Challenge Cup: Bristol Bears secure much-needed victory over Perpignan while Stade Francais beat Benetton

Bristol Bears earned their first victory in eight matches in major competitions as they beat Perpignan 19-5 at the Stade Aime-Giral.

The Bears did overcome Bath in a minor Premiership Rugby Cup encounter in mid-October but they had gone on a run of seven games without a win in the league.

Their Premiership draw with Leicester Tigers was a step in the right direction, however, and this triumph gave another indication that Pat Lam’s men are beginning to turn it around.

All the points were scored in the first half as Bristol initially went 19-0 ahead through Charles Piutau, Fitz Harding and Joe Jenkins tries.

Shahn Eru did give Perpignan hope just before the break but there were no scores after the interval as the visitors went away with a deserved victory.

Superb second half sees Stade Francais beat Benetton

Stade Francais overcame an error-strewn opening period and a battling Benetton side to record a 24-14 triumph in the Challenge Cup.

The Italians controlled the first half and had a 9-3 advantage at the break thanks to three Jacob Umaga penalties – Leo Barre providing Stade’s response.

Following a disappointing first 40 minutes, the Parisians increased the intensity after the interval as Nadir Megdoud’s converted try took them ahead.

Although Siua Maile regained the Italians’ lead, scores from Jeremy Ward and Lester Etien – with Barre adding the extras to both – sealed the win for Stade.

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