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Lions Knocked Out of Challenge Cup After 20–20 Draw in Perpignan

A points-difference tiebreak put the French side into the last 16.

Overview

  • The must‑win pool match at Stade Aimé Giral finished 20–20, leaving both teams on eight points as Perpignan advanced on points difference.
  • A powerful set piece drove the Lions’ scoring, with a penalty try and a PJ Botha maul finish, while Chris Smith added two penalties and a conversion.
  • Perpignan clawed back through Alivereti Duguivalu’s late try and an Antoine Aucagne long‑range penalty to erase a 20–10 deficit.
  • Wet, windy conditions produced a forward‑heavy contest that limited clean attacking chances for both sides.
  • With their Challenge Cup bid over, the Lions turn fully to the URC and a looming away fixture against Ospreys.