Zürcher Nachrichten - Bayonne crush Clermont to set up Toulouse showdown in Top 14 semis

Returning to the knock-out stage of the French championship for the first time in 33 years, Bayonne mastered the wet conditions best to remain undefeated at home this season.

Clermont, champions in 2010 and 2017, never got into the game which was played in stormy conditions with persistent rain preventing play from developing.

The winner of the tie at a sold-out Stade Jean-Dauger will now face record 23-time champions Toulouse next Friday in Lyon.

Bayonne's hopes of reaching the last four had been dealt a blow with former England centre Manu Tuilagi sidelined with a rib issue.

But they were dominant throughout, with fly-half Joris Segonds scoring two penalties and a drop goal, his fourth of the season, in the first half.

Clermont's Argentinian veteran Benjamin Urdapilleta, in his final professional appearance, accounted for their only points with a penalty for 9-3 after 27 minutes.

Fly-half Camille Lopez came off the bench after 55 minutes for the hosts and proved decisive against his former team with his first kick setting up Tom Spring to finish behind the line (14-3).

"We weren't up to the task in many areas," said Clermont manager Christophe Urios.

"It's not a problem of adaptation, it's more a problem of attitude, behaviour, and solidity.

"The best team won. My overwhelming feeling is one of bitterness."

On Saturday, Toulon host Castres with a semi-final spot against Bordeaux-Begles at stake.

The Top 14 final takes place on June 28 in Paris.

O.Pereira--NZN