Gloucester hold defending champions Union Bordeaux-Bègles to stalemate

Gloucester Rugby and Bordeaux-Bègles played out a thrilling 36–36 draw in their Investec Champions Cup opener at Kingsholm Stadium.

Gloucester impressed with their attacking intent, scoring three tries in the first half and using quick ball movement to put the defending champions under pressure. George Barton was influential for the hosts, while Bordeaux remained dangerous through the attacking threat of Louis Bielle-Biarrey and the power of Tom Willis.
Both sides traded scores in an entertaining contest, with neither able to establish a decisive advantage. Gloucester finished with 54% possession and made 12 line breaks, compared with Bordeaux’s nine, but the French side stayed in contention to secure a share of the points.

Final score: Gloucester 36–36 Bordeaux-Bègles.