Toulouse stunned as Sheffield show promotion credentials

Drew Darbyshire 25 Mar 2023 6:09 PM

Mark Aston Sheffield Eagles PA — Photo: Richard Sellers/PA Archive/PA Images

Sheffield continued their strong start to the season with a 32-4 win over Super League promotion hopefuls Toulouse at the Olympic Legacy Park.

Mark Aston’s side ran in six tries against Toulouse, who are back in the Championship after suffering relegation from Super League last season.

The Eagles started in electric fashion, having led 26-0 at the break thanks to first half tries from Jesse Sene-Lefao, Vila Halafihi, Anthony Thackeray, Ben Jones-Bishop and Jason Bass.

Toulouse produced a better display in the second half as they scored a consolation through France international centre Mathieu Jussaume.

Ireland international Ollie Roberts extended Sheffield’s lead with 10 minutes remaining to wrap up an impressive 32-4 win for the Eagles on home soil, with Cory Aston kicking five goals.

A flying start for the Eagles

It has been a dream start to the season for Sheffield, who operate on a part-time budget. They currently sit third in the Championship table, level on points with Toulouse, who are in second place.

The Eagles are just two points behind league leaders Featherstone, who have a game in hand on Sheffield. Promotion favourites Rovers welcome York to Post Office Road on Sunday afternoon.

Aston’s side have won five from their first seven games of the Championship campaign. They’ve already beaten Barrow, Batley, London, Widnes and now Toulouse, with their only defeats coming against Halifax in the opening round and Bradford last week.