On Sunday, all eyes will be on Ernest-Wallon for the long-awaited clash between Stade Toulousain and Union Bordeaux-Bègles, as part of this 4th day of Top 14.
After their crushing victory against Racing 92, UBB will however have to deal with a “diminished” team. Some executives will be missing for various reasons.. Forcing the staff to make some adjustments. Not to mention the turnover, logical after three days.
Indeed, Damian Penaud, who shone last week with a hat-trick, will be rested, as will Nicolas Depoortere, Romain Buros and the young Marko Gazzotti according to our colleagues at South West. But we can think that leaders like Lucu and Jalibert will be on the match sheet. It remains to be seen whether they will start the match or play a finishing role.
In addition to these strategic absences, there are Connor Sa, Nans Ducuing, Paul Abadie, Zaccharie Affane and Joey Carbery, who are injured or unavailable. The suspension of Lachlan Swinton, after his red card against Racing 92, adds to the list.
To make matters worse, Adam Coleman will be sidelined for four to five weeks with a calf injuryUBB will also have to do without Guido Petti, still involved with Argentina in the Rugby Championship, and Jacques Nguimbous, who underwent ankle surgery.
This cascade of absences risks weighing heavily against a Stade Toulousain full of confidence, unbeaten since the start of the season. The reigning French champion, already formidable on his lawnwill be keen to continue on this momentum. And to exploit to the maximum the weaknesses of a Bordeaux team that is not making the trip with all its best assets.
However, despite these numerous absences, UBB showed that it could compete with the best, relying on a solid collective and a formidable attack. It remains to be seen whether this will be enough to shake up the Toulouse team, who have not yet shown any signs of weakness.One thing is certain, this summit clash promises to be thrilling.
