In front of a crowd of just 4,000 at Stade Jean-Bouin, Stade Francais demolished the Cardiff Blues by a score of 46-21 to reach the Champions Cup playoff final.
Six-try Stade were in imperious form, but it was their fifth which captured the imagination of viewers on S4C, as 33-year-old Sergio Parisse tore the Blues asunder with a magisterial moment from inside his own 22.
The Italian's iconic status is such that you can almost appreciate his extremely offside position as he rushes to intercept a pass. His breaking of two tackles is spectacular if expected. But from there, his look up and deft crossfield kick towards the left wing is a thing of sheer beauty, and it sets Stade away for their fifth try of the evening, effectively ending the tie as a contest.
And if you get the chance, try and find footage of Sergio Parisse's intercept and crossfield kick (yep!) To set up Stade's fifth try
— Rugby World (@Rugbyworldmag) May 19, 2017
Parisse kick, Stade Francais' fifth try
Is there anything Sergio Parisse can't do? #Intercept #Crossfield pic.twitter.com/Oj0GLmDKuy
— RugbyLAD (@RugbyLAD7) May 19, 2017
Naturally, those who caught the moment were quick to announce their appreciation.
Sergio Parisse. What a player.
— Simon Thomas (@simonrug) May 19, 2017
LIVE: That piece of play by Sergio Parisse, which led to Stade's 5th try, has to be seen to be believed. Magic https://t.co/n0P3hkzRE5
— WalesOnline Rugby (@WalesRugby) May 19, 2017
Parisse. Genius. #BluesvStade
— Andy Davies (@adavies4) May 19, 2017
