Ruan Ackermann’s try sealed Gloucester’s recovery from a 14-point deficit to overhaul Montpellier on Saturday and book their place in the EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-finals.
The South African loose forward delivered when it mattered most, scoring the decisive touchdown as Gloucester triumphed 24-17 in the round-of-16 clash at GGL Stadium.
Ackermann, who has amassed over 150 appearances for the English outfit since joining from the Lions in 2017, broke a tense second-half deadlock with his crucial score after 60 minutes of action.
Gloucester had been forced to battle from behind after the hosts stormed to an early lead through Anthony Bouthier and Hugo Reus inside the opening 10 minutes.
The Cherry & Whites responded through Freddie Thomas and Cameron Jordan, though Reus’ penalty gave the hosts a slender 17-14 advantage at the break.
MORE: SA Rugby yet to tie down Ackers
The visitors showed remarkable resilience after the interval, with Ackermann’s telling contribution putting them ahead before Santiago Carreras sealed victory with a long-range penalty.
George Skivington’s men now regroup for an intriguing Anglo-South African coaching battle against Johann van Graan’s high-flying Bath at the Recreation Ground next Sunday.
Winning in France 😍 pic.twitter.com/g7Oh5PaTOo
— Gloucester Rugby 🍒 (@gloucesterrugby) April 5, 2025
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