Gloucestershire Daily | Latest news, sports, events and business from Gloucestershire | ‘A Stellar Evening’ - Gloucester Rugby Player Ratings from Comeback Win Against Sale Sharks

Gloucester Rugby clinched a hard-fought 21-15 victory over Sale Sharks in a gripping encounter at Kingsholm. The match seemed to slip away from Gloucester when George Ford landed a drop goal with seven minutes remaining, putting Sale in front. However, Charlie Atkinson had other plans, crossing the line with just three minutes left to seal the win.

Atkinson was undoubtedly the standout performer, scoring two crucial tries to energize the home side. Winger Ben Loader set the tone early with a dynamic opening try, while George Barton’s flawless kicking added key points from the tee. Sale’s tries came in the first half via Alfie Longstaff and Tom O’Flaherty, but they couldn’t hold on as Gloucester mounted a relentless comeback.

Here’s how we rated each Gloucester player in this memorable victory:

George Barton – 6
The full-back was reliable, converting all three of his conversions with ease and delivering a steady performance in open play.
Will Joseph – 6
Joseph brought energy and flair to the wing, chasing down every ball and offering consistent support, though he didn’t cross the line this time.
Max Llewellyn – 6
Llewellyn’s confidence is growing. He played a critical supporting role leading up to Atkinson’s second try, demonstrating composure under pressure.
Seb Atkinson – 6
While typically a standout, Seb blended into a balanced Gloucester backline tonight, contributing quietly but effectively.
Ben Loader – 7
Loader was a constant threat with his feet and hands, opening the scoring and disrupting Sale’s aerial game throughout.
Charlie Atkinson – 9
The star of the evening, Atkinson dazzled with vision and agility, scoring two tries and almost managing three assists before halftime.
Tomos Williams – 7
The captain impressed with an exceptional first half, including a stunning 50/22 kick, before a shoulder injury forced him off early in the second half.
Val Rapava Ruskin – 7
A powerhouse in the scrum, Rapava Ruskin’s work rate shone through with key turnovers and solid set-piece play.
Seb Blake – 6
A steady game marked by growing discipline after early overthrows, Blake contributed well alongside the front row.
Afo Fasogbon – 7
Fasogbon’s commanding presence was a cornerstone of Gloucester’s scrum dominance, culminating in a boisterous roar at full-time.
Arthur Clark – 7
Clark’s physicality was crucial in the pack’s dominance, though he was denied a try due to a forward pass.
Matías Alemanno – 6
Unlucky to miss out on a try, Alemanno nonetheless complemented Gloucester’s formidable scrum and lineout efforts.
Freddie Thomas – 5
A quiet night for Thomas, with limited involvement in key moments.
James Venter – 5
Venter had a subdued performance and was unable to make a significant impact in Ludlow’s absence.
Will Trenholm – 5
After a Player of the Match display last week, Trenholm experienced a quieter outing this time.

Replacements:
16. Jack Innard - 6
17. Dian Bleuler - 6
18. Ciaran Knight – 6
19. Danny Eite - 5
20. Deian Gwynne - 5
21. Jack Clement - 5
22. Caolan Englefield - 6
23. Josiah Edwards-Giraud - 6