# Top clubs slump in European washout

> European rugby champions' early matches end in losses.
- Title: Top clubs slump in European washout · The Rugby Paper
- Summary: European rugby champions' early matches end in losses. Top English clubs lost their first Champions Cup matches in a European washout.
- Keywords: champions cup, bath, bristol, sale, saracens, connacht, sports, Top, clubs, slump, European, washout
- Source: The Rugby Paper — https://therugbypaper.co.uk/latest-news/495259/top-clubs-slump-in-european-washout
- Author: The Rugby Paper Team
- Published: 2026-10-18T03:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: champions cup, bath, bristol, sale, saracens, connacht, sports
## European washout
English clubs suffered early Champions Cup defeats in a washout.
## Saracens' early setback
Saracens lost their opening match in Galway with 13 tries total.
## Joe Shaw's reaction
Sarries coach Joe Shaw said: 'It’s ...'

> It’s ...
## Key takeaway

Top English clubs lost their first Champions Cup matches in a European washout.