Clermont vs. Saracens: Score, Reaction from European Champions Cup Semi-Final

Saracens put together a valiant effort but lost 13-9 against Clermont in the first European Champions Cup semi-final Saturday, as the French side powered its way to victory thanks to a great defensive effort and a solitary try early in the second half.

People were expecting a grinding affair between two very physical teams, and Saturday's clash didn't disappoint. Defending champions Toulon and Leinster will meet Sunday in the second semi-final.

Rugby player Andy Goode believed fans of the Premiership had to overcome their allegiances in the face of Saturday's clash, with Clermont and defending champions Toulon favoured to advance to the final:

"

Whatever @premrugby team you support, today we should all support @Saracens in their @ChampionsCup semi final!

— Andy Goode (@AndyGoode10) April 18, 2015"

Backed by a vocal crowd, Clermont came out firing early and nearly took the lead inside three minutes, as fly-half Brock James attempted a drop goal that just missed the target.

The early goings of the match were filled with minor mistakes, as Clermont gave up a handful of dumb penalties and Saracens failed to take advantage. The tournament's official Twitter account shared this spectacular image of a line-out:

Mako Vunipola did a fantastic job winning ground with a beautiful carry, leading to a lot of action in Clermont's part of the pitch. Charlie Hodgson eventually converted the pressure into points with a drop goal, giving the visitors an early lead.

BT Sport's Nick Mullins noted the early deficit had a big impact on the crowd, who suddenly fell quiet:

Clermont tried to answer right away and worked the ball to within three meters, but Napolioni Nalaga was pushed into touch before he managed to put the ball down. TV replays showed Chris Ashton didn't use his arms to stop the Fijian, however, and Clermont should have been given a penalty try.

TDF's Brendan Gallagher was disappointed the officials failed to pick up such an error:

The hosts were starting to take over possession, and minutes later, James scored the first points for his team via penalty.

Saracens tried to answer right back after great work from Ashton, but Hodgson failed to convert the penalty, keeping the score tied at 3-3.

As predicted, Saturday's match turned into a grinding defensive struggle, even if both teams displayed plenty of attacking intent. Hodgson redeemed himself just before half-time, giving Sarries the lead with another penalty. The team's Twitter account liked what it was seeing:

He had one more attempt to add to his tally from the exact same spot but directed his final kick wide, as Saracens went into half-time up 6-3.

The Times' Owen Slot was impressed with the visitors' performance:

Clermont returned to the pitch desperate for a better showing in the second half and almost immediately scored the first try of the match, as Wesley Fofana found himself on the end of a delightful chip from James.

The score had exactly the effect you'd expect on the fans:

Following the try, space started to open up for both teams, but it didn't immediately lead to chances. A multitude of substitutions didn't help, either, as the pace of the match dropped a bit. Owen Farrell pulled Saracens within one with the closest of penalties, setting up a thrilling final 15 minutes.

It was pivotal for both teams to keep their composure, and Sarries made the mistake of being too eager in the ruck. The official spotted a hold, and James added three more points via penalty to make the score 13-9.

Clermont's defence was nearly flawless in their own territory, easily keeping Saracens at bay as time started to run out. A strong scrum yielded a penalty, which was kicked into touch, effectively ending the match.

As reported by Rugby Week, coach Franck Azema was never worried about Saracens' history or tendency to play his club close:

"

As far as I'm concerned, we're on another page.

We played them twice this season and tomorrow (Saturday) it will be yet another context in the knock-out stages.

We're also working differently this season. I've always said that we've built on the bedrock of the past, there are no worries in that respect but we're working differently now.

"

His confidence turned out to be just, as Clermont survived a difficult match against a tough team to book their spot in the inaugural European Champions Cup final.

Favourites Toulon and Leinster will do battle on Sunday, with an all-French final looking likely at this point.

Follow @ReverschPass.