Cardiff captain Alun Lawrence says his side will take plenty from their opening European outing in Paris, after a resilient first-half performance gave way to a testing second period against Stade Français.

Cardiff delivered exactly what they had prepared throughout the week and earned a deserved lead at the interval, matching the hosts physically and tactically in the opening 40 minutes.

“It was pretty tough to take, especially seeing as the first half we were right in it,” said Lawrence. “We stuck to what we planned, we were leading at half time, and the boys were excellent. We just couldn’t quite replicate that in the second half. They had a lot of entries into our 22 and if you give an opposition like Stade, away from home, that many opportunities, they’re going to punish you.”

Stade Français’ speed and fluency began to tell after the break, with their ability to move the ball quickly stretching Cardiff repeatedly. Still, Lawrence stressed how proud he was of the character shown by an inexperienced travelling squad.

“They are an exciting team, the way they move the ball in and out of hand, especially in that second half. Of course it causes problems, puts us under pressure. But I’m really proud of the boys. It’s a young group, with three debutants, boys coming back from injuries, and a couple making their first starts. They dug in really well. At no point did we ever throw the towel in—kept knocking on the door. So we’re disappointed, gutted, but really proud at the same time.”

Several rising players took centre stage in Paris, gaining invaluable experience in a demanding European environment. Lawrence highlighted their performances as a major positive.

“These are days where boys learn so much. Spectacles like today, European campaigns, they’re moments that stand out in careers. For him ( Matty Young ) to get his first start, get on the scoreboard, set one up for Iwan ( Stephens ) on his return from injury—it’s great to see. And obviously Harry Wilde coming on early, only his second appearance, had a lot to do. I’m chuffed for those boys.”

“Elijah had some really nice touches on the ball, and you could see the future of the club out there. Really exciting prospects, and I’m proud of how they carried themselves in the Cardiff jersey.”

Though the result stung, Lawrence insisted the collective effort and emerging talent give Cardiff plenty of belief for the rest of the European campaign.