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Scotland’s No.8, Jack Dempsey, garnered significant praise, being described as a “different animal” and recognized as a “big-game player,” following a remarkable player-of-the-match performance in his initial competitive appearance in seven months.
The 31-year-old Glasgow back-row competitor had faced a period of inactivity since March, due to a hamstring injury sustained ahead of Scotland’s concluding Six Nations match against France.
That incident impacted the remainder of his season and minimized his prospects of securing a spot in the British and Irish Lions contingent for this summer’s tour across his home country, Australia.
Dempsey’s journey back to the field included a pre-season game with Warriors against Northampton, followed by a groin injury during warm-ups before the scheduled URC debut against Sharks, prolonging his absence for another three weeks.
However, his performance displayed minimal evidence of any rust, as he spearheaded Glasgow’s attack against the visiting Bulls, amassing 23 carries. Warriors overcame a 12-7 deficit with two tries in the final phase of a highly competitive encounter, ultimately winning 21-12, marking their fourth victory in five games before the pause for international matches.
Fixture
United Rugby Championship
Glasgow
Bulls
A notable moment unfolded after Warriors reclaimed the lead with a penalty try at 64 minutes. Dempsey intercepted the kick-off and surged upfield, directly confronting Bulls player Jeandré Rudolph, who was then removed from the game following the robust clash.
“Honestly, when he’s in top condition, he’s an entirely different player,” commented Glasgow centre Sione Tuipulotu, who also scored an initial try during another effective showing before returning to the Scotland captaincy this week.
“I anticipated this level of performance. Having known him for a while, I expected such a showing. He is an extremely valuable asset to our team. He consistently drove us forward. There’s no need to communicate anything; just provide him with the ball and let him progress.”
While other commendable performances were witnessed, including those from Tuipulotu, Stafford McDowall, Max Williamson, Matt Fagerson, and Gregor Brown, Glasgow captain Kyle Steyn emphasized the substantial impact of Dempsey’s return on the Warriors.
“He is among our best ball-carriers, and typically delivers standout performances after returning from injury,” Steyn commented. “We are truly excited to have him back. He is crucial during intense moments, rising to the occasion.”
Head coach Franco Smith admitted to contemplating Dempsey’s removal given his prolonged absence, but kept the No.8 on for the entirety of the 80 minutes, underscoring his continuing influence.
“He was exceptional,” Smith said. “He clearly intended to make a significant contribution, and I believe he would have been unhappy if I had substituted him sooner! He efficiently managed the intensity of the game and was very focused. His performance truly commends all the hard work he has dedicated.”
Dempsey, participating in his initial match for Glasgow since January, noted that there might have been less challenging games for his comeback, particularly considering the Bulls’ intensely physical style of play during collisions and breakdowns.
However, he believes experiencing such intensity during his first game back will positively impact his upcoming involvement in the Scotland camp on Sunday, leading to the first of four autumn Tests next Saturday against the USA, with New Zealand arriving at Murrayfield the following week.
“Honestly, it wasn’t comfortable, returning after six or seven months to face one of the best teams in the competition, considering their playing style,” Dempsey mentioned to Premier Sports. “It was difficult, but having these guys by your side makes it more manageable.”
“At my age—I’m now 31—I hope to quickly regain my form. It is about acclimatizing the lungs and getting the legs moving again. When you compete against a team of that calibre, it accelerates the process. It was beneficial.”
Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend was likely encouraged by Dempsey’s performance as he considers his back-row strategies in the upcoming weeks.
His options include the promising Brown, whose strength, athleticism, and adept handling skills present a compelling combination.
The 24-year-old ‘hybrid’ forward has started in two of Scotland’s most recent three Tests at lock alongside Grant Gilchrist, but with Lion Scott Cummings and fellow Warrior Max Williamson back in the second-row contention, another robust performance at blindside may increase Brown’s prospects for further starts in navy blue.
“Although Gregor has frequently played at lock recently, it isn’t his primary position,” Smith added. “It’s not surprising that he performed well at six, as that is his preferred role.
“I believe his versatility—his capabilities in scrums and running—is crucial. The ability to move effectively around the field after the blood rushes to your legs during a scrum or maul is important. He is an effective ball-carrier and brings physicality between the 15s. He is a commendable player.”
