Sorry Sale ripped apart by a slick French masterclass
WINGER Ben Cohen insisted a young Sale side must learn quickly from their mistakes after being beaten 36-17 and completely outplayed by Toulouse in yesterday’s Heineken Cup Pool Five encounter.
The three-time champions ran in five tries as an under-strength Sale team were put to the sword at Stade Ernest-Wallon.
And though the scoreline was diluted somewhat with two late consolation tries, Cohen admitted Kingsley Jones’ young guns found the going tough.
“We gave 100 per cent but it was a really tough match for us because of the number of injuries we’ve had. It is difficult enough to compete with the likes of Toulouse at full strength but with the number of players missing, it was a bridge too far,” he said.
“We must give Toulouse credit because we know they are a world class side who are always involved in the business end of the Heineken Cup. They have so much experience in their side and I’m sure the young lads will learn from the experience.”
Toulouse controlled the first half, Frenchman Maxime Medard opening the scoring before compatriot Vincent Clerc went over twice, setting a new Heineken Cup scoring record in the process.
And when Yves Donguy, a half-time replacement, added a brace immediately after the re-start, the win was sealed as well as a try-scoring bonus point.
The visitors rarely threatened to breach Toulouse’s stern defence, despite having much of the ball but with time running out and the home side content to let their foot off the gas, Sale restored some pride. Firstly, lock Rob O’Donnell crossed the white line following good work from David Tait in the line-out and then former England flyer Cohen pounced for a breakaway score.