Tigers fall to Saracens in epic contest

Leicester Tigers have fallen to Saracens 29-22 at Mattioli Woods Welford Road in what was a titanic Gallagher Premiership battle.

First Half

The game started with high intensity, and Saracens struck first through captain Jamie George, who powered over from close range after a sustained period of pressure, the visitors converting to make it 7-0.

Tigers responded swiftly, determined to capitalise on their territory. After several powerful phases from the pack, Handré Pollard sent Freddie Steward charging through the defensive line to level the scores. Pollard added the extras (7-7).

Saracens regained the lead through a break in midfield, with Juan Martin Gonzalez finishing off a sharp offload from Theo McFarland. Another conversion stretched the lead to 14-7.

Pollard showcased his cool-headed precision with a well-taken drop goal in the 25th minute, narrowing the gap to 14-10. However, Saracens struck again through an Alex Lozowski drop goal, restoring their seven-point advantage.

Just before the break, Tigers found a crucial score. After a powerful drive from Freddie Steward, the forwards kept the pressure on, and Hanro Liebenberg forced his way over the line. Pollard’s conversion attempt from the left corner drifted wide, leaving Tigers trailing 17-15 at halftime.

Second Half

The second half started with more drama as Liebenberg struck again in the 42nd minute. Adam Radwan’s relentless chasing forced a turnover, and Leicester quickly spread the ball wide for the flanker to dive into the corner. Pollard nailed a difficult conversion to give Tigers the lead for the first time at 22-17.

However, Saracens responded with clinical efficiency. Academy winger Angus Hall finished a stunning move, diving over in the corner on his Premiership debut. Lozowski missed the conversion, keeping the game tied at 22-22.

Saracens then capitalised on a Leicester error at the lineout, with Theo Dan pouncing to score from close range. Burke’s accurate conversion pushed the visitors ahead at 29-22.

Tigers thought they had responded through Cameron Henderson, who charged down a Saracens clearance and crossed the line. However, the TMO ruled him offside, disallowing the try.

The match was hotly contested right to the final whistle, but it was Saracens who would prevail, winning 29-22 at Mattioli Woods Welford Road.