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Glasgow Warriors kicked off their European campaign in ideal fashion with a valuable bonus-point win on the road against Sale Sharks.

Taking advantage of the wind at their backs, Sale began strongly and built a 14-0 lead within the first quarter. Tries from the Sale skipper and youngster Ollie Davies gave them early control.

But, Glasgow fought back admirably with two tries before half-time. Forward Hiddleston and back-rower Darge both crossed to reduce the deficit.

Additional second-half tries from captain Kyle Steyn and Stafford McDowall extended the Warriors' lead to twelve points. Marius Louw's try for the hosts set up a tense finish, but Glasgow stood strong to secure a significant opening victory.

Warriors Seize Initiative After Interval

The match began with a quick try as skipper Ernst van Rhyn scored from close range after only two minutes. An early knock to centre Ma'asi-White brought 19-year-old Davies into the fray for his European debut.

Davies made an instant contribution. Switching to fly-half, he ran a smart angle to collect an pass and touch down, extending the home side's advantage.

Facing difficult weather, the Warriors used their set-piece to fight back into the game. A strong line-out drive was finished by front-rower Hiddleston. Prior to the break, Rory Darge forced his way over, with Adam Hastings' kick making it a narrow game at half-time.

The Scottish club seized the advantage for the first occasion early in the second half. A misjudged box-kick was collected by No. 8 Jack Dempsey, who set up skipper Steyn to break a challenge and race away to the line.

With in the driving seat, Glasgow clinched the fourth try when Stafford McDowall powered past a tackle to score his 100th appearance for the team. This try completed a run of twenty-six unanswered points.

The hosts found a lifeline when Marius Louw used neat skills to cross. The kick made it a one-score game with time remaining.

A final opportunity came for them from a throw in the 22, but they failed to secure the possession, sealing Glasgow's victory.

What's Next?

Sale must regroup ahead of a trip to face Clermont Auvergne this weekend. Meanwhile, Glasgow will welcome six-time winners Toulouse to Scotstoun.

Both sides are placed in a strong first pool that also features Saracens and Durban-based outfit the Sharks.

Teams

Sale Sharks: Reed; O'Flaherty, Ma'asi-White, Louw, Wills; Du Preez, Quirke; McIntyre, Jibulu, John, Burrow, Bamber, Vermeulen, Van Rhyn, T Curry.
Replacements: Caine, Onasanya, Harper, Andrews, B Curry, Warr, Davies, Wehr.

Glasgow Warriors: McKay; Steyn, McDowall, Tuipulotu, Smith; Hastings, Horne; McBeth, Hiddleston, Z Fagerson, Williamson, Cummings, M Fagerson, Darge, Dempsey.
Replacements: Stephen, Sutherland, Talakai, Samuel, Brown, Miller, Dobie, Lancaster.

Match Officials

Referee: Pierre Brousset (French).
Assistant Referees: Vincent Blasco Baque (French) and Julien Caulier (France).
TMO: Tual Trainini (France).