Overview
- Sale clinched victory at Ashton Gate with Joe Bedlow scoring in the 78th minute to seal a 41-36 win.
- Bristol full-back Rich Lane left in the opening minute with a hamstring injury, and replacement Benjamin Elizalde scored twice.
- The teams traded scores in an open contest, with Sale up 22-19 at half-time and finishing seven tries to six.
- Neither side could reach the semi-finals, yet both named strong line-ups to sharpen players before the Premiership resumes on March 22.
- Lam said the loss will sharpen focus as Bristol prepare for a pre-season-style block ahead of Leicester away and a European trip to Toulouse.