Semi Helps Bears Bury 14-Year Curse
Semi Radradra inspired the Bristol Bears to bury the 14year curse at Sixways yesterday.
In another man of the match performance at the home of the Worcester Warriors, the Somosomo, Taveuni native sparked a second fightback in the 36-13 bonus point win to secure second spot (53points) in the Gallagher Premiership Rugby.
Trailing 13-10 at halftime, it was Radradra’s raw power and creative flair that did the damage for Worcester as Bristol scored tries through his midfield partner Siale Piutau, lock Ed Holmes, flanker Dan Thomas, halfback Andy Uren and backrow substitute Ben Earl. With Radradra at the wheel, Bristol moved through the gears scoring 26 unanswered points to underline their Premiership title credentials.
Radradra was on the field just 60 minutes but still racked up an incredible 168 metres with ball in hand, wreaking havoc in the Warriors defence in a stunning hourlong display.
The Fijian made four clean breaks in yet another stunning display for the Pat Lam-coached side. Radradra served notice of his line-breaking ability in just the 4th minute, breaking three attempted tackles.
The Bears second spot on the standing will be short-lived if Sale Sharks (50pts) overpower Nemani Nadolo’s Leicester Tigers at Welford Road today.
But Lam’s men will have another chance to leapfrog the Sharks when they host Taqele Naiyaravoro Northampton Saints at Ashton Gate on Wednesday.
The Saints lost 19-22 to leader Exeter Chiefs (68) at Franklin’s Gardens yesterday.
Lam said they need to improve on discipline.
“I am pleased we got the five points. Second half was a lot better but our discipline was poor again. “Before COVID-19, we were only averaging eight penalties. Now we are averaging 17, and that is an area we need to improve on.
“We know we haven’t put together the perfect game yet. We’ve got a long way to go.”