Saints lose to Racing Metro 92, 20-11, in the new European Champions Cup.
Conditions were hot and humid by the time Saints set out onto the pitch in Paris, for the late kick off time against Racing Metro 92.
A quick try in the first 4 minutes showed dominance by Racing. This was then converted by the Irish fly-half, Jonny Sexton.
Possession was very equal from both sides for a considerable amount of time. However, Racing looked more dangerous as they added more pressure onto the Saints defence. With possession being equal but also the errors: Saints lost simple linesouts which, for them, is unusual.
Penalties by both fly-halves finished the first 40 minutes with Saints trailing 10-3.
A massive push was needed by Saints to insure the win in the first round of the European Champions Cup.
A continued theme of penalties started off the half. On the contrary, Saints were looking likely for the win. A try by Phil Dowson gave them a glimmer of hope, although, an unusual miss by Myler took them to 11-13. All Saints needed to do was keep their defencive wall strong and score a try.
All seemed well. Saints had possession with seconds left on the clock, Ben Foden kicked the ball, hoping it would go deep into Racings 22, however a man charged down by Racing Metro player, Andreau. This gave him the open chance to score a try. With 80 minutes left on the clock, the game was over and there was a loss for Saints.
Although, Racing had two yellow cards, Saints couldn't quite push to the victory. In my opinion, the ref did not make it easy - some decisions were made which went against Saints to cost them the win.
My Saintsman of the Match: Luther Burrell
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