The Lions failed to reach the EPCR Challenge Cup round of 16 after drawing with Perpignan at the Stade Aime Giral on Saturday night.
The 20-20 result saw Perpignan (+4) finish in fourth place above the Lions (–3) on points difference in Pool 2.
The hosts started with intent and applied early pressure, which was rewarded when flyhalf Antoine Aucagne slotted a penalty.
The Lions absorbed that early surge and began to impose themselves through sustained phases inside Perpignan territory. Their pressure paid off, resulting in a penalty try and a yellow card for hooker Ignacio Ruiz. Chris Smith then added a penalty to stretch the visitors’ lead to 10-3.
Perpignan responded before the break. No 8 Joaquin Oviedo powered over from close range to cut the deficit and Aucagne’s conversion ensured the teams went into half-time locked at 10-10.
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The third quarter developed into a tense arm-wrestle, with neither side able to find clear space. Smith eventually edged the Lions ahead with a well-struck penalty before hooker PJ Botha, recalled into the starting side, muscled his way over after a series of direct carries. Smith converted to give the Lions a 10-point cushion.
Perpignan refused to fade. Centre Alivereti Duguivalu sliced through the defensive line to score, with Aucagne again accurate from the tee to reduce the gap to three points. Sustained pressure followed, and Aucagne’s second penalty of the half levelled the scores at 20-20 with under 15 minutes remaining.
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The closing stages were intense and physical, with both teams trading territory and defensive sets, but neither could land the decisive blow. Despite late pressure at both ends, discipline and defence prevailed as the match ended all square.
The Lions now return to Vodacom URC action, travelling to Swansea to face the Ospreys.
PERPIGNAN – Tries: Joaquin Oviedo, Aliverti Duguivalu. Conversions: Antoine Aucagne (2). Penalties: Aucagne (2).
LIONS – Tries: PJ Botha, penalty try. Conversions: Chris Smith. Penalties: Smith (2).
Photo: @usap_officiel/X
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