JACKSON SHINES AS WASPS CRUSH CHAMPIONS TOULON

SCOTLAND stand-off Ruaridh Jackson showed his European pedigree as Wasps proved too hot for reigning European champions Toulon in their comprehensive 32-6 win. Jackson (right) scored one try, set up another and kicked nine points as Dai Young’s men served notice of their intent with a resounding victory that takes them to the top of Pool Five. The French giants — the peerless kings of the continent for the last three seasons — suffered their heaviest defeat since 2010. A week after thrashing Leinster in Dublin, this was further, compelling evidence that Wasps are poised to reclaim their place among the elite of northern-hemisphere clubs. Jackson tweeted afterwards: ‘What a win, seriously good two weeks, and another massive defensive performance. Thanks for all the support, amazing crowd today.’ There were two tries for Fijian Nathan Hughes, the rampaging bull of a No 8. He was part of an outstanding Wasps back row — along with captain James Haskell and supreme ex-Wallaby openside George Smith — who eclipsed the vaunted trio ranged against them. Wasps — with former England coach Stuart Lancaster in attendance at the Ricoh Arena — were two tries to the good within 11 magical minutes. First, after Frank Halai crashed forward on the right, the ball was switched to Hughes took a lofted pass by Jackson to score. Then the Scot made and finished a magnificent try. Jackson’s deft chip into the Toulon half was gathered by Joe Simpson and the scrum-half’s quickfire pass released Haskell. He galloped ahead and sent Jackson away to the posts. They had exposed the jugular and Wasps did not release their grip, as a penalty by Elliot Daly and one from Jackson helped them to a 20-6 half-time lead. The rout continued as Charles Piutau scorched clear in midfield and put Halai away to touch down, before a line-out catch and drive paved the way for Hughes’ second try.