Stade Francais too good for London Irish in Challenge Cup

London Irish have been beaten by Stade Francais in pool five of the Challenge Cup tonight.

Both teams started well and Andy Fenby and Jules Plisson went over for early tries, but London Irish moved ahead with a Shane Geraghty penalty.

However, Stade Francias continued the fast start with the game's third try in the 24th minute, Michael Van Vuuren pouncing and Jerome Porical finding success with the conversion.

Geraghty's kicking was in fine form and he notched another six for his team, but a late Porical penalty ensured that the team third in the table went into the break 20-14 ahead.

Porical's good night continued in the second half with a try and conversion, which left the Exiles on the defensive as the French national anthem echoed around the stadium.

Brian Smith's side then started to put their opponents under pressure as the second half ticked towards its conclusion. However, London Irish, who were attempting to make it four wins from four, were unable to claw their way back and saw Stade Francais grab a late try through Antoine Burban.