After a victorious European interlude, it was time for the Top 14 on Saturday, December 21. In a magical Christmas atmosphere at the GGL Stadium, the Cistes hosted Racing 92, always a tough opponent, to try to continue their rise in the rankings…
The first half starts with an observation round between two teams who have come to engage in a big fight. Racing shoots first with a penalty from Le Garrec following a Montpellier foul. The MHR reacted with force and scored a first try through its captain Billy Vunipola. Reduced to 14 after Joshua Moorby's yellow card, the Cistes kept their backs and managed to keep their advantage in the score. Léo Coly, from 40 meters, widens the gap but a new mistake from Montpellier allows Racing to get back on track. At the break, the MHR leads timidly 8-6.
The second half will be just as indecisive despite the Cistes taking the lead with a try from Jordan Uelese. The Racingmen will throw all their strength into the battle and pick up the score thanks to the foot of Le Garrec (21-17). With their backs to the wall, the Cistes find themselves around what has been their strength for several matches: defensive solidarity and an enormous burst of energy. Gaël Fickou's teammates won't be able to do anything about it: the MHR will finally win after an unbreathable last few minutes: 21 to 17. Enough to end this year 2024 in style at the GGL Stadium and enjoy the fireworks, offered by the MHR Solidarity, with a little taste of victory!
Montpellier Hérault Rugby
Tries: Billy Vunipola 15', Jordan Uelese 49',
Transformations : Léo Coly 50’ ,
Penalties: Léo Coly 35', Léo Coly 46', Léo Coly 72',
Drops :
Racing 92
Tries: Ibrahim Diallo 69',
Transformations :
Penalty: Nolan Le Garrec 9', Nolan Le Garrec 36', Nolan Le Garrec 42', Nolan Le Garrec 64'
