In a bounce-back performance that will ease the sting of last week’s humbling defeat to Bath, Saracens reasserted their Premiership title credentials with a hard-fought 35-26 victory over a depleted but spirited Bristol Bears side at StoneX Stadium. The hosts, spearheaded by a brace of brilliant tries from dynamic No 8 Tom Willis, withstood a fierce challenge from Pat Lam’s injury-hit squad to get their campaign firmly back on track.
Willis Ignites Saracens’ Fast Start
Despite some early match clock confusion, there was nothing uncertain about Saracens’ intent from the opening whistle. Slick interplay between Alex Lozowski and Nick Tompkins allowed Fergus Burke to unleash Lucio Cinti down the left flank, before Willis thundered over for the opening score. Minutes later, more sharp handling sent Cinti flying again, leading to Burke breezing through a defensive gap to dot down under the posts and extend the lead to 14-0.
Bristol’s Injury Woes Deepen
The Bears, already missing influential fly-half AJ MacGinty and electric wing Gabriel Ibitoye through injury, were dealt another cruel blow when scrum-half Harry Randall limped off in the first half. But the visitors showed tremendous heart to hit back through Randall’s replacement Tom Whiteley, who sniped over from close range. A Maro Itoje yellow card for a ruck infringement threatened to shift momentum, but Saracens held firm.
Jamie George Marks Milestone in Style
On his 300th appearance for the club, talismanic hooker Jamie George typified Saracens’ relentless drive. His lineout dart set the platform for Willis’ sensational second try – a fleet-footed finish that saw the No 8 dance past three defenders on his way to the corner. Director of Rugby Mark McCall hailed George as embodying the “competitive spirit” that has defined Saracens’ success.
To be able to do what he’s done – 300 games for us, 97 for England, three for the British Lions – is because of his competitive spirit and his drive. But he’s able to combine that with being a really good bloke.
Mark McCall on Jamie George
Willis “Outstanding” in Commanding Display
While Bristol struck late through tries from replacement Kalaveti Ravouvou and flanker Jake Heenan to secure a hard-earned bonus point, the day belonged to Saracens and their rampaging No 8. Willis was a constant menace, his power and pace in the loose consistently denting the Bears’ defensive line. A rampaging chase down the right touchline left Bristol wing Rich Lane terrorized and brought the home crowd to their feet.
- Tom Willis’ stats vs Bristol: – 2 tries – 18 carries – 95 meters gained – 5 defenders beaten – 3 linebreaks
McCall was effusive in his praise for the 23-year-old back-rower, tipping him for higher honors if he maintains this world-class form:
Tom was outstanding. He’s been outstanding all year and if he keeps on putting in performances like that, he’ll get rewarded [with England selection].
Mark McCall on Tom Willis
Bristol Show Fighting Spirit in Defeat
For Bears Director of Rugby Pat Lam, there were positives to take from a spirited display in the face of adversity. Pleased with how his injury-hit side fought back from a 27-7 deficit, Lam highlighted their refusal to go quietly:
At 27-7, you come here and you’re that far behind, that could really get away from you. But the boys fought back hard. They knew we had the potential to come back.
Pat Lam on Bristol’s resilience
Statement Win Sets Tone for Saracens’ Title Tilt
While areas for improvement remain, this gutsy win served as a timely reminder of Saracens’ title credentials. With Jamie George leading from the front on his milestone day and young stars like Tom Willis and Lucio Cinti shining bright, Mark McCall’s men showed they have the depth and determination to bounce back from adversity. As the business end of the season looms, Saracens look primed to mount a serious challenge for an eighth Premiership crown.
