Champions Cup Upset: Connacht's Bonus Points Crush Bristol's Hopes

Connacht secured a comfortable bonus-point victory in their final pool game, ending Bristol Bears’ chances of reaching the last 16 in the Investec Champions Cup. Shayne Bolton scored the opening goal, and Bristol’s Josh Caulfield received a red card for striking Finlay Bealham’s head. Connacht continued to dominate with additional goals from Jack Aungier and Caolin Blade before halftime. Despite Bristol claiming a late penalty try, they left empty-handed. The defeat dropped Bristol to the bottom of the table, swapping places with Connacht. Connacht’s win keeps their slim hopes alive, and they await the outcome of Saracens’ match against Lyon to determine their fate.

Connacht took an early lead with Bolton finishing a flowing move. Caulfield’s red card and Sinckler’s sin-bin stint further disadvantaged Bristol. Aungier and Blade scored for Connacht, putting them seemingly out of reach. Bristol fought hard but faced setbacks, including denied tries. Connacht secured a bonus point with Andrew Smith’s try. Bristol managed a late penalty try, but it wasn’t enough. The win lifts Connacht in the standings, with Saracens having the opportunity to surpass them based on their performance against Lyon.