The “wheelchair rugby league” section of the Montauban Handisport club was once again at the top of the bill this season.
Indeed, the Pandas “one” team participated, for the 3rd consecutive time, in the final of the French Elite 1 championship.
After finishing 1st in the regular phase (2 defeats out of 10 matches), and having beaten the Basques of Aingirak Euskadi in the semi-final after a match of rare intensity, having shaken the G. Pompidou multi-sports hall , the Montalbanais obtained the right to compete for the national title on the home ground of the Catalans Dragons, reigning champions, in Cabestany, on June 16.
In the furnace of the gymnasium, in front of more than 400 spectators, including at least 80 raging Montalbanese supporters, the players had to bow once again, but with honors!
3rd final, 3rd scenario…
Far from being dominated by their prestigious opponents, they competed on fundamentals throughout the meeting.
But the lack of efficiency, especially during numerical superiority in our favor, was fatal to the Montalbanais.
Conversely, the Catalans were devilishly realistic and knew how to finish off their strong moments.
However, the players had the opportunity to return to the match 10 minutes from time, with only 14 points difference.
But it was written that the Montalbanais would stumble to the end against an iron defense.
In the end, defeat 36 to 22, with the feeling of having lived up to the event and of having fallen with weapons in hand!
Once again, a fully successful season, with this lost final which demonstrated the progress shown by the players throughout the season, who will however be able to be satisfied with having been the only French and European team to inflict a defeat on the Catalan Dragons.
Reserve team stopped in Elite 2 semi-final
Team 2, entered in the French Elite 2 championship, had to lose at home against Toulon in the semi-final.
However, for half the season, the players were in the lead.
But fate has been very harsh on this group with the long-term injuries of two key players, weakening the group’s consistency and confidence.
However, they found the mental resources to finish the regular phase well and obtain 2nd place, ensuring the semi-final at home.
Thus, despite these two defeats to which must be added the elimination in the semi-final of the French Cup against Avignon, the club officials would like to thank and congratulate all the players, coaches, supporters, managers, volunteers, families , partners and supporters for the commitment and support given throughout the season.
