The Scarlets’ hopes of European glory came to an end on Saturday night as they fell to a disappointing defeat to big-spending Toulon in France.
Nigel Davies’ men qualified for the last eight of the Amlin Challenge Cup as one of the three best runners up from the six Heineken Cup pools but their campaign ended with a 38-12 reverse in the Cote D’Arzur.
Stephen Jones contributed all 12 points for the Scarlets courtesy of a brace of penalties in either half but five tries from the home side and an impeccable kicking display from Jonny Wilkisnon prevented their progression to the semi-finals.
“I was very impressed with Toulon – we were second best by a long way,” said Scarlets boss Nigel Davies who was particularly honest in his post-match assessment.
“We realised that coming here would be a very difficult task. We prepared well but it was just beyond us.
“There were a number of penalties that we gave away in key moments that let them build their game and, with someone like Jonny Wilkinson at No10, you just can’t afford to do that.
“All in all, we were second best and they were a far better team than us.”
Toulon led 16-6 at the break and 21-6 after 41 minutes but the Scarlets hit back and remained in touch until the closing stages when three tries in the final seven minutes gave the scoreline an uncharitable feel.
The Scarlets now turn their attentions to the remaining Magners League games as they look to pip the Blues and Dragons to the country’s third and final Heineken Cup spot for next season.
