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

Taking advantage of the wind at their backs, Sale started strongly and built a 14-0 advantage within the first quarter. Scores from Ernst van Rhyn and teenage debutant Ollie Davies gave them early control.

However, Glasgow responded admirably with two tries prior to the interval. Hooker Hiddleston and back-rower Rory Darge both went over to narrow the deficit.

Further second-half scores from captain Kyle Steyn and Stafford McDowall extended the Warriors' advantage to 26-14. Marius Louw's reply for the hosts promised a nervous finish, but the visitors stood strong to secure a significant opening win.

Warriors Take Control After Half-Time

The match started with a quick try as skipper Van Rhyn scored from short distance after just two minutes. A first-half injury to midfielder Rekeiti Ma'asi-White introduced teenager Ollie Davies into the action for his European debut.

The youngster made an immediate contribution. Moving to fly-half, he took a good support line to collect an offload and touch down, making the home side's lead.

Facing difficult conditions, Glasgow used their set-piece to fight back into the game. A strong line-out drive was finished by hooker Gregor Hiddleston. Just before the break, Rory Darge forced his way over, with Adam Hastings' kick making it a narrow deficit at the interval.

Glasgow took the lead for the first time early in the second half. A misjudged box-kick was gathered by number eight Jack Dempsey, who set up captain Kyle Steyn to break a challenge and race away to the line.

With in the ascendancy, Glasgow secured the bonus point when McDowall ran through a tackle to celebrate his 100th appearance for the team. This try capped a run of 26 unanswered points.

The hosts found a lifeline when Marius Louw used good skills to score. The kick made it a five-point game with minutes left.

A final chance came for Sale from a line-out in the 22, but they lost the possession, confirming Glasgow's triumph.

What's Next?

Sale must bounce back ahead of a journey to face Clermont Auvergne next Saturday. In contrast, Glasgow Warriors will welcome European giants Toulouse to their home ground.

The two sides are placed in a strong Pool One that also includes the English side and Durban-based outfit the Sharks.

Line-ups

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 (French) and Julien Caulier (France).
TMO: Tual Trainini (French).