'Defence key' stresses Roberts
Mon, 24 May 2010 08:03
Celebrations: Cardiff's Jamie Roberts and Dafydd Hewitt
Cardiff Blues try-scorer Jamie Roberts claimed it was his side's brave defensive effort that won them the Amlin Challenge Cup in Marseille on Sunday afternoon.
In becoming the first Welsh side to win a European title, the Blues also ensured there will be four Welsh regions in the Heineken Cup next season as their 28-21 triumph bagged a place for the Scarlets.
The Blues went into the game as underdogs, but Roberts and co. produced a stunning performance to upset the odds in front of close to 50,000 fans at the Stade Veleddrome.
"It is a great feeling to have won a European title, especially the way Toulon were playing," said Roberts, whose powerful angled run gave the Blues their first try of the match with 50 minutes on the clock.
Speaking to the official ERC website after his team's triumph, Roberts added: "The 10-minute spell just before they scored their try was when we won the game. Everyone put their bodies on the line and we kept them out until we leaked a try at the end.
"I don't think I touched the ball in the first half, so it was nice to be on hand to take a pass close to the line and score that try. We struggled to win possession in the first half and our lineout struggled a bit.
"But full edit to everyone from 1-23 - the boys that came off the bench did a great job. I don't think I'll forget the final few minutes when Toulon were running everything.
"The defensive effort was superb and it was great to see Chris Czekaj rip the ball off on of their players and then Richie Rees kicked the ball out.
"It's great for the players, the coaches and the traveling support as well."