Saracens go top in last-minute drama

THERE is a reason why Saracens have been serial winners down the years – they never know when they are beaten.

- PAUL REES

At the very end of a match in which Bristol had at times destroyed their defence with some bewildering handling movements that usually had Gabriel Ibitoye at their heart, Alex Lozowski kicked a penalty to take his team back to the top.

Saracens may lose iconic players but they never lose their identity. Some of Bristol’s play was sublime with wing Ibitoye their chief tormentor and the hosts ran from anywhere and everywhere, quick feet, hands and minds producing some of the most thrilling rugby seen in the Premiership.

It was as if the Barbarians were trying to outdo the Harlem Globetrotters. Bristol scored five tries and could have had at least five more but for desperate defence and wrong options, but when it came to the basics Saracens were some way ahead.