Glasgow's Champions Cup Hopes Dashed by Toulon in Quarter-Final

Glasgow Warriors' bid to reach their first Investec Champions Cup semi-final ended in defeat as they lost 22-19 to RC Toulon at Scotstoun. Despite being favourites due to their strong home record and Toulon's domestic struggles, Franco Smith's side fell short. The three-time European champions Toulon secured a tumultuous 22-19 win, scoring four tries to Glasgow's three, to set up a semi-final clash against Leinster or Sale. Glasgow were forced into a late change when Max Williamson was ruled out, replaced by Macenzzie Duncan on the bench. The home side took the lead after a cagey start, with Alex Samuel and Ben Afshar combining to send Stafford McDowall over for the first try. Toulon quickly responded through Jeremy Sinzelle and Gael Drean. A trademark Kyle Steyn run put Glasgow back in Toulon territory, but Sione Tuipulotu was held up just short of the line. After Junior Kpoku was yellow-carded for Toulon's ill-discipline, Glasgow took advantage with McDowall's pass to Ollie Smith resulting in a try. The hosts soon found themselves on the back foot, with Jean-Baptiste Gros scoring a converted try to level the score at 12-12. Toulon took the lead through Melvyn Jaminet's pass to Drean, who scored his second try. Glasgow regained the lead in the second half with Gregor Hiddleston stretching for the line, but Toulon broke through when Nacho Brex burst through to score. Warriors' late surge was thwarted as Toulon forced a turnover to seal the win. Meanwhile, Leinster Rugby booked their semi-final spot with a 43-13 win over Sale Sharks, scoring six tries to set up a clash against Toulon.