In the columns of Midi Olympique, Stuart Lancaster has made no secret of his ambitions for Racing 92 ahead of the clash against Harlequins this Saturday. But on the sidelines of the meeting, a major question persists: the Créteil field. Not really an ally for the Ile-de-France residents…
A lawn far from ideal
Since the start of the season, Créteil has become the temporary theater for Racing 92 matches, deprived of Défense Arena. And the least we can say is that this heavy and difficult pitch does not benefit the Racingmen, used to developing fast rugby on a synthetic pitch.
As Stuart Lancaster recognized: “The forwards leave a lot of energy there, yes. It's not the pitch of the Stade de France or Twickenham, but a rugby team must know how to adapt to all surfaces. » An observation that resonates with the recent defeat against Toulouse (17-21), where the Ile-de-France residents suffered the pace in the first period.
Harlequins: a solid opponent
For the start of this new European campaign, Racing faces a Harlequins team also looking for redemption. Recently beaten at home by Bristol (24-48), the Quins will be able to count on the return of Marcus Smith, a formidable X factor. “It can change a lot of things in their game,” Lancaster warned. He also highlights the rise in power of English clubs thanks to the reduction in the number of teams in the Premiership: “There is more talent in each of the Premiership squads. »
While Racing is struggling to find consistency in the Top 14 this season, the Champions Cup could represent an opportunity to restart the machine. “The Top 14 has been difficult this season. […] Changing competitions for a few weeks is not a bad thing. But we want to do well in both tournaments. We don't prioritize one or the other. »
The clash against Harlequins has a particular flavor for the English Racing players, as Lancaster points out: “It’s also special for the English players in our squad. » Although Owen Farrell, who recently had adductor surgery, is not yet available, his trainer assures that the return of the emblematic opener is near: “Owen will be available after Christmas, I think. »
Between a capricious pitch, a formidable opponent and checkered performances, Racing 92 will not have an easy task this weekend. But with the character displayed in the second half against Toulouse, the men of Lancaster could find the necessary resources to shine on the European scene.
