Three-times champions Toulouse secured their place in the European Cup rugby final after seeing off a spirited challenge from outsiders London Irish for a 21-15 victory at Twickenham today.
London Irish, in the semi-finals for the first time, had early hope after a try by Topsy Ojo but scores by Manu Ahotaeiloa and William Servat within seven minutes gave Toulouse a deserved 15-10 halftime lead.
Sailosi Tagicakibau brought Irish back level at 15-15 early in the second half but two penalties by Jean-Baptiste Elissalde opened up a crucial lead and the experienced French side, appearing in their eighth semi-final, were able to see the game out.
In the May 24 final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium the French club will face either Saracens or 2006 champions Munster, who meet on Sunday in Coventry.
Reuters
