European Challenge Cup: Lyon 31-17 Worcester Warriors

Billy Searle's late try proved to be in vain for Worcester

Worcester's European hopes came to an end as they were beaten 31-17 by Lyon in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup.

Tom Howe's early try was cancelled out by Baptiste Couilloud soon after.

Romain Taufifenua put Lyon ahead after they stole the ball from a Worcester ruck as they led at half-time.

Vivien Devisme extended the lead shortly after the break, but Ted Hill got on the end of an Oli Morris kick soon after to keep Worcester in it before a late try for either side.

Billy Searle crossed for a third Warriors' try with four minutes to go and the replacement's conversion seemed to have secured a tense finish.

But Pierre-Louis Barassi scored straight after the restart for the hosts to end any doubts as Worcester lost for the 14th time in 16 visits to France in European competition.

Lyon, who are seventh in the Top 14, will host Glasgow in the quarter-finals after the Scottish side beat Newcastle 27-17 at Kingston Park.

Lyon: Laporte; Tuisova, Barassi, Ngatai, Dumortier; Sopoaga, Couilloud; Rey, Marchand, Bamba, Lambey, Taofifenua, Cretin, Fainga'a, Taufua (capt).

Replacements: Charcosset, Devisme, Kodela, Mayanavanua, Sobela Pélissié, Veredamu, Berdeu.

Worcester: Doel; Howe, O Morris, Beck, Hearle; Smith, Simpson; Sutherland, Annett, Judge, Clegg, G Kitchener, Batley, Hill (capt), Vailanu.

Replacements: Miller, Waller, McCallum, Lewis, Forsythe, Chudley, Searle, Atkinson.

Referee: Gianluca Gnecchi (Italy).

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