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Saracens' winning run under Brendan Venter came to an end with a 31-23 defeat to Toulon in the European Challenge Cup.

The Premiership leaders found Philippe Saint-Andre's international all-stars too hot to handle as they were outscored by three tries to two at Stade Felix Mayol.

It took the English side almost an hour to breach the home whitewash as the Saracens pack turned on the power to push over Wikus van Heerden.

But by that time, Toulon had already scored three times and had built themselves an insurmountable lead.

England World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson scored 16 points with four penalties and two conversions and was involved in the flowing move that led to the first try of the match by Gabi Lovobalavu after 27 minutes.

Lovobalavu's second try came just five minutes later when Luke Rooney took a high ball which was destined for the hands of Justin Marshall.

Rooney fed Joe van Niekerk, who in turn found the Fijian who had the power to score.

The home side scored their third try just two minutes into the second period.

Tom May had the easy run in after Tongan Christian Loamanu cantered down the left wing to leave Saracens trailing by 16 points.

A late interception try from Richard Haughton made for a frantic finale as Saracens pushed for a losing bonus point.

Derick Hougaard kicked three penalties and two conversions but his side left Franceempty-handed.

A plus point for Saracens was that England captain Steve Borthwick returned to action after his recent eye injury and played the full match.

PA Sport