Saracens, bolstered by Schalk Burger, beat Bristol 39-0, while there were also wins for Northampton, Bath and the Sale Sharks.

Following their shock loss to Harlequins last week, Saracens bounced back with a comprehensive bonus-point win away over Bristol at Ashton Gate. Coach Mark McCall rung the changes to his starting lineup, which saw the return of Burger, who was rested last weekend.

Saracens sped out to 10-0 lead at half-time with a converted try and penalty, while stern defence kept the hosts at bay.

Sarries dominated the second half and ran in four more tries against the hapless Bristol. Burger provided an assist for Saracens’ third after collecting a stray pass and slicing through Bristol’s defence before releasing winger Chris Wyles to finish in the corner.

In other results, a last-gasp penalty saw the Northampton Saints snatch a 20-19 win over the Exeter Chiefs; the Sale Sharks outlasted the Leicester Tigers to secure a thrilling 34-30 victory at AJ Bell Stadium; and Bath’s second-half surge helped them beat derby rivals Gloucester 15-6 at Kingsholm.

On Sunday, Wasps host Harlequins and the Worcester Warriors welcome the Newcastle Falcons.

Round 5 results:

Bristol 0 Saracens 39
Northampton Saints 20 Exeter Chiefs 19
Sale Sharks 34 Leicester Tigers 30
Gloucester 6 Bath 15

Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images