Top 14 strugglers Stade Francais came out swinging against Saracens this afternoon in more ways than one.
Starting the match perfectly with a superb try, which they backed up with some rock-solid defensive work, it appeared as though Paul Gustard’s side were up for the challenge today.
Getting on top at scrum time, the Parisian side was frustrating the physical Sarries pack, forcing them into uncharacteristic mistakes.
Yet, as they have done all season, Stade Francais have proven to be their own worst enemies. This time it would be backrow Seko Macalou who completely lost his mind to be shown the most blatant of red cards.
Starting his play with a clear trip, the French international followed it up with a swinging arm to the head of Sarries scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl.
This moment of utter madness had Gustard in a state of disbelief in the coach box and caused a major ruckus, which referee Hollie Davidson handled masterfully.
To Stade’s credit they have fronted up and limited the damage thus far with the scores locked at 10 – 10 with 33 minutes played.
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