Widnes' Challenge cup ambitions ended in embarrassing fashion at the hands of French part-timers Toulouse.

The Super League strugglers failed to cope with the sweltering heat in the Stade de Minimes or the attacking verve and ferocious tackling of Justin Morgan's under-estimated side.

Early first-half tries from livewire full-back Sam Murphy, pacy centre Fabrice Estebanez and hooker Cedric Gay put Toulouse into a 20-0 lead after only 21 minutes.

Widnes replied through winger Andrew Emelio and Bruce Johnson late in the half to reduce the deficit but simple handling errors made a Vikings comeback unlikely.

Toulouse struck again early in the second half, prop Nicolas Faure showing quick feet to stop another gap in the Widnes defence and restore their sizeable lead.

Widnes' attack finally found its rhythm with hardworking replacement hooker Mark Smith bursting through to score but Toulouse continued to threaten every time the visitors handed them possession.

Further tries again from Gay and former Widnes loanee Tommy Gallagher put the result beyond doubt and sent shockwaves through the Super League.