Champions Cup: Lyon takes the bonus against the Bulls and can believe in qualifying

What a performance from the Lyonnais.

Inconstant since the start of the season, the LOU has surely held its benchmark match with this big victory against the Bulls (31-7).

Lyon built their success on an excellent first half that started in the best of ways with Julien Marchand's try in the 4th minute of play. The locals then relied on an impressive defense to disgust a powerless Bulls team.

The first leg had resulted in a festival of tries (42-36 for the Bulls) but this evening, the South Africans did not find the solution against the excellent Lyon defense.

The Bulls however dominated and had possession during the first half but took a lesson in realism from the players of Xavier Garbajosa.

Just before half-time, Doussain (37') then Marchand for his double (40+1'), showered the hopes of the visitors with two tries in quick succession.

The yellow card received by Matenzima (40+1') reinforced the feeling that the game was over at halftime.

Lyon only had to score a try to achieve their goal and clinch the attacking bonus.

Qualification seems very likely

However, on returning from the locker room, the LOU conceded their only try of the match on an interception by the back Arendse, faster than Arnold, who will go flat after a run of 80 meters.

But the Lyonnais responded a few moments later with a try from Berdeu (57') to ensure victory and the attacking bonus.

The only bad news of the evening could well be the injury of Félix Lambey (shoulder) which came out during the game (36').

The Lyonnais players have fulfilled their mission and are now awaiting the results of Racing and Gloucester, both on the road, who will have to achieve a feat to prevent LOU from not seeing the knockout stages of the Champions Cup.