In the unpredictable world of top-flight rugby, here was a result we could all understand. Bristol arrived on a record-breaking run of 10 away wins, but seriously hindered by injuries. They fought with spirit and snatched a late try bonus point, but rarely looked likely to seriously trouble Saracens, who were hungry to atone for last Saturday’s record thrashing by Bath.
The Bears have never won at this venue and victory would have been a perfect way to start what is already a momentous weekend with Ilona Maher’s bow for their women’s side at Ashton Gate on Sunday. But two first-half tries by the outstanding Sarries’ No 8 Tom Willis – including one of the most fleet-footed finishes you will see from a forward – helped Mark McCall’s men take a grip on the contest they never relinquished.
