Sébastien Coquelin is not only a French teacher and a tutor in Johnsons Boarding House; he is also the French voice of European Rugby!

As the French voice of European rugby, I flew to Dublin on Friday 30 April 2011 for the first semi-final of the H Cup between Leinster and Toulouse. I stayed in the same hotel as the Toulouse players; a perfect opportunity to get to know them and understand what was going through their mind prior to a crucial match. Tension was palpable the following day as I welcomed them in the magnificent Aviva Stadium. Leinster did not want to disappoint their public and a full house stadium of more than 50000 people gave them a rapturous applause when they entered the arena. I felt for the Toulouse players but they remained focused, ready to give their best to overcome the power and tactics of the almighty Irish side. Unfortunately it was not enough for the Toulouse players who, despite their bravery and good looks (according to my wife!), lost 32-23, trente-deux à vingt-trois pour les francophones! The after-match celebration saw me schmoozing with the players from both teams and quenching my thirst after talking so much French.

After a short flight back to England, I stayed this time with the Perpignan players in the hotel of the MK Dons Stadium as the Northampton Saints’ rugby ground was not big enough to accommodate all the fans. Perpignan were the underdogs and unfortunately for them, they did not manage to compete with the Saints’ strong side. Having lots of international players like Chris Ashton, Courtney Laws and Dylan Hartley did not help the French cause. Final score: 23-7.

There will be no French sides for the H cup Final this year but the Amlin Challenge Cup final promises to be a formidable spectacle. It will take place in Cardiff on Friday 20 May between Stade Français and Harlequins. I shall be once more 'la voix du rugby européen'.

Sébastien Coquelin