In the early stages of this Premiership season, Sale Sharks have yet to consistently display the form that has become their hallmark in recent years. Yet, their home strength under head coach Alex Sanderson continues to be a defining feature of their campaign. Sale’s resilience at home was once again on full display as they handed Leicester Tigers their first away defeat of the season with an impressive 39-25 victory.
Sale’s dominance at the Salford Community Stadium remains central to their playoff ambitions. Since Sanderson’s appointment in 2021, the Sharks have lost only five Premiership games on home turf. This season, their home record contrasts sharply with their struggles away, where they have suffered four losses, including heavy defeats to Northampton and Bath. This clash against Leicester, however, reaffirmed their home supremacy and narrowed the gap to the top four to just five points.
The match began with Leicester in control, showcasing strong forward play and discipline. Nicky Smith’s early try and a penalty from Handré Pollard gave the visitors an 8-0 lead. At that point, Leicester appeared to be in command, maintaining a dominant 7-1 penalty count and frequently pressuring Sale’s defense in the 22. Yet, Sale managed to weather the storm and claw their way back into the game.
Dan du Preez, marking his 100th appearance for Sale, scored a crucial try to shift momentum. While Pollard’s second penalty extended Leicester’s lead briefly, Sale struck back just before halftime. Despite struggling in the scrum, Luke Cowan-Dickie’s precision in the lineout created opportunities, culminating in Bevan Rodd’s try that gave Sale a slender one-point lead at the break. Even with a 10-4 penalty deficit, Sale’s resilience hinted at their potential to dominate in the second half.
After halftime, Sale exploded into life. A blistering passage of play saw them score 17 points in just 10 minutes, shifting the match decisively in their favor. A stunning long-range try, starting deep in their own territory, exemplified their attacking intent, with Arron Reed finishing the move. Reed struck again moments later after brilliant link-up play between George Ford and Rob du Preez, securing a bonus point with half the game still to play.
Sale’s intensity continued, and a moment of individual brilliance from Asher Opoku-Fordjour added another highlight. Fresh off his England debut, the forward capitalized on a defensive lapse to score his first senior try, drawing a thunderous response from the home crowd.
Leicester, determined not to leave empty-handed, mounted a spirited response. Freddie Steward’s try, following an interception by Olly Cracknell, gave the visitors hope. George Martin’s late try brought them closer to a losing bonus point, but Sale’s defensive effort, bolstered by Cowan-Dickie’s tireless performance and his own try, ensured Leicester fell short.
Sale’s ability to adjust and dominate after halftime underscored their potential. Sanderson praised the team’s bravery and tactical adjustments, particularly in attack and transitional play. Their effective use of the maul opened spaces elsewhere, showcasing the adaptability that has made them a force at home.
This victory not only bolstered Sale’s playoff ambitions but also served notice to the Premiership’s leading teams. As the festive period approaches, this performance suggests that Sale Sharks are finding their stride at a critical juncture in the season. Their ability to blend tenacity with attacking flair at home remains a cornerstone of their success and could prove pivotal in the campaign ahead.
