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 overwhelming victory against Racing 92, UBB will however have to deal with a “diminished” team. Some executives will be missing for different reasons. Forcing the staff to make some adjustments. Without forgetting the turnover, logical after three days.
Indeed, Damian Penaud, sparkling last week with a hat-trick, will be put to rest, just like 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 scoresheet. It remains to be seen whether they will start the match or if they will have a finisher role.
Added to these strategic absences are Connor Sa, Nans Ducuing, Paul Abadie, Zaccharie Affane and Joey Carbery, 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 injury. UBB will also have to cope without Guido Petti, still involved with Argentina in the Rugby Championship, and Jacques Nguimbous, who had ankle surgery.
This cascade of absences risks weighing heavily against a Stade Toulousain in full confidence, undefeated since the start of the season. The reigning French champion, already formidable on his lawnwill be keen to continue its momentum. And to exploit as much as possible the flaws of a Bordeaux team which does not make the trip with all its best assets.
However, despite these numerous absences, the 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 Toulouse who have not yet shown any sign of weakness.. One thing is certain, this clash at the summit promises to be thrilling.
