Biarritz Olympique coach Jack Isaac couldn't hide his frustration at losing a second Heineken Cup final, but also revealed his admiration for four times champions Toulouse.
There was certainly no disgrace in his side going down 21-19 to the record breakers, and scoring the only try of the game into the bargain, but even Isaac admitted there was a gulf between the two teams.
"The best team won. It was frustrating because we were so close on the scoreboard, but there is no doubt that Toulouse deserved their victory," said Isaac.
"They dominated for large parts of the game and their scrum really laid the foundation for their victory. They are a side that is dangerous all over the pitch and they were a little bit more mature than we were.
"But this experience will help us to grow as a team and become more confident. The quest for the Heineken Cup will continue next season and, hopefully, we will eventually make it third time lucky in a final."
