Marshall stars in Gloucester's 39-30 thrilling win over Sale Sharks

Gloucester Rugby 39-30 Sale Sharks, Kingsholm
Scorecard

Gloucester have boosted their chance of finishing in top six as they completed a 39-30 win over Sale Sharks in their Aviva Premiership encounter at Kingsholm on Saturday.

The win meant they are placed at eighth position in the table and are separated by one point from the sixth and seventh placed Harlequins and Northampton Saints respectively while Sale Sharks continue to languish at the 10th place.

Fullback Tom Marshall started the proceedings with a 10th minute try and was immediately followed by a conversion from Billy Burns. Sam James and Mike Phillips responded back with a try each in a span of four minutes to bring Steve Diamond's clear by five points.

However, Richard Hibbard's cross over followed by a penalty from Burns ensured Gloucester took a slender three point lead at half time.

Sale Sharks showed more intent in the second half with Kieron Longbottom and Byron McGuigan rumbling past the post to restore a nine point lead for the visitors. But, they failed to press on the advantage as Henry Trinder, Tom Marshall and Billy Twelvetrees scored a try each in the final quarter to complete a 39-30 victory for Gloucester.