ASM Clermont is preparing for a perilous trip to La Rochelledriven by a positive dynamic and a defense that has been gaining strength for several weeks.
Barbed wire defense
Since their victory in Lyon a month ago, the Clermontois have clearly raised their voice, particularly in defense. With only 8.3 points conceded per match over the last three meetingsUrios’ men display a newfound solidity. This transformation was marked by a remarkable performance against Treviso, held to zero points, a feat that Clermont had not achieved since 2013.
Julien Laïrle, defense coach, explains this turning point: “We understood that we could not hope to win by conceding thirty or forty points. We had to change our mindset, and today, it’s starting to pay off.” The result is a more structured, precise and efficient team in combat phases.
Fischer, the key to renewal
Among the strong men of this rise, Alexandre Fischer stands out. Back at 100%, the third row shines with his impact in the rucks and his ability to scratch the balls. “With players like Fischer, we recover more balls, we are more rigorous in the tackles. Everyone is connected, and that changes everything,” rejoices Laïrle (Rugby Rama).
This renewed form can also be explained by the in-depth work carried out during the pre-season. The efforts made by the players, sometimes invisible at the start of the year, are now bearing fruit.
La Rochelle, a major challenge
Despite this progress, the challenge awaiting Clermont remains immense. La RochelleEuropean champion, has nothing more to prove and is still formidable at home. The Rochelais are solid on all lines, and the Jaunards will have to play at their best level to hope to compete.
This match represents a real test for ASM, which dreams of a lasting return to the Top 6. Urios’ men showed that they had the weapons to surprise, but they will have to hold out over time against a of the most consistent teams in the championship.
Do the Jaunards have what it takes to bring down La Rochelle? Response on the ground, Saturday at 2:30 p.m.
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