Bath, Bordeaux and Stormers fire big shots in Investec Champions Cup

Johann van Graan’s Bath, the Stormers and defending champions Bordeaux made big statements in the opening round of this season’s Investec Champions Cup.

viron Bayonnais and Sale Sharks had the honour of hosting Round 1’s openers on Friday night when they welcomed DHL Stormers and Glasgow Warriors respectively.

Despite unwavering passion, Stade Jean-Dauger’s invincibility finally tumbled for the first time this season. South Africa’s DHL Stormers showed they meant business in Bayonne when Imad Khan went over two minutes into his debut start.

Saturday brought with it a Saracens lesson as they swiped aside ASM Clermont Auvergne, before Union Bordeaux Bègles got their title defence off the perfect start in South Africa.

The reigning champions scored 24 unanswered points in the second half against Vodacom Bulls to complete an historic comeback – they were the first French side to win away at the Bulls’ ring.

Brilliant Bordeaux bulldoze bewildered Bulls

Stade Rochelais and Leinster Rugby both got the better of Leicester Tigers and Harlequins respectively before Bristol Bears had to dig deep to overcome Scarlets by one point.

Closing out Saturday’s action was a masterclass from Bath Rugby. Last season’s EPCR Challenge Cup winners, Bath more than proved why many have them as favourites this year when they flew into a four-try, 18-minute lead at The Rec.

It ended 40-14 to the English side as they look to next week’s trip to RC Toulon.

Finalists Northampton Saints were forced to leave it late by valiant newbies Section Paloise before Stade Toulousain showcased their potential against Hollywoodbets Sharks.

La Rochelle brace for red-hot Stormers in PE

Eight tries, including three for Ange Capuozzo, more than sufficed for Ugo Mola’s men as they out-classed the Sharks 56-19. Oh, and a certain Antoin Dupont made his return to Investec Champions Cup action.

Gloucester Rugby-Castres Olympique and Edinburgh Rugby-RC Toulon closed out a memorable Round 1.