This Saturday evening, Castres et Bordeaux-Bègles face each other at the Pierre-Fabre stadium in a match that smells like gunpowder. Between ranking issues and end-of-year dynamics, the two teams are preparing for a duel that is as close as it is exciting.
Bordeaux-Bègles: making do with those who are absent
L’UBB arrives in Tarn with a squad far from being complete. The absences of internationals Maxime Luca, Marko Gazzotti et Louis Bielle-Biarreyforced to a week of rest, are added to the injury of Jonny Grayunavailable until February. Suffice to say that the Gironde staff will have to tinker to put together their team.
But the UBB has not said its last word. After resounding victories in European Cup against Leicester and Ulster, Bordeaux shows that it can adapt and perform. With a polished offensive game and players capable of pulling off brilliant shots, the Bordelais remain a serious threat, even diminished.
Castres: defending your territory
Opposite, the Castres Olympic is in a completely different dynamic. Undefeated at home this season, the Tarnais have made the Pierre-Fabre stadium an impregnable fortress. Their recent success against Munster in the European Cup was a reminder that they know how to excel in key moments.
The pillar Quentin Walcker sums up the group’s state of mind well: “We know that a big match awaits us, but we are ready. UBB is a very solid team with spectacular play, but at home, we have our chances,” he told Rugby Rama.
A tense evening
This end-of-year shock has it all: two ambitious teams, a lively audience and major stakes. Bordeaux wants to continue to shine despite the absentees, while Castres intends to finish the year undefeated at home.
Kick-off will be at 9:05 p.m., and this duel promises high-level rugby.
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the 1993 Brennus and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
