The 15th day of Pro D2 kept all its promises: Grenobleas boss, finishes fall champion, whileOyonnax et Soyaux-Angoulême scored points before the break. Back to the highlights.
Grenoble, at the top of its art
The people of Grenoble continue to fly through the season. Traveling to Nice, the FCG offered an offensive festival with a large victory (18-49). Trailing for a while in the first half, the Isérois accelerated after the break, carried by an untenable Wilfried Hulleu. The winger hit hard again with several tries, including his eighth of the season. With this success, Grenoble sits comfortably at the top of the rankings, with the best attack and flamboyant play on offer.
Oyonnax, finally deliverance outside
After several unsuccessful attempts, Oyonnax won their first victory away from home by beating Montauban (30-33). The game was close until the end, with penalties from Zack Holmes in the final minutes sealing the deal. This close victory allows the Oyomen to regain some confidence after a complicated first half of the season.
Soyaux-Angoulême, a demonstration after the break
At home, Soyaux-Angoulême overthrew Nevers (35-10) with an impressive second half. Trailing at the break, the Charentais completely changed their face after returning from the locker room, stringing together four tries, including a double from George Tilsley. With this improved victory, the SAXV ends the year in the top 6 and sends a clear message to its competitors.
Colomiers dominates Biarritz in a close duel
In an expected clash between two contenders for the final stages, Colomiers took over Biarritz at home (29-20). The Columérins quickly took the lead thanks to tries from Caleb Timu, Ugo Pacome and Rodrigo Marta.
Despite Biarritz's outbursts, notably Cornell Du Preez's try, the locals were able to maintain their lead in the second half. Martin Alonso-Muñoz added a fourth try, while the Columérin defense was solid in critical moments, preventing the Basques from getting back into the match.
Highlights of the day
- Mont-de-Marsan offered an offensive festival against Béziers (47-32), confirming its solidity in the race for the final stages.
- Aurillac beat Dax in a tight duel (27-22), allowing the Cantaliens to breathe a little in the fight for maintenance.
- Provence Rugbyalthough victorious against Valence Romans (34-24), failed to finish with the offensive bonus, despite a fiery first half.
An end of the year that redistributes the cards
With Grenoble as the undisputed leader, the fight for qualifying places promises to be intense in 2025. Teams like Oyonnax or Soyaux-Angoulême show that they have the weapons to shake up the hierarchy.
After this last day of the year, the Pro D2 continues to offer us suspense, surprises and beautiful games, enough to impatiently wait for the resumption in January!
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 Brennus of 1993 and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
