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Glasgow Warriors began 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. Scores from Ernst van Rhyn and youngster Ollie Davies gave them early control.

But, Glasgow responded well with a pair of scores prior to the interval. Forward Gregor Hiddleston and back-rower Rory Darge both went over to narrow the deficit.

Further after the break scores from Kyle Steyn and centurion Stafford McDowall extended the Warriors' lead to 26-14. Marius Louw's reply for Sale promised a nervous finale, but Glasgow held firm to secure a major first-round victory.

Glasgow Take Control After Half-Time

Play began with a quick try as skipper Ernst van Rhyn drove over from short distance after just two minutes. A first-half knock to centre Rekeiti Ma'asi-White introduced teenager Davies into the fray for his cup debut.

Davies made an instant impact. Switching to fly-half, he ran a good angle to take an pass and touch down, making the home side's lead.

Facing challenging weather, Glasgow turned to their forward power to get back into the game. A powerful driving maul was touched down by hooker Gregor Hiddleston. Prior to the break, Rory Darge forced his way over, with Hastings' conversion making it a narrow game at half-time.

The Scottish club took the lead for the first time early in the second half. A poor box-kick was collected by No. 8 Jack Dempsey, who set up captain Steyn to burst through a challenge and sprint to the try-line.

Now in the driving seat, Glasgow secured the fourth try when Stafford McDowall ran through a tackle to score his century for the team. This try capped a run of twenty-six consecutive points.

Sale gave themselves a late hope when Marius Louw used good skills to score. The conversion made it a one-score game with time remaining.

A final chance came for Sale from a line-out in the 22, but they failed to secure the possession, confirming the Warriors' triumph.

What's Next?

Sale Sharks must regroup ahead of a journey to face Clermont this weekend. Meanwhile, Glasgow Warriors will host European giants Toulouse to their home ground.

The two sides are drawn in a competitive Pool One that also includes Saracens and South African outfit the Hollywoodbets 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.

Officials

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