Saturday evening, the XV of France scored a memorable victory against New Zealand at the Stade de France. A success which allowed certain players to show themselves in a new light, like Gabin Villière, back in the selection after a long absence.
Former international winger Cédric Heymans, guest of Sud Radio, delivered a lucid and straightforward analysis of the Toulonnais' performance. Which was not spared by the supporters during the first period.
A risky defense, but an omnipresent player
From the start of his speech, Cédric Heymans highlighted a key action that left its mark: “Gabin Villière, you remove this somewhat suicidal defense which leads to the first try…“An error which cost the Blues points, but the former winger has not forgotten the qualities of Villière.”In the one against one, he is present; you can't take away from him being omnipresent and being a pain in the ruck zones.“An omnipresence on the pitch which has often been his strength. Although his defense may have been criticized by some supporters on social networks, he finished the match with 10 tackles.
A return under pressure against a strong opponent
After several months away from the field due to injuries, Villière carried on his shoulders the weight of an expected return in a meeting as crucial as against the All Blacks. “Imagine, he was absent from the France team, he comes back, he was under enormous pressure, he plays for the Blacks…“, recalled Heymans. Despite this pressure, the former winger believes that the Toulonnais responded: “For a back-to-school match, it's a perfectly decent match.“
If Cédric Heymans concedes that Gabin Villière has already delivered better copies in the past, he nevertheless recognizes his value for the Blues. The Toulonnais, which some compare to a “pitbull” for his aggressiveness and determination, remains an asset in the pressure game and the ruck phases, as proven by his club performances in Toulon.
A return that calls for others?
The Blues still have major challenges to face against Argentina this Friday evening, and Gabin Villière could be a key player in the upcoming games. His ability to adapt quickly and demonstrate resilience will be essential for the French XV to continue their momentum.
With this performance against the Blacks, Villière reminds us that he has never really been forgotten. A return which could mark a new start for him in the blue jersey.
