The double title holder was playing for survival in the competition in the suburbs of Manchester. And the Maritimes have been authoritarian. To lead 16-0 at the break, then quickly thanks to two tries from Hastoy and Kerr-Barlow to lead 30-0 in the 47th minute.
What followed was a relaxation which allowed the English from Sale to finally shine and score four tries, as many as the Rochelais. Finally victorious 37 to 24. And qualified for the round of 16 of the Champions Cup. However, they will have to compete away.
