Stade Francais v Harlequins, Amlin Cup ¼ Finals

Stade Jean Bouin

Our trip to Paris started by me seeing that Harlequins were playing Stade Francais at the Stade Jean Bouin on the Friday evening.  The may problem was that the match started at 9pm and wouldn't finish until 11pm, so getting back home would be difficult.  Hence the plan to stay for the weekend plus it coincided with our 20th Wedding Anniversary.  Although it was only Tom and I going to the match.

Interesting Design

We all walked to the Stade from the place we were staying and  arrived a little before the kick off.  We were glad we did as firstly the stadium itself was a rather interesting design and worth looking at.  Secondly there was a great atmosphere  around the place.  A jazz band were playing and a kids mini rugby match was taking place.  All very welcoming and Ben nearly joined Tom and I going to the game. 

Inside the Stade, we found our seats and found the place stunning.  I think wherever we sat the view would have been excellent.  Plus the evening sky made for an lovely backdrop.

Great View and Sky

Nick Evans and 3 points

The match was good fun and some excellent rugby was played.  Overall Harlequins were the better side although Stade Francais made a couple of nail biting runs in the second half, but their handling was not good nor their kicking.  Nick Evans kicked a wonderful drop goal as well as conversions and penalties, plus great tries from Mike Brown and Molenaar.

Happy Quin's Fans

Both Tom and I enjoyed both the match and the atmosphere. And the whole thing made better by Quins winning 29 points to 6 and going through to the semi finals against Northampton Saints on the 25th April.  That will be a tougher game I think.