Plisson ends Bath's European Challenge Cup hopes

Stade Francais 28-25 Bath Rugby, Stade Jean-Bouin
Scorecard

Jules Plisson contributed with 18 points including a last-minute drop goal as Stade Francais edged out Bath with a 28-25 victory at Stade Jean-Bouin to reach the final of the European Challenge Cup.

Stade Francais will now take on Gloucester Rugby in the final of the tournament at Murrayfield Stadium on 12th May.

After Plisson and George Ford exchanged penalties, Geoffrey Doumayrou crossed over for hosts to gain a five point lead. Plisson kicked his second penalty in the 16th minute but Ford once again replied back at the stroke of half-time as Bath trailed by five points heading into half-time.

Plisson further extended Stade Francais advantage in the second half with a converted try in the 47th minute to stretch the lead to 12 points.

However, Todd Blackadder's men made an incredible comeback between 62nd and 70th minute as Semesa Rokoduguni along with replacements Robbie Fruean and Elliott Stooke touched down while Ford added two conversions to make it 18-25 in favour of the visitors.

Despite, having the momentum on their side, Bath allowed Hugh Pyle to stroll across the post in the 77th minute while Plisson continued his good run with a conversion followed by a drop goal to reclaim a three point lead.

Ford had a chance to level the scores but missed out on a penalty in the 82nd minute as Stade Francais completed a three-point victory to progress to the finals.