Munster took control as the half closed when they caught the Scarlets snoozing, taking a quick line-out to send flanker Wallace away and under the posts without a hand laid on him.

BBC: Scarlets 16-29 Munster

With the Blues seeking a bonus point the visitors' resolve seemed to strengthen, though, and after seeing out the sin-bin period flanker Burban struck back, shrugging off Thomas in a bullocking run down the flank for his side's second try.

BBC: Blues 31-21 Stade Francais

Hopley contrasted Williams' 12-month ban with the less severe punishments handed out to South Africa flanker Schalk Burger for eye-gouging and to former Bath lock Justin Harrison for admitting three drug-related charges.

BBC: Players' boss slams Williams ban