turned to the Bears, who came off the field reflecting on their inability to get onto the scoreboard, recognizing the need to regroup quickly if they hoped to maintain their league position.
It was undoubtedly Sale's night at Ashton Gate, with their players showcasing both skill and fortitude—a performance for the ages.
