Superstar Parisse signs off in style
The Rugby Paper|May 21, 2023
SERGIO Parisse got the send off he deserved as Toulon ended their Challenge Cup final curse by thrashing Glasgow at the Aviva Stadium. 
BEN JAYCOCK
Superstar Parisse signs off in style

Set to turn 40 in September, this season will be the Italian No.8’s last and he played a huge part in ending Toulon’s run of four successive defeats in Challenge Cup finals.

The victory was also the perfect farewell to head coach Franck Azema, who is rejoining Perpignan next season.

Azema’s side became the first team to win both European Cups by showcasing a masterclass in how to play a final while Glasgow were wasteful when presented with opportunities in their first ever European final.

Toulon overpowered them and were ruthless when it mattered. Baptiste Serin scored a brace with further tries from Parisse, Ihaia West, Jiuta Naqoli Wainiqolo and Waisea Nayacalevu Vuidravuwalu securing their first major trophy since lifting the Champions Cup in 2015.

Parisse said: “It’s good for the team and for me personally – I try to enjoy every moment with the team, and I’m happy because I think we really deserve the win.

This story is from the May 21, 2023 edition of The Rugby Paper.

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This story is from the May 21, 2023 edition of The Rugby Paper.

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