Ulster only held out for half an hour, the time for a first try, scored by Nick Timoney. Then came the disaster. The Clermontois first equalized thanks to Peceli Yato, before unfolding and humiliating the Irish, unable to compete against the power of ASM (53-14).
Thanks to this success, Christophe Urios’ men are qualified for the semi-finals of the Challenge Cup, the second European Cup, during which they will face the South African franchise of the Sharks, winners of Edinburgh (36-30) , the weekend of May 4-5.
Rarely have the Clermontois seemed so solid and powerful. After equalizing in the 18th minute, two penalties from Anthony Belleau and a try from Pita Gus Sowakula gave the advantage to ASM Clermont, who never let go. Nick Timoney nevertheless maintained hope for the Irish by flattening in the Clermont goal after the siren.
The second period was a demonstration. Alex Newsome was the first to score a try, before Pita Gus Sowakula scored twice. Entering the game, Rob Simmons also participated in the party, as did Joris Jurand, who sealed the final score after Peceli Yato’s double. Powerless offensively and overwhelmed defensively, Ulster were never able to react, and therefore saw their Challenge Cup adventure end in the quarter-final.
ASM Clermont is getting closer to a new title. In 1999, 2007 and 2019, the Clermontois had already won this second European Cup. To secure a fourth, however, it will be necessary to get rid of the Sharks and their numerous world champions such as Lukhanyo Am, Makazole Mapimpi, Eben Etzebeth, Ox Nche and Bongi Mbonambi. A very, very big piece.
