Blues batter Sharks

A superb first-half performance by the Cardiff Blues earned them a 32-15 victory over Sale Sharks and also a valuable bonus-point in the opening match of this season's EDF Energy Cup.

With Wales international Gareth Thomas in scintillating form on his first full appearance for the Blues, the Sharks were left shell-shocked and even a much-improved display after the break did not seriously threaten home dominance.

First-half tries from Jason Spice, Thomas (two) and captain Xavier Rush secured the win and a bonus point for the Blues with Tom James crossing late-on.

The first score came from lock Deiniol Jones, who pounced on a loose ball and fed Jason Spice, who stretched and twisted to touchdown despite Charlie Hodgson's best efforts.

Thomas then scythed through to go under the posts for Nicky Robinson to convert, before some fine interpassing with wing Jamie Roberts saw the Wales captain cross in the corner.

Thomas then sold an outrageous dummy to begin a move which saw full-back Ben Blair hauled down just short. He still managed to offload the ball to supporting skipper, Xavier Rush, who dotted it down.

The Sharks reappeared with renewed determination and had a boost when home flanker Maama Molitika was sin-binned for using his hands in a ruck.

Some robust home defence enabled the Blues to survive their period with 14 men, but Sale eventually had their reward when the tireless Julien Laharrague broke a tackle to send Lee Thomas in for a try he improved himself.

The visitors thrilled their supporters with a length-of-the-field move ending with a fine try for Lamont.

But there was still time for Blues wing Tom James to claim an inch-perfect cross-kick from Robinson and cross for his sixth try in four matches.