Kinghorn debut brace helps Stade Toulousain to big win over Cardiff
- 1030
A flurry of tries, including two from debutant full-back Blair Kinghorn, and the reliable boot of Thomas Ramos led Stade Toulousain to a resounding 52-7 triumph over Cardiff Rugby in Pool 2 of the Investec Champions Cup.
Wings Matthis Lebel, second-row Richie Arnold and full-back Kinghorn all crossed the line in the opening 25 minutes, with flanker Anthony Jelonch grabbing a fourth Stade Toulousain first-half try.
Ramos added all the extras - plus a penalty - to send them in 31-7 up at the break following a half in which Cardiff Rugby saw centre Uilisi Halaholo handed a yellow card on 37 minutes.
Wing Arthur Retiere then got the scoring started in the second half with a display of determination and power, with Ramos proving just as consistent with his kicking.
Replacement Alban Placines scored the penultimate try of the afternoon, with another replacement in Baptiste Germain converting before Kinghorn finished things off in the closing seconds with the afternoon's final play - again converted by Germain.
Stade Toulousain used the width well throughout, with Lebel crossing in the corner for the opener, and almost repeating the feat five minutes later but opting instead to set Arnold free on the inside.
Cardiff Rugby endeavoured to stay in touch, but could only notch what turned out to be just the one consolation score, with a try from Mackenzie Martin, powering over the line, converted by Tinus de Beer.
It was the perfect start for Stade Toulousain, who are looking for a record-extending sixth title in the Investec Champions Cup this season. They will face Harlequins away next weekend, with Cardiff Rugby hosting Bath Rugby.