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The Scottish side began their European campaign in ideal fashion with a valuable four-try win on the road against Sale.

Taking advantage of the elements at their backs, the hosts started strongly and raced to a 14-0 advantage within the first quarter. Scores from Ernst van Rhyn and teenage debutant Ollie Davies gave them early control.

But, the visitors responded admirably with two tries before half-time. Hooker Gregor Hiddleston and back-rower Darge both crossed to narrow the gap.

Additional after the break scores from Kyle Steyn and Stafford McDowall pushed Glasgow's lead to 26-14. Marius Louw's reply for the hosts promised a tense finish, but Glasgow held firm to secure a major first-round victory.

Glasgow Seize Initiative After Interval

Play began with a bang as Sale captain Van Rhyn scored from short distance after just two minutes. An early injury to centre Rekeiti Ma'asi-White brought 19-year-old Ollie Davies into the fray for his cup debut.

The youngster made an instant impact. Switching to fly-half, he ran a good support line to collect an offload and touch down, extending Sale's lead.

Against challenging conditions, the Warriors turned to their set-piece to get back into the contest. A strong driving maul was finished by hooker Hiddleston. Just before the half, Darge forced his way over, with Adam Hastings' kick making it a two-point deficit at half-time.

The Scottish club took the lead for the first time soon after the restart. A misjudged kick was gathered by No. 8 Jack Dempsey, who set up skipper Steyn to burst through a challenge and sprint to the try-line.

With in the driving seat, Glasgow secured the bonus point when McDowall ran through a tackle to celebrate his century for the club. This try capped a run of 26 unanswered points.

Sale gave themselves a late hope when Louw showed neat footwork to cross. The conversion made it a five-point game with minutes remaining.

One last opportunity came for Sale from a line-out in the corner, but they lost the possession, confirming Glasgow's victory.

What's Next?

Sale Sharks must bounce back ahead of a journey to face Clermont Auvergne next Saturday. Meanwhile, Glasgow Warriors will host six-time winners Toulouse to their home ground.

Both sides are drawn in a strong first pool that also includes the English side and South African outfit the Sharks.

Line-ups

Sale Sharks: Reed; O'Flaherty, Ma'asi-White, Louw, Wills; Du Preez, Quirke; McIntyre, Jibulu, John, Burrow, Bamber, Vermeulen, Van Rhyn, T Curry.
Replacements: Caine, Onasanya, Harper, Andrews, B Curry, Warr, Davies, Wehr.

Glasgow Warriors: McKay; Steyn, McDowall, Tuipulotu, Smith; Hastings, Horne; McBeth, Hiddleston, Z Fagerson, Williamson, Cummings, M Fagerson, Darge, Dempsey.
Replacements: Stephen, Sutherland, Talakai, Samuel, Brown, Miller, Dobie, Lancaster.

Officials

Referee: Pierre Brousset (France).
Assistant Referees: Vincent Blasco Baque (France) and Julien Caulier (France).
TMO: Tual Trainini (French).