May makes comeback as Gloucester outclass Bayonne

Bayonne 27-47 Gloucester Rugby, Stade Jean-Dauger
Scorecard

England international Jonny May made a successful comeback after 10 months as seven-try Gloucester defeated Bayonne in their European Challenge Cup encounter at Stade Jean-Dauger on Saturday.

Centres Mark Atkinson (4,15) and Matt Scott (8') scored the opening three tries for Gloucester inside the first quarter, while James Hook, who had a memorable game as well converted all the three tries.

Bayonne, who managed six points through Lucas Meret's double penalty stepped up through tries from centre Thibault Lacroix and hooker Simon Labouyrie as the score was down to 20-24 by the 36th minute. However, fly-half Billy Twelvetrees scored a vital try for the cherry and white jersey at the stroke of half-time to take a nine-point lead.

The second half kick started with Dion Evarard Oulai strolling over the posts for Bayonee and a conversion from Meret reduced the gap to two points.

Gloucester, who had allowed games to slip in the second half as seen in this season's Aviva Premiership, regrouped and ensured they came up with an improved performance in the remainder of the game.

It was in the 52nd minute, May in his first appearance after 10 months due to a knee injury, crossed over to provide some respite. A conversion and a penalty from Hook, stretched the lead to 12 points.

Bayonne failed to capitalise on the sin-bin to Gloucester replacement Motu Matu'u. Tom Savage signed off the game for the visitors with a last minute try, ensuring a 20-point victory.