Danny Wilson has paid tribute to Cory Allen after the centre returned to the Cardiff Blues starting team and responded with a man of the match performance.
The 23-year-old was left out of the Blues squad against the Ospreys and Bristol but returned with aplomb.
Allen created the first try for Blaine Scully, with an early break, and claimed two of his own in an impressive all round performance.
And Wilson was thrilled with the centre’s response at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park.
He said: “I was really pleased with Cory. We’ve spoken to him about a couple of bits in his game but we all know what an outstanding rugby player he is and what he is capable of.
“He really stood up and showed that. I’m thrilled he put that performance in and showed what he is capable of.
“Credit also to Matt Sherratt and the back line, to score from three first phase plays, off two scrums and one off a lineout, was outstanding.”
Wilson was also full of praise from another graduate from the Cardiff Blues academy – 20-year-old Seb Davies.
The young lock came off the bench early to replace James Down, making his first European appearance and did not look out of place.
Wilson added: “James Down going of far earlier than we wanted gave young Seb an opportunity and he deserves some credit because he’s gone out and played 70 minutes against a big French pack.
“He’s a young lad who has come through our academy season and it’s great for him to have that exposure but I’m also disappointed for James Down, he was really looking forward to the start.”
The Blues return to Guinness PRO12 action against the Scarlets on Friday. Tickets for the BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park clash are available by clicking here.