Shock in Deflandre this Sunday evening at the end of the 7th day of Top 14. The Bordeaux leader challenges the third on his lawn. A poster that looks like the final stages like the one between Stade Toulousain and UBB. Can we expect a similar result, namely success for the visitors against the Maritimes?
We would be tempted to say no. And this, even if the truth on the ground is sometimes not that of the media. However, the context of this match is very different from the one which saw Bru’s men dominate those of Mola. Firstly because the Girondins were excited like cuckoos at the idea of take their revenge against the red and black.
Revengeful Rochelais
And what could be better than inflicting your first home defeat on Toulouse since 2022 to partially heal the scar left by the one-sided final. Additional motivation that could be lacking when challenging Ronan O’Gara’s protégés. Who are also in a very different “mindset” from the Toulouse residents. They who remain on a defeat against Bayonne at San Sebastian. The kind of setback that doesn’t please the Irish coach at all.
You lose credibility, respect.” he said after the meeting. We dare to imagine the speech of the Irish technician this week. The “Fucking” must have flown. Certain elements undoubtedly took it for their rank. While others will want to show their true colors. The people of Bordeaux know what to expect. And that could sting against a team undefeated at home this season but especially for almost a year.
The last setback against La Rochelle supporters dates back to October 29, 2023 when Castres came (24-27). Subsequently, the Maritimes were in trouble several times. As during the reception of Bayonne two days (18-15) after that of the CO. Or the following week against Bordeaux (25-21) after being led 21 to 8. But Alldritt and his teammates held the bar to invite themselves into the semi-finals.
The Bordeaux leader wants to remain so
We will still have to resist the onslaught of the visitors to reach the last four. However, nothing says that beating UBB will be easy. The Bordelais have not won since 2022 (8-12). But they caused problems for the locals last year with a solid lineup. It was also the first Gironde victory on La Rochelle soil since… 2014! The UBB did not make the trip empty by lining up its Tricolores. Bordeaux even led 9 to 8 to the lemons. Penaud and Depoortere scored in the second act.
If the center is injured and out, we can imagine that Bru will field a competitive team by adjusting the rotation. One thing is certain, a simple victory will not allow Stade Rochelais to take first place at UBB. Because five lengths separate the two formations. While Stade Toulousain, 2nd, is in ambush.
