Saracens delivered a powerful statement of intent to kick off their European Champions Cup campaign, running in seven tries to demolish a weakened Clermont Auvergne side 47-10 at a rain-soaked StoneX Stadium.
Depleted Clermont Overwhelmed by Sarries' Power
From the outset, the challenge facing the visiting French side was immense. Clermont arrived in north London with a callow, injury-hit squad and were always likely to struggle against a Saracens team brimming with international class, even without England stars Maro Itoje, Ben Earl, and Jamie George.
The visitors showed early spirit in defence, but the dam broke before half-time. After resisting for half an hour, Clermont conceded three tries in a devastating ten-minute spell before the interval. By the break, Saracens had secured the try bonus point and led 26-0, effectively ending the contest.
Teenage Talent Caluori Announces Himself on European Stage
The match was a breakout performance for 19-year-old wing Noah Caluori, who was a constant threat throughout. His most memorable moment came in the second half with a spectacular individual try. Receiving the ball near halfway, Caluori embarked on a phenomenal arcing run, showcasing blistering acceleration and perfect balance to leave the Clermont defence grasping at thin air.
He was instrumental in the opening try as well, demonstrating impressive aerial skills to bat back an Owen Farrell kick for Elliot Daly, who then set up the first of two tries for Argentina international Lucio Cinti.
Ruthless Saracens Capitalise on French Errors
Saracens' victory was built on clinical finishing and capitalising on Clermont errors. After Cinti's first, Max Malins pounced on a misjudgement from Clermont's Bautista Delguy to score. Hooker James Hadfield then powered over from close range following more indifferent defending.
Clermont did manage two consolation scores through Axel Guillaud and fly-half Harry Plummer, but Saracens responded instantly on both occasions. First through Caluori's stunning solo effort, and then via a clever Daly dummy that sent lock Hugh Tizard over. Replacement Theo Dan added a late seventh try to complete the rout.
The statistics painted a bleak picture for Clermont, who spent a mere 3% of the match in the Saracens 22. Referee Hollie Davidson also yellow-carded Clermont openside Anthime Hemery in the first half for a technical offence.
Looking Ahead to a Sterner South African Test
While this was a comfortable start for Mark McCall's men, they are under no illusions about the stiffer tests that lie ahead. Next Saturday, Saracens travel to Durban to face the Sharks in a match that promises to be far more physically demanding.
This emphatic win, however, provides the perfect platform. With young talents like Caluori emerging and experienced heads like Farrell and Daly directing play, Saracens have laid down a significant early marker in this season's Champions Cup.
