Saracens narrowly beat Clermont Auvergne

A strong finish from Saracens gave them a winning start in this season's European Rugby Champions Cup as they secured a 30-23 victory over Clermont Auvergne this afternoon.

The English side, who knocked their French opponents out of the Heineken Cup last season, made a bright start when Chris Ashton scored a try just three minutes in, but it was cancelled out by Zac Guildford moments later.

David Strettle forced his way over for the home side, but a Camille Lopez penalty ensured that the sides remained locked at 10-10 at the break.

Guildford added his second try of the game shortly after the restart to give Clermont the lead, but Strettle had completed his brace moments later to keep the teams level.

Charlie Hodgson and Lopez both made penalties just five minutes apart as it appeared as though neither side could hold onto a lead, but Ashton sprinted over for his second try late on to give Saracens the the win.