Stat attack: Bristol Bears 16-12 Saracens

Siale Piutau is a player that sometimes goes under the radar, but the experienced centre was the Bears' standout performer against the reigning champions on Saturday, leading an heroic defensive effort to help his side to a sixth straight Gallagher Premiership win.

Piutau was named man of the match by the BT Sport punditry team - and rightly so. The Tongan made 11 tackles (92%) as the Bears repelled a powerful Saracens side over and over again. 

This was a victory built on gritty and determined defending, as Pat Lam's side held out for a hard-fought win at a rain-soaked Ashton Gate.

In fact, it's the first time the Bears have stopped the opposition scoring a try in the Gallagher Premiership since their return to the top flight in 2018/19. 

Brive were also kept out in both European Challenge Cup pool games this season, demonstrating the ever improving Bears' defence.

Saturday's victory saw personal landmarks for two of the Bears squad, as Jake Woolmore and Alapati Leiua made their 50th competitive appearances for the club.

Prop Woolmore has been an ever-present in the Bears matchday squad since his arrival from Jersey in 2017/18, while Leiua's power, pace and versatility continue to make him a key cog in the Bristol machine.