Warriors' European quest ends in Paris

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Stade Francais 33 Worcester Warriors 10

Amlin Challenge Cup

WORCESTER Warriors' dreams of European success came to an end in Paris as Stade Francais secured a 33-10 victory in the Amlin Challenge Cup decider.

Richard Hill's men knew only a victory over the French giants by eight clear points would be enough to seal a place in the quarter finals.

But any hopes were dealt a blow in the first half as tries from Paul Warwick, Sergio Parisse and Morgan Turinui gave the hosts a commanding 21-3 lead at the break.

Andy Goode got one back for Warriors but that was to be their only response as Paul Sackey and Byron Kelleher went over to complete a convincing win for Stade.

In the early stages, it looked like it could possibly be Warriors' day as Stade fly half Jules Plisson missed his first opportunity at the posts before Goode slotted Worcester into the lead with a fifth minute penalty.

But Stade's response was decisive and immediate as lock Pascal Pape drove forward to put his side on the attack.

Warwick then took a quick tap penalty before crashing over in the corner, which Plisson converted for a 7-3 lead.

Despite conceding the early try, Warriors managed to hold their own with Marcel Garvey and Dale Rasmussen looking lively.

But as the half wore on Stade looked increasing likely to score and after an ambitious drop goal attempt went wide they got their second try.

From a line-out, Parisse controlled from the back before forcing his way over. Plisson added the extras.

Stade were now beginning to turn the screw and the game looked all but over on the stroke of half-time as some superb handling saw Turinui glide over. Plisson converted to give his side a 21-3 advantage.

Looking to put the result to bed, Stade came out on the attack once again and it took some great defensive work from Josh Drauniniu to stop Julien Arias down the line.

But, still with the hope of rescuing the situation, Warriors were starting play with real intent.

And they got their reward on 53 minutes when Goode produced a lovely chip and chase to pounce and score. The fly half then added the extras to reduce the arrears to 21-10.

Hopes of a famous comeback, though, were ended on the hour as a kick in behind bounced kindly for Sackey to score for the try bonus point.

Warriors continued to battle on but Stade had the final say, with five minutes to go, when Kelleher dived in under the posts.