Damian Penaud brilliance helps Clermont knock Bristol out of Challenge Cup

France star Damian Penaud claimed two tries as Bristol exited the Challenge Cup following a 33-26 last-16 defeat to three-time champions Clermont.

Tries from Tomas Lavanini, Les Bleus wing Penaud and George Moala helped the French club lead 22-20 at the end of an action-packed opening period at Ashton Gate.

Pat Lam’s Bears remained in contention thanks to England scrum-half Harry Randall and Semi Radradra each converting their own scores.

AJ MacGinty landed 16 points across the evening for the 2020 tournament winners, but rival fly-half Anthony Belleau kicked 13 of his own.

Penaud, who enjoyed a fine Guinness Six Nations campaign with his country, ultimately ended hopes of a fightback from the hosts with his second score of the game 10 minutes from time.

Scarlets await Clermont in the last eight after a stunning solo score from Vaea Fifita helped them to a 19-7 victory over Brive in Llanelli.

The Welsh club led 9-0 at the interval following three Sam Costelow penalties.

Brive reduced the deficit to two points early in the second half after former Ireland fly-half Stuart Olding added the extras to his own try.

Tongan lock Fifita lit up Parc Y Scarlets minutes later by running half the length of the field to cross before the hosts sealed progression courtesy of a late score from flanker Aaron Shingler.