The Champions Cup is heating up as the pool stage reaches its climax! In a thrilling encounter, Bristol Bears take on Bordeaux Begles at Ashton Gate. The home side is looking to secure top spot in Pool 4, while Bordeaux, the reigning champions, aim to maintain their dominance. But here's where it gets controversial... Bristol's handling errors have been costly, with Bordeaux capitalizing on their mistakes. Will Bristol's resilience pay off, or will Bordeaux's experience prevail? Stay tuned as the action unfolds and the fate of these teams hangs in the balance!
Live Reporting:
Tim Oscroft brings you the latest updates from the field, with Bristol currently trailing 5-17 at the 38-minute mark. Louis Rees-Zammit's break created a stir, but handling errors undid the momentum. A try by Nicolas Depoortere and a replacement for Tom Jordan have kept Bristol in the game, but Bordeaux's Louis Bielle-Biarrey is on a hat-trick hunt.
Line-ups:
Bristol Bears:
1. Tom Jordan
2. Benhard Janse van Rensburg
3. Gabriel Oghre
4. John Mitchell
5. Charlie Ewels
6. Sam Bedford
7. Harry Randall
8. Ellis Genge
9. Billy Twelvetrees
10. Louis Rees-Zammit
11. Damian Penaud
12. Henry Thomas
13. Nic Dolly
14. Max Mullens
15. Josh Matavesi
Bordeaux Begles:
1. Jaminet
2. Maynadier
3. Woki
4. Woki
5. Woki
6. Woki
7. Jalibert
8. Woki
9. Jalibert
10. Bielle-Biarrey
11. Bielle-Biarrey
12. Bielle-Biarrey
13. Bielle-Biarrey
14. Bielle-Biarrey
15. Bielle-Biarrey
Watch & Listen:
For in-depth analysis and expert commentary, tune in to BBC radio for live commentaries as the Champions Cup pool stage concludes. Don't miss the chance to hear the experts dissect this thrilling encounter and the implications for both teams' futures in the competition.
Pool 4:
- 15:15: Northampton v Scarlets - The Saints are already qualified, but the Scarlets need a bonus-point win to keep their hopes alive.
Pool 3:
- 15:15: La Rochelle v Harlequins - La Rochelle could end Leicester's progression hopes, while the Quins aim to secure second place in the pool.
Pool 1:
- 17:30: Glasgow Warriors v Saracens - The Warriors are vying for top spot, while the Sarries are yet to confirm their place in the last 16.
Challenge Cup:
- Exeter v Cardiff: Live coverage available on BBC Sport (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/live/c87re385v81t)
The Champions Cup is a showcase of the best rugby talent, and with the pool stage reaching its final stages, the competition is heating up! Will Bristol's home advantage and resilience be enough to overcome Bordeaux's championship experience? Or will Bordeaux's dominance continue? Join us as we bring you all the action and drama from Ashton Gate!
