Ashley Clarke scored a try in vain for Racing Metro
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Matches: London Wasps 18 - 13 Racing Metro

Tournaments/Tours: European Challenge Cup

Teams: England | France | London Wasps | Racing Metro

Dave Walder was the hero for Wasps as they got their European Challenge Cup campaign off to a successful start at Adams Park.

It was an often testing afternoon for the twice Heineken Cup winners against wealthy Paris club Racing-Metro 92, with Walder's boot securing an 18-13 win.

Walder, who can expect an extended run in the No.10 shirt with Danny Cipriani facing six weeks out injured, slotted three penalties in each half. Wasps trailed by a point at half-time, conceding the game's solitary try to Racing-Metro flanker Ashley Clarke, but Walder kept his cool and secured an all-important home win.

The French club included star signing, South African World Cup winner Francois Steyn, who kicked a penalty, while substitute Julien Saubade also slotted a penalty and fly-half Jonathan Wisniewski converted Clarke's touchdown.

Any hopes that they had of pressing home their half-time advantage were hampered by a yellow card for lock Jone Nailiko after only 40 minutes. With their side shorn of leading lights Sebastien Chabal, Lionel Nallet and Andrew Mehrtens, Racing were always up against it and will likely be pleased with a battling display.

A losing bonus point could be important in the final shake-up for Racing, especially as only the five pool winners are guaranteed quarter-final places.