Glasgow Warriors produced a stunning second-half fightback to snatch a dramatic 26-21 victory from Sale Sharks in their Investec Champions Cup opener at the Salford Community Stadium. The win, sealed by a decisive try from centurion Stafford McDowall, condemned an injury-hit Sale to a worrying fifth defeat of the season.
Sale's early dominance unravels
The match began in perfect fashion for the home side, who raced into a 14-0 lead within the first 20 minutes. Captain Ernst van Rhyn powered over from close range in just the second minute, with fly-half Rob du Preez adding the conversion.
The Sharks' momentum continued despite an early injury to centre Rekeiti Ma'asi-White. His replacement, 19-year-old Ollie Davies, scored a superb try on his Champions Cup debut just three minutes after coming on. A break from full-back Arron Reed, deputising for absent England internationals, set up Davies for a clear run to the line.
Glasgow's relentless response
Despite the early setback, the Scottish side, packed with international talent, began to find their rhythm. The Warriors' pressure told before half-time with two crucial tries. Hooker Gregor Hiddleston was driven over in the 32nd minute, before flanker Rory Darge dotted down just before the interval.
Adam Hastings' conversion of Darge's score cut Sale's lead to just two points at the break, setting the stage for a remarkable second-half turnaround.
Twenty-six unanswered points seal the win
Glasgow seized the initiative immediately after the restart. A poor box kick from Sale scrum-half Raffi Quirke was pounced on by wing Kyle Steyn, who showed impressive pace and power to score. Just twelve minutes later, the comeback was complete.
On his 100th appearance for Glasgow, centre Stafford McDowall capitalised on more slack Sale defence to canter over from close range. With Hastings' conversion, the Warriors had scored 26 unanswered points to lead 26-14.
Sale's slump continues
A late try from centre Marius Louw, converted by Du Preez, brought Sale back within five points and set up a tense finale. However, the home side could not find a match-winning score, falling to a second consecutive home defeat following last week's collapse against Exeter Chiefs.
For Sale director of rugby Alex Sanderson, the result extends a concerning run of form. His side, missing key England players like George Ford, Tom Roebuck, and Luke Cowan-Dickie through injury, have now lost four of their six Premiership games and started their European campaign with a defeat.
The victory marks Glasgow's second consecutive Champions Cup win over Sale and provides the perfect start to their European campaign, earning a valuable bonus-point win on the road.
