The Ospreys claimed an impressive 32-15 bonus-point win over the Northampton Saints, while there were also European Champions Cup victories for Clermont, Wasps and Munster.
The Ospreys followed up last week’s shock 43-32 victory over Northampton with another clinical display for a crucial victory in the return fixture, which takes them up to second in the Pool 2 standings above Saracens.
For the Saints, it was a dire result to end off a miserable and tumultuous week during which long-standing director of rugby Jim Mallinder resigned because of the team’s recent under-performance. Northampton are last on the log, having lost all four of their games this season.
The Ospreys led 11-0 at the break thanks to an unconverted try and two penalties. They were even better in the second half with Welsh duo Rhys Webb and Justin Tipuric leading the charge. Webb scored a brace, while Tipuric’s try ensured the hosts secure an all-important bonus point.
Meanwhile, Clermont grounded out a 24-21 win against Saracens to complete a double over the defending champions. The result ensures Clermont remain at the top of the table, five log points clear of the Ospreys. Saracens, who are now on a seven-match losing streak in all competitions, are third.
Wasps kept their playoff hopes alive with a 21-3 triumph against La Rochelle at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry.
An industrious performance by CJ Stander, including a second-half try, helped Munster to a 25-16 win over the Leicester Tigers at Welford Road. Munster still lead the way in Pool 4, while Leicester are fourth.
Champions Cup results (Round 4):
Ospreys 32 Northampton Saints 15
Clermont 24 Saracens 21
Wasps 21 La Rochelle 3
Leicester Tigers 16 Munster 25
Photo: @ChampionsCup/Twitter
