The final whistle goes and it's Toulon who have grounded out the 8 point victory in this grueling encounter. Credit to Clermont who battled back from a 9 point half-time interval to lead at one stage but it was the constant danger and threat of the home side that ultimately made the difference. Thanks for stopping in for our coverage, we look forward to bringing you more top rugby.

Clermont's task just got even more difficult as experienced second-row Julien Bonnaire will spend the remainder of the game in the sin bin.

TRY TOULON. The home side may have just got the decisive score and no surprise that it's try machine winger David Smith who gets over! Sanchez converts and all of a sudden there's eight between them. 27-19.

Both sides using plenty of subs, hoping they might tip the balance in their favour.

Toulon strike back with their first points of the half, penalty from Sanchez. This brings them back in front but only by the bare minimum as we are set up for a grandstand finish. 20-19 the score.

TRY CLERMONT. The visitor's dominant second half continues as they take the lead as a result of a try from the fan favorite and club icon Aurelien Rougerie. The conversion is not good but Clermont now lead 19-17.

Clermont enjoying the second half exchanges so far and a second James penalty of the half makes it just a 3 point game. 17-14.

Tense opening to the second period. Clermont manage to get some crucial points on the board through the boot of James though. 17-11

Second half is underway here!

TRY TOULON. That electrifying back line create another score as this time it's French international centre Maxime Mermoz who dots down. Nicolas Sanchez converts for what could be a massive score just before the break. 17-8 they lead.