The context
Frustrated last Saturday by the boot of Mateo Garcia at the end of the match, the Bayonnais had to settle for a point despite a very good performance on Bordeaux soil (30-27). The desire to redeem themselves is all the stronger for the Basques who will be able to count on the 39,500 supporters of Anoeta to push them in the effort. With two home victories against the USAP and the MHR, the march rises with the reception of the Maritimes in San Sebastián.
For Yellow and Black, the trend is confirmation. Authors of a very good start to the season, the Rochelais travel to Spain to confirm their improved victory against LOU and the good performance in Creteil against Racing. A big fight awaits the Rochelais at the Reale Arena, who will once again have to demonstrate the power of the pack and demonstrate rigor in the defensive phases. The Maritimes are confident and counting on this trip to continue their momentum before the reception of the UBB, current co-leader of this Top 14.
The match
On a pitch that has not been successful for several seasons, the Bayonnais started well, very well. Joris Segond quickly opened the score with his right foot (3-0, 3′), followed by two tries – in quick succession – scored by Aurélien Callandret then Facundo Bosch (17-0, 9′). The locals were in the game, well in the game. Especially since Joris Segond added three more points to their team following an offside by Antoine Hastoy (20-0, 14′).
And even if the second part of this first period allowed the Yellow and Black to show a different face in sequences, the Bayonnais kept their backs, even after being reduced to 14 for ten minutes. A few seconds from the siren, Cereal Master took advantage of an advantage to make the hole, in the corner (25-0, 40′). At the break, Ronan O’Gara’s players were logically leading.
Upon returning from the locker room, as often since the start of the season, the maritime staff did a lot of changes. New blood, therefore, which brought a new dynamic, without necessarily materializing on the scoreboard. Especially since, behind, Camille Lopez took advantage of a situation in the 22 to score Bayonne’s fourth try after a big breakthrough from Manu Tuilagi (30-0, 50′).
The last half hour, made up of approximations on both sides, saw the Rochelais score their first points of the afternoon via d’Aleksandre Kunteliaupwind (30-7, 72′). And also allowed Rowing to confirm its good performance of the day with a penalty try after the siren (37-7, 80′). 80 difficult minutes therefore, which will have to be used next Sunday for the reception of the Bordeaux neighbor. Rebound goal.
The sequel
The next challenge? A big shock. And for good reason, the Rochelais will welcome – for the first time this season in prime time – their neighbors from Bordeaux, for a nice duel in perspective. Kick-off at 9:05 p.m., Sunday October 20 at Marcel Deflandre!
