Salesi Rayasi, the talented fullback for the Flying Fijians, delivered an electrifying performance by scoring a remarkable hat-trick, leading Bordeaux-Bègles to a decisive 50–28 victory over Northampton Saints in their Champions Cup Pool Four match on Sunday. This encounter was significant as it was a fiery rematch of last season’s Champions Cup final, and Rayasi’s outstanding display showcased his ability to exploit the Saints’ ill-discipline, which resulted in several yellow cards.
The match commenced with Rayasi quickly putting Bordeaux on the scoreboard with an unconverted try. Northampton’s Henry Pollock responded, temporarily giving the Saints the lead with a well-executed conversion from Anthony Belleau. However, the momentum shifted when prop Danilo Fischetti received a yellow card for a scrum infringement, allowing Bordeaux to capitalize on their numerical advantage. Rayasi found the end zone again, reclaiming the lead for his team.
Northampton’s troubles escalated when Rory Hutchinson was also shown a yellow card for his illegal tackle on winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, further hampering their efforts. Bordeaux took full advantage of this situation, with scrumhalf Martin Page-Relo and lock Cameron Woki both scoring tries, leading to a commanding halftime score of 24–7 in favor of the French side.
Rayasi’s hat-trick was completed just two minutes after the second half began, exemplifying his critical role in the match. Woki added two more tries to the tally, while Northampton managed to score through Tommy Freeman and Pollock, who grabbed his second try late in the game. Fischetti’s powerful try provided the Saints with a consolation bonus point, albeit Bordeaux remained firmly in control of the match throughout.
With this powerful win, Bordeaux-Bègles remains in a strong position as they head into the final round, looking to secure the top spot in Pool Four. Their next challenge is against Bristol, promising to be another exciting contest in their Champions Cup journey. Rayasi’s brilliant form offers hope for the Bordeaux side as they aim to maintain their momentum in the tournament.
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