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Rugby

30th Nov 2014

Bernard Jackman’s Grenoble defeat four-time European Cup champs Toulouse

Irish players James Hart and Chris Farrell were involved as helped their side climb to fourth

Patrick McCarry

A supreme defensive effort was required by Grenoble to secure their first away win over Toulouse in 21 years

Grenoble’s quest to reach the Top 14 play-offs and qualify for the Champions Cup was boosted by a superb 25-22 win away against the most successful team of the Heineken Cup era.

Grenoble’s sterling defence will have delighted coaches Bernard Jackman and Mike Prendergast as the side climbed into the league’s top four. Out-half Jonathan Wisniewski teed up South African winger Gio Aplon for the game’s opening try then kept Grenoble ticking over with penalties.

Irish scrum-half James Hart kicked two second-half penalties that proved crucial for Grenoble. It was left to Wisniewski, however, to slot over the winning penalty. It is the first time since 1993 that Grenoble beat Toulouse – winners of four European Cups during their peak – away from home.

Wisniewski tweeted this picture of the post-match celebrations (Hart has the E.T towel over his head):

Over in the Aviva Premiership, former Ulster out-half Gareth Steenson equalled a league record by knocking over nine penalties in Exeter Chiefs’ fine 27-14 win over Saracens.

Exeter Chiefs v Saracens - Aviva Premiership