Bordeaux-Bègles debut ends in draw

Bordeaux-Bègles drew 36-36 with Gloucester in their first Champions Cup match, ending a 16-game European winning streak. The match was marked by high-scoring rugby and intense competition between the two teams.

Tom Willis dominates with tackles

Tom Willis, an English number 8 for Bordeaux-Bègles, carried the ball 18 times and broke through 9 defenders, according to data from EPCR. His performance was among the best in the match, with an average of one defender tackled every two carries.

Willis contributes to key tries

Willis played a significant role in two tries, including a maul exit that led to Sipili Falatea’s try in the 19th minute. He also helped set up the first try of Louis Bielle-Biarrey after halftime, using his ability to draw multiple defenders and create space for teammates.

Bordeaux-Bègles struggles with possession

Despite scoring five tries, Bordeaux-Bègles only managed seven entries into the opposing 22 meters, according to Planet Rugby. Gloucester controlled 60% of the possession and scored two tries in quick succession after Bordeaux-Bègles regained the lead.

Bordeaux-Bègles fails to secure bonus points

Bordeaux-Bègles did not earn an offensive bonus point despite scoring five tries, as the new rules require scoring at least three more tries than the opponent. They left the match with two points and no win, acknowledging some errors in managing line breaks and defensive pressure.

Match draws large crowd at Kingsholm

The match was played in front of 12,102 spectators at Kingsholm. Willis’s performance highlighted the potential of a number 8 who can break through defensive lines, but Bordeaux-Bègles will need to turn individual efforts into team success in future matches, starting with their game against the Stormers on December 13.