Challenge Cup Highlights: Pau vs Gloucester Rugby

Pau ran out 27-21 victors over Gloucester in this Challenge Cup opener at Stade du Hameau tonight. The home side got off to a flying start, scoring two unanswered converted tries in the opening 25 minutes of play leaving the half time scores at 14-0. Pau started the second half as they had ended the first, piling the pressure on Gloucester, forcing two penalties which Slade duly slotted. Gloucester mounted a late comeback with tries from Ackermann, Vellacott and Purdy but a Frank Halai intercept was enough to clinch victory for the French side. Pau will be delighted to have started their European campaign on a positive note and will be hoping they can continue this impressive form as the tournament wears on. Gloucester on the other hand will be disappointed to have been beaten but will take solace in their impressive performance level and securing of a losing bonus point which could prove crucial at the end of the group stage.