Bristol won three of four Champions Cup group games, but that was only enough for third place in their group. Once they were drawn away to six-time winners Toulouse, they faced a mammoth challenge to reach the quarter-finals.
Although captain Fitz Harding’s try gave Bristol the perfect start, they conceded six before the break to go in 40-7 down with the game all but done.
The Bears rallied during the second 40 minutes, scoring through Kalaveti Ravouvou, James Williams and Noah Heward, but Toulouse added another two of their own.
“We started off really well and we talked before the game about the way that they play, we can’t give them anything for free, and unfortunately every turnover we made they scored – four tries off our mistakes,” Lam said.
“Then we were trying to get a grip hold on the game, we’re chasing the game, and it’s difficult.
“By the time we got into half-time, they [the players] knew, it was like ‘let’s show a bit of pride for our fans that have come out’.”
