Defending champions Bordeaux Bègles were held to a 36-36 draw by a revitalised Gloucester in their European Champions Cup opener. The French visitors, aiming for a third consecutive title, faced a strong challenge from the home side in an outstanding contest.
The match was preceded by an eventful arrival for Bordeaux, as four of their players, including star winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, were delayed for four hours by UK Border Control. This was due to a lack of valid electronic travel authorisations (ETA).
Despite the disruption, Bielle-Biarrey scored two tries for Bordeaux. However, Gloucester's former Harlequins back-rower Will Trenholm made a vital impact from the bench, scoring two tries within five minutes to help secure a share of the spoils for the Cherry and Whites.