Glasgow Warriors edge out Lions 29-20

Glasgow Warriors 29-20 Lions, Scotstoun

Glasgow Warriors survived a spirited second-half comeback from the Lions to secure a 29-20 bonus-point victory in the BKT United Rugby Championship at Scotstoun on Friday night.

Four tries helped Franco Smith's side maintain their unbeaten start to the campaign and move temporarily to the top of the standings.

Glasgow Build Commanding First-Half Lead

Fergus Watson opened the scoring in the ninth minute, collecting Dan Lancaster's cross-field kick before beating the defence to cross. George Horne converted to give Glasgow a 7-0 lead.

Chris Smith responded with a penalty for the Lions, but Lancaster extended Glasgow's advantage with a try following good work from Euan Ferrie and Horne.

Lions lock Etienne Oosthuizen was sin-binned in the 33rd minute before debutant Jack Singleton added Glasgow's third try. The hosts entered half-time leading 19-3.

Lions Fight Back After The Interval

The visitors responded strongly after the restart, with Morné van den Berg scoring from close range in the 49th minute. Boeta Chamberlain converted to reduce the deficit to nine points.

Siba Mahashe then intercepted a pass and raced over in the corner to bring the Lions within four points.

The comeback continued when replacement hooker Morné Brandon crossed from a driving maul in the 69th minute, giving the visitors a 20-19 lead.

Smith Secures Late Glasgow Victory

Glasgow regained control in the closing stages as sustained attacking pressure created an opportunity for Ollie Smith.

The full-back collected Stafford McDowall's pass, stepped inside the final defender and scored in the 75th minute. Horne converted to restore a six-point advantage.

Horne then added a penalty with the clock in the red to seal the 29-20 victory, denying the Lions a losing bonus point.

Watson was named Player of the Match as Glasgow completed their opening block of fixtures unbeaten.