Toulouse triumphed in a thrilling Investec Champions Cup final at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Thomas Ramos’ three extra-time penalties sealing the deal against Leinster.
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The match was a rollercoaster, with wing Matthis Lebel kicking off extra time with a try for the French side. However, Toulouse’s momentum was threatened when Richie Arnold was red-carded for a dangerous ruck clearout.
Leinster capitalised on the man advantage, leveling the score through Josh van der Flier. But it was Ramos who proved the hero, nailing two crucial penalties in the second half of extra time to secure Toulouse’s sixth Champions Cup title.
In regular time, replacement Ciaran Frawley had the chance to clinch it for Leinster but missed a last-minute drop-goal. The heartbreaking defeat marks Leinster’s third consecutive loss in Champions Cup finals, following back-to-back setbacks against La Rochelle.
Opinion on the performance of referee Matt Carley varied greatly.
Former England fly-half Andy Goode wrote: “Matt Carley has done Toulouse a solid,”
Another X User wrote: “Congratulations to Matt Carley for ruining a good game, sickens me to see such a terrible performance from a man in the middle, how it was yellow for Lowe and not even a check when Leinster were on the try line sickens me to see such poor officiating,”
A second said: “Turned on the Champions Cup Final, not for the Matt Carley show.”
Other fans praised Carley for his performance. One wrote: “Having been critical of reffing standards of late, especially in the Premiership, it must be said that Matt Carley has reffed well today. He’s been wise to some of the more streetwise/underhand practices that both of these teams employ & has been scrupulously fair.”
Another said: “Matt Carley playing a blinder- great to see a ref’ sorting out cheating @leinsterrugby at the breakdown. Long may it continue.”
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
Get ready for a surprising revelation from renowned rugby referee Nigel Owens, as he unveils his list of the top five captains he has officiated.
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw’s dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: “Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch.”
