
Rugby
Share
Published 15:28 11 Jan 2020 GMT
Explore more on these topics:
Stuart McCloskey is tackled by Arthur Iturria and Damian Penaud of Clermont during the Heineken Champions Cup Pool 3 match between ASM Clermont Auvergne and Ulster at Stade Marcel-Michelin. (Photo by John Dickson/Sportsfile)[/caption]
Clermont's coaching staff had obviously spotted a tell in the Ulster scrum and relayed the message to their front row during the break. In the opening exchanges of the second half, the Clermont scrum monstered Ulster's and Moore was the man pinged. He appeared to be carrying an ankle knock but tried to play on a few more minutes.
Moore's last action of the game was to desperately but unsuccessfully attempt to slow down Alivereti Raka from an offside position. It was a nice try and Iain Henderson lumped in with a tackle too but there was no denying Raka. 14-10 soon became 16-10 when Parra converted from the left-hand touchline. Not long after, Addison limped out of the game and Matt Faddes came on in his place.
A Cooney penalty made it 16-13 but Ulster were left frustrated when the referee called play to a halt, with the visitors threatening a try, as George Moala lay injured inside the Clermont 22. Ulster had to settle for the three points but that was the last of their genuine try-scoring chances.
Two more Parra penalties extended the Clermont lead to 22-13 and a late Moala try - with subs Bill Johnstown and Dave Shanahan exposed in defence - ensured there would not even be a bonus point to take back to Belfast.
Clermont join Leinster in the last eight while all is not lost for Ulster. They can join them by beating Bath at Kingspan Stadium next weekend.
As for Alexandre Fischer, Andy Farrell and Ireland have been warned.
OUR MAN OF THE MATCH: Alexandre Fischer (Clermont)
Prendergast admits huge disappointment at Munster situation
Not ideal. It’s worrying times for Munster rugby at the moment, with problems on and off the field. After being knocked out of both the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup, controversy then surrounded the appointment of Roger Randle for next season, due to historic rape accusations. The New Zealander is coming in to replace senior […]
Rugby
19h
Kerry legend slams players for reaction to Michael Murphy punch
Not under his watch! Although the dust has pretty much settled after the Michael Murphy incident during Donegal’s NFL Division 1 final win over Kerry last month, one Kingdom legend is still not pleased with what went on. Most of the criticism was levelled at Murphy for his clear-as-day punch on Dylan Casey, as well […]
Rugby
21h
Rugby
The SportsJOE Friday Pub Quiz: Week 134
Rugby