Gloucester survive Leicester fightback to claim victory

A thrilling encounter between Gloucester and Leicester Tigers at the Kingsholm Stadium has ended 27-21 to the hosts.

© PA Photos

Charlie Sharples wasted no time in opening the scoring for Gloucester by collecting a kick from Freddie Burns before breaking away to touch down.

Burns converted the try but Toby Flood quickly reduced the deficit for Leicester with a well-taken penalty.

A penalty from Burns restored Gloucester's seven-point lead before Scott Hamilton edged over the line for Leicester's first try.

Burns produced a moment of brilliance before half-time by chipping over Leicester's defence and running clear to make the 17-8.

Flood and Burns traded penalties either side of half-time and another successful attempt from Flood looked as though it might spark a comeback.

However, James Simpson-Daniel burst clear to set up Akapusi Quera to allow Gloucester to move into a 27-14 lead.

Jimmy Cowan and Rob Cook were both sin-binned in the space of 10 minutes to give Leicester hope and Flood increased the chances of a dramatic fightback by converting a penalty try.