PERHAPS ESPNSTAR WERE RIGHT AFTER ALL

I went to Delaneys and watched the game on Sunday night.

Oh dear oh dear.

Leicester only have themseves to blame.

They let in a soft try after only two minutes, then dominated the rest of the first half but contirved to drop the ball three times with the try line beckoning, and could only manage to score three penalties to go in at half time 10-9 down.

In the second half play was much more even but the crucial first try of the half went to Toulouse. It was a great try if you ignore the fact that the final pass was clearly forward. Sadly that left Leicester eigth points adrift and playing catch-up rugby, which always leaves a side vulnerable as they have to commit all to attack and leave their defence exposed. Sure enough, after an exchange of penalties, Toulouse scored another try to stretch their lead further and it was all over. A consolation try in the final minute for Leicester made the scoreline slightly less embarrassing but in the end we had the chances to win and just didn't take them. Against opposition like Toulouse you can't afford to do that.

And merci to the Frenchman who bought me a consolation beer. Your Toulouse accent was so thick, and my French so rusty, that I could barely understand a word you said but the beer was much appreciated, and needed.

Next year...