Toulon snatched a 19-19 draw against Stade Francais in a great game of rugby at the Stade de France on the weekend. The visitors scored a try in the corner with time up, then converted the kick from out wide.
The match was typically turbulant and recent Toulon signing Bakkies Botha made his presence felt. He was involved in most things, namely a scuffle early on as he claimed he was headbutted, and later at the end after Steffon Armitage scored the crucial try.
Armitage himself had a fantastic game, showing up in the loose at vital times and making two brilliant try saving tackles, one on fellow Englishman Paul Sackey. Unfortunately for both of those players, no matter how well they play in France, they're likely to be overlooked for higher honours due to the selection policy that is currently in place.
Pascal Pape, when he wasn't getting to know Botha, scored a very nicely taken try for the hosts following some great build up play by both Sackey and Felipe Contepomi.
There was a sad moment in the first half when flyhalf Jonny Wilkinson looked to have twisted a knee and/or ankle, leaving the field as a result. Matt Giteau stepped into his shoes though, and come the final moments of the game, he showed his pedigree with a superb conversion from out wide, earning Toulon the draw.
Below are extended highlights from this highly entertaining game of rugby. Enjoy.