Toulouse overpower brave Cardiff

The inexperienced hosts produced some admirable defence in the opening stages, but their eagerness to compete at the breakdown saw them concede two penalties which were duly kicked by Romain Ntamack – he tallied 14 points over the course of the game.

However, they refused to roll over and their best attacking phase of the game resulted in Josh Adams crossing under the posts and Jason Tovey’s conversion saw the hosts take a surprise lead.

Cardiff were resolute but 2021 EPCR European Player of the Year Antoine Dupont made a break shortly before half time, creating the opportunity for Anthony Jelonch to score Toulouse’s first try.

Dupont was the catalyst again just before half time as he broke from deep to kickstart a move which resulted in Pita Ahki going over.

Cardiff came into the second period just 13 points down on the five-time European champions, but as the game approached the hour mark they began to fatigue and Dupont got himself on the scoresheet as he fended off several defenders to skip over the line.

Dupont then turned supplier once again as he dropped a pinpoint cross-kick into the hands of Arthur Bonneval who had the simplest of tasks to score try number four for Toulouse on 65 minutes.

Cardiff full-back Jacob Beetham was sent off for a high tackle late on– a disappointing end to memorable debut –shortly before Joe Tekori went over as he benefitted from a dominant scrum.

Cardiff travel to Harlequins in Round 2 next Saturday while Toulouse are at home to Wasps the following day.

via www.epcrugby.com