Mike Ruddock hailed his Worcester Warriors as a devastating four try burst against in-form Brive saw them march into the last four of the European Challenge Cup at sun drenched Sixways Stadium.
Marcel Garvey (2), Pat Sanderson and Alex Grove all grabbed the tries in a thrilling encounter live on Sky Sports.
Warriors next face an away trip to Bourgoin and Ruddock is keen for his side to produce more the same spirit as they held off a spirited French comeback to claim the big Euro win.
“It was like the South of France with the sun shining and the ball being moved around. It was a great game to watch and a little bit nerve jangling for the coaches,” said Ruddock.
“It was a big battle for us. Brive do not lose too many these days and they have had a good run. They are consistent and a top five side in France so it is a big scalp for us.
“It was tough and talking to the boys afterwards they said it was one of the most physical packs they have played against. In the scrum they could really feel the weight coming through and it was draining.
“It was a great start from us but the try they scored just before half-time gave them a really big boost. They scored straight after half time as well so suddenly the initiative was back with them. I had some concerns at the stage.
“We haven’t had too much luck this year, but we had a bit with a kick chase from that penalty from Alex Grove, he got the try and suddenly we were back in the driving seat and it gave us of a lift to keep tackling and going.
“A bit of brilliance from Marcel Garvey at the end but I have got to say top marks to the team, particularly on the back of losing Willie Walker who is cup tied and no Latham or Tuitupou.
“We are digging deep at the moment and it was great to see the bottle coming through.”
Warriors were able to play an attacking style of rugby in the encounter and Brive also opened up to trill the supporters inside the stadium.
And Ruddock admitted the game had a very different feel to the Guinness Premiership.
“It is a very different game in Europe. The Guinness Premiership battles are so difficult to play in, the analysis and the players know each other so well,” he added.
“As much as you want to get the ball wider in the league it is very difficult for time and space.
“Brive were an excellent team but we managed to get some time and space and we showed we have some class finishers.
“We have always looked to move the ball around it is just getting the chance to do it. Brive also wanted to play and they played some good rugby, they had a lot of threats and you can see why they are doing so well in the league.”
Ruddock was also delighted with his team’s defence as they repeatedly slammed the door shut on an adventurous Brive side that looked to play in all areas of the pitch.
He said: “We have been Jekyll and Hyde with our defence, we have had great highs and some lows.
“Our defence when it is working for us is very impressive. A couple of times we have fallen off it mentally and not been able to deliver but on this occasion we did.
“Even though Brive did cut us a few times that was more about their excellent play rather than our poor defence.”